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Time Business News
3 days ago
- Time Business News
Umrah Package by Bus from Dubai
Thinking about performing Umrah but want a budget-friendly and enriching experience? The Umrah package by bus from Dubai is gaining popularity among pilgrims who seek a spiritual journey without breaking the bank. Let's explore why this option might be perfect for you. Let's face it—traveling by air can be expensive, especially with family. Bus packages offer an affordable alternative without compromising your spiritual goals. It's the best way to save money while still making that blessed journey. Today's long-distance coaches aren't the same as they were a decade ago. With air conditioning, reclining seats, and regular breaks, the ride can be more relaxing than you might expect. Plus, you get to see the ever-changing desert landscapes on the way to Saudi Arabia! Traveling in a group creates a strong sense of unity. You'll likely meet fellow pilgrims with similar goals, and that shared journey often builds beautiful bonds. One of the biggest hassles in planning Umrah is dealing with visa paperwork. Good news—your package usually includes full Umrah visa processing handled by experts. The bus package typically includes round-trip transportation from Dubai to Makkah and back, with comfortable coaches operated by licensed travel providers. Accommodation near the Haram is arranged for your convenience. You don't need to worry about last-minute bookings or surprise charges. You'll have a guide who knows the rituals of Umrah inside and out. Whether it's your first or fifth time, a guide makes everything easier. Most Umrah by bus from Dubai packages last about 7 to 10 days. The schedule is carefully planned to balance travel, rest, and worship. Expect a journey of around 18–20 hours each way, with multiple rest stops for food, prayer, and refreshment. The journey is long, but it's broken into manageable parts. All buses are fully air-conditioned to ensure a cool and comfortable ride through the desert. Think USB charging ports, reclining seats, and even entertainment screens on some buses. You'll be more comfortable than you think. Trained drivers, seat belts, and regular maintenance ensure your safety on the road. Packages typically include 3- or 4-star hotels within walking distance to Haram. That means more time in prayer and less time commuting. Some packages offer daily meals—usually breakfast and dinner—to simplify your stay. This package is ideal for budget-conscious pilgrims, large families, and first-timers looking for a structured and supported journey. You'll need: Valid passport Emirates ID Passport-size photographs Vaccination certificate (usually including COVID-19) Choose a trusted travel agency. Submit your documents. Pay the deposit or full amount. Receive confirmation and itinerary. Attend a pre-departure briefing. Carry snacks and water. Dress comfortably. Keep your documents in a travel pouch. Stay patient—delays can happen. Make dhikr during the long ride. While air packages are quicker, bus Umrah packages offer affordability and a more communal experience. Choose what suits your needs and budget. An Umrah package by bus from Dubai is more than just a way to get to Makkah—it's a shared spiritual experience, a journey of patience and faith. If you're looking to perform Umrah without spending a fortune, this could be your perfect path. 1. How long does the bus journey from Dubai to Makkah take? Approximately 18–20 hours, including rest stops and border clearance. 2. Is a visa included in the Umrah bus package? Yes, most packages include full visa assistance and processing. 3. Are meals included in the package? Some packages offer daily meals, while others may offer optional meal plans. 4. Can families travel together on the same bus? Absolutely! Many bus packages cater to families and group travelers. 5. Is it safe and comfortable for elderly pilgrims? Yes, the buses are modern and comfortable, but elderly travelers should consult their doctor and choose premium packages with extra support. More information: Umrah package by bus TIME BUSINESS NEWS
What's On
3 days ago
- What's On
9 useful tips for new Abu Dhabi residents, from What's On's readers
Welcome to our wonderful city… 3 of 12 In Abu Dhabi, a 100km/h speed limit means you can drive at a maximum of 100km/h (Not 120km/h). Learn the parking laws and system Even if you have a driving license from your home country, you will eventually (and usually very soon after arrival) need a UAE driver's license to legally operate a vehicle here in Dubai. Some nationalities will be able to do a straight transfer (this includes most of Europe, the US and Canada, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, Turkey and a few more nations, check with the RTA or a full list). You'll need an Emirates ID and an RTA eye test but the whole process is relatively straightforward. People holding licenses from other countries will have to pass a driving test before obtaining a UAE license, though there's now a way to avoid the previously compulsory lessons via the Golden Chance scheme. Get yourself a ClassPass. It’s great to discover fitness classes and sessions. Also, join relevant communities on WhatsApp and Facebook â€' there are plenty. Hit your travel goals because there are amazing deals on offer, and the UAE's location is ideal for travellers Put yourself out there so you can find like-minded people. Abu Dhabi is a great city but can get lonely if you don't make the effort. Go out and explore the city. Every corner of the city has something to see and do, all usually within 20 minutes of each other Respect the law and follow the rules - both are simple and easy to do in Abu Dhabi so you can live peacefully. Pay yourself first, before you spend it all on the amazing restaurants and entertainment Reliable sources tell us Abu Dhabi's population hit 3.79 million last year (2024), an incredible 83 per cent rise compared to numbers recorded in 2011. And we don't expect that trend to end anytime soon, so here are 9 useful tips for new Abu Dhabi residents, from our own readers. Images: What's On archive, unsplash, Shutterstock > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Gulf Today
3 days ago
- Gulf Today
Dubai Airports prepares to support pilgrims for this year Hajj
Dubai Airports has launched an extensive operational plan at Dubai International (DXB) to facilitate the smooth departure and return of pilgrims participating in Hajj 2025. This initiative underscores the airport's commitment to providing a seamless and supportive airport experience during one of the busiest periods of the year. This year, approximately 3,100 pilgrims are set to depart from DXB on 28 dedicated flights operated by Emirates, flydubai, Saudia, and flynas. The official delegation from the Government of Dubai will commence their journey on the first official Hajj flight from Terminal 3 on June 1. To ensure a streamlined experience, Dubai Airports, in collaboration with the oneDXB community, including Dubai Police, General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai (GDRFA), Dubai Customs, Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, dnata, and airline partners, has implemented a number of measures. These measures include the provision of dedicated check-in counters across Terminals 1, 2, and 3. Prayer rooms and changing facilities are available in all terminals for Ihram preparation. Multilingual Guest Experience Ambassadors and Hajj Committee support desks are also present. Designated baggage carousels have been allocated for the secure handling of Zamzam water. Pilgrims are advised to arrive at the airport at least four hours prior to departure and to carry all required travel documents, including passport, Emirates ID, Hajj permit, and vaccination certificate. Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Terminal Operations at Dubai Airports, said, "Through the efforts of our people and the oneDXB community, we want to ensure every pilgrim departs with confidence and returns with ease.' The pilgrims are expected to return between June 9 and 12. Preparations are in place to provide a warm welcome, coordinated baggage support, and a small token of appreciation upon arrival. The Hajj season coincides with the summer travel peak and the Eid Al Adha holiday, during which DXB anticipates a significant increase in guest volumes. WAM
What's On
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Last chance: Dubai Miracle Garden closes its doors next week
Dubai Miracle Garden is one of our favourite outdoor attractions in the city. And if you want to visit, you have just a few days left, as the park is closing its doors for the summer at the end of May. The most colourful space (and most likely, the sweetest smelling) in Dubai announced that the garden will be closing on Saturday, May 31, 2025. The garden is home to millions of blooms and is open daily: On Saturday and Sunday, it's open from 9am to 11pm, and from Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm. But don't be alarmed… Once the summer has passed and the cooler weather has once again graced the city, the gates will reopen. This usually happens at the end of October or early November. Dubai Miracle Garden is the world's largest display of flora and fauna, with the 72,000 square meter destination home to over 50 million flowers in 120 varieties. If you're still keen to get down to Dubai Miracle before this season ends, you can book tickets online here. Tickets cost Dhs100 for adults (over 12 years old), Dhs85 for children three to 12, and those under the age of three can enter for free (Emirates ID or an official ID will need to be shown as proof). *10 indoor attractions in Dubai that will pop on your Instagram* So, when will Dubai Miracle Garden reopen for the new season? We currently do not have the reopening dates for Dubai Miracle Garden's next season, but the dates are usually announced on social media towards the end of summer. We will be keeping our eyes on the news, and we will let you know as soon as we know. The garden, which opened in 2013, transforms and adds new floral arrangements, sculptures, and more each season. No matter how many times you visit, you will be amazed. In 2016, the attraction also won a Guinness World Record for the largest flower arrangement/structure forming the shape of the Airbus A380, pictured above. Dubai Miracle Garden, Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand, 9am to 9pm weekdays, 9am to 11pm weekends, until Sun June 4. Dhs100 for adults, Dhs85 for children under 12, children under 3 are free. Tel: (04) 422 8902. Images: Socials > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Time Out Dubai
22-05-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
5 Emirates ID perks you should know
If you live in the UAE, then you must have an Emirates ID (it's a legal requirement). In fact, Emirates IDs are issued by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship to all UAE citizens and residents. But your EID holds more power than you may think. Not only does it store 20 vital details about you, but it can be used for some pretty handy day-to-day things too. Here are five ways that your ID could make your life easier (and less expensive in some cases). You might also like: How to check the status of your Emirates ID Emirates ID perks and how to use them You can withdraw money from an ATM Several banks in the UAE allow customers to withdraw money by using their Emirates ID. You must bank with the bank and different banks have different rules. If you are an Emirates NBD customer. You can withdraw cash with your EID if you have the Emirates NBD mobile app on your phone. You'll use the app to generate a code that you'll then use at the ATM to withdraw the amount you need. Mashreq Bank allows customers to open accounts, pay their bills, update their personal information and withdraw and deposit cash by just showing their Emirates ID. You might also like: The secret to a cheaper AC bill? Set it to this temperature When using a Mashreq ATM, the customer's existing bank cards will appear on the ATM screen, allowing them to choose from a number of options including cash withdrawal, local and international transfers and chequebook and statement requests. Emirates IDs can also be used for cash withdrawals and transfers through Al Hilal Banks' ATMs. You can pay for fuel at petrol stations If you want to use your Emirates ID to pay for fuel you need to download an ADNOC Wallet. Once you have the app, your Emirates ID is linked to it and you can add money to your account. When filling up your petrol tank at ADNOC petrol stations you can insert your EID into the card payment slot and follow the on-screen instructions to pay for your fuel. You can also use your EID to pay for stuff at ADNOC Oasis convenience stores and car washes if you have an ADNOC Wallet. You can use it as your health insurance card Don't worry if you forget your health insurance card during your next visit to the doctor's clinic as you can show your Emirates ID. Medical service providers can use EIDs to process medical insurance. You might also like: How to get medical insurance in Dubai — what you need to know You can use it at DXB airport's e-gates Smart gates are an automated self-service border control system. They use facial recognition technology to identify travellers and can be found at Terminal 3 of DXB airport. Smart gates match faces to data connected to immigration databases which will know if the traveller is a UAE National, GCC National, UAE resident or a visa-on-arrival guest. You might also like: Travelling soon? Top lounges anyone can access at Dubai International Airport If you want to use your Emirates ID to head through the smart gate then all you need to do is register your Emirates ID with the ICP, swipe your Emirates ID card and look into the green light at the gate. You must remove glasses and hats before passing through. And get loads of discounts Probably the most fun aspect of holding an Emirates ID is that it can unlock discounts across the UAE. Several hotels and attractions offer cut-price deals to residents and all you have to do is flash your EID. More things to do in Dubai 10 things to do at Dubai International Airport Manicures, workouts, gaming, great food and more 13 free things to do outdoors at night in Dubai Explore Dubai after dark without spending any money The best dining deals and offers in Dubai 2024 Don't miss these incredible discounts across the city today
