Although the Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, it's only compulsory for those who are financially able to afford to go. Umrah is a lesser form of Hajj, meaning that you do not have to do it as a matter of obligation. For UK citizens, it is easier to go via Umrah packages from UK-based travel agents. They make adequate arrangements.
Financial capability means that you are able to cover travel, accommodation and all other requirements during your Hajj or Umrah. If you do not have sufficient funds to meet your family's needs, Umrah (or Hajj for sure) is not compulsory for you. At this point, it is to be duly noted that it is acceptable to accept a free trip to Hajj as a gift or Sadaqah, provided your dependents are sufficiently provided for.
Money in Saudi Arabia
The currency used in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is Saudi Riyal. This is denominated in the following denominations:
Banknotes denominated in 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 riyal notes.
Changing money at home It is a good idea to have a small amount of money changed in your home country before you embark on your trip. Bring a minimum of 500 SR with you. This will enable you to meet immediate expenses on arrival in Saudi Arabia until you are accustomed to changing money on the spot. It also saves you the time and hassle of going to the bank, which tends to be busy during some seasons. Exchange rates in Saudi Arabia vary depending on where you exchange your money. There are several banks and money exchange offices in Makkah and Madinah, all of which will offer you roughly the same exchange rate. You will need to go to a Money Exchanger if you are from a country that uses a less common currency. Money changers tend to be less busy and queues are usually shorter, so it is recommended that you change your money at an exchange rather than a bank. On arrival at the airport, you can also change money.
One thing to duly bear in mind is that itineraries that have already been drawn up are more helpful for an accurate estimation of the total budget that is required for your trip. However, if you are inclined to plan your trip by yourself, you should have a surplus with you in case there have been any unforeseen circumstances.
Also, it is recommended to keep the following things in mind when planning your budget before departure. Put money aside for purchases to do for your family and friends.
List everyone you will be spending money on and budget an amount for each.
Also duly remember that if you break the rules of Ihram or miss any of the obligatory acts, you may have to make additional sacrifices as expiation.
If you are running low on cash, you should be able to get more using your credit/debit card, although transaction fees may apply depending on your card issuer and their policy on foreign transactions. The Saudi Payments Network is the only major payment system in the Kingdom. With many in Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah, there are over 15,000 ATMs in the Kingdom. If you are running low on cash, you should be able to get more using your credit/debit card, although transaction fees may apply depending on your card issuer and their policy on foreign transactions. The Saudi Payments Network is the only major payment system in the Kingdom. With many in Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah, there are over 15,000 ATMs in the Kingdom. Depending on your card issuer, there may be a percentage transaction fee for international withdrawals, so you should check with your bank before you leave if you plan to withdraw money from an ATM. Remember that the exchange rate at an ATM is not as good as the rate at a Money Exchanger.
Finally, sadly speaking but to speak the truth, such holiest places like Makkah and Madinah are not free of theft, and these thieves particularly focus on Pilgrims as their prime targets, ever since they are unaware of them or are less cautious while performing their religious rites. This lack of consciousness results in the loss of money or belongings.
To reduce the risk of your thing being stolen, get a waist belt which has a pouch on it. This would help you carry your money and necessary belongings when on the venture. Also, place your valuables in the safe present in your room. If the crowd persists, hold your pouch in your hand.