Salams, I am Elena, your DIY Umrah Guide
I started DIY Umrah in 2013 with a simple mission: prove that performing Umrah doesn’t have to cost thousands of pounds.
As a British Muslim convert planning my first pilgrimage as a newlywed, I was shocked by package tour prices. So I did what any determined traveler would do – I figured it out myself.
After 30+ phone calls, countless hours of research, and one agent literally laughing at me when I said I’d fly business class for under £300, I made it happen.
My first Umrah cost under £500 total (including the £200 visa fee), we flew business class, and stayed at the Hilton Tower Hotel. That journey changed everything.
Since then, I’ve helped over 1.7 million Muslims through my websites MuslimTravelGirl.com and DIYUmrah.com.
Today, as a single mum and entrepreneur based in the UK, I combine practical Umrah planning expertise with real-life experience to help Muslim families navigate every aspect of their pilgrimage – from visa applications and accommodation bookings to transportation, itinerary planning, and on-the-ground guidance.
Whether you’re planning your first Umrah or your tenth, I’m here to show you it’s possible to create a meaningful, comfortable, and affordable journey. Insha’Allah.
Favourite memories of Umrah trips
