Taking The First Ever Direct Flight From The UK To Madinah!

I still remember my first trip to Madinah years ago. It was special, of course, but it was also exhausting — London to Jeddah, then a long transfer before I even got close to the Haram. So when I heard there was finally a direct flight from London Gatwick straight into Madinah, I couldn’t believe it. Six hours in the air, no extra flights, no detours. Just one ticket, one boarding pass, and you’re there. Honestly, it feels like the journey has just become so much easier for all of us — whether you’re coming for Umrah, to study, or even to visit family.

On the day of our trip, I made my way to London Gatwick airport fully excited by what was ahead of us. One thing to mention here is that check-in was straightforward, and the whole process was genuinely quite smooth. There was something different about boarding this flight though. Normally, I’m thinking too ahead and getting all worried about what’s to come when I have to go through my layover, which to be honest kind of makes my destination feel even further! But this time, things were a little bit different as I knew that the next time I step off the plane, it would be in Madinah itself! That alone is incentive enough to take this route!

Wizz Air have really upped the game recently and thanks to recent upgrades, the aircraft that we flew on was an Airbus A321XLR, which meant a more modern and spacious cabin and more room to store more fuel for a longer journey. The cabin felt clean and fresh, and settling into my seat, I had that thought again — “I’m really about to fly direct to Madinah.” An hour after take off, staff began heading down the aisle with the food trolley offering snacks, hot meals, and drinks. And interestingly, they also had a halal option on board. Around 2 hours in to the flight, it was nice to see that they had began dimming the lights, which honestly transformed the entire experience to a more relaxed vibe. I just put my headphones in, zoned out and tried getting some well deserved rest!

The flight was around six hours and to be honest, I did not really feel like it was difficult at all. It definitely did not feel like a long haul flight and I found that the cabin air was never too warm nor too cold.

The staff and crew were really helpful and I noticed that when someone pressed the call button, someone was there to help within around 20 seconds!

In terms of costs, a one way ticket for the London Gatwick to Madinah route start from around £135, which is actually extremely good value for money for a direct flight to Madinah! Just keep an eye out if you’re thinking of booking, as prices do go up during peak seasons. In any case, for me I found that its worth the price as you’re getting to Madinah after a single flight!

And then came the moment we’d all been waiting for — arrival in Madinah. Not only did we land smoothly, but we even touched down earlier than scheduled. The luggage process was quick too. Within no time, I was walking out of the airport knowing that the Prophet’s Mosque was just minutes away. For anyone who’s done this journey the old way, you’ll know how big a difference that makes.

From check-in at Gatwick right through to collecting my bags in Madinah, it was a smooth experience all the way. This direct flight really feels like a game changer. It’s hard to believe that something so significant takes just six hours now, and the convenience can’t be overstated.

Another benefit worth mentioning is for those coming for Umrah. Starting in Madinah first means you don’t have to worry about wearing Ihram straight away. It gives you time to acclimatise, adjust, and ease yourself into the journey spiritually before heading on to Makkah.

For me, this flight ticked every box. It was comfortable, the staff were friendly, the timing was perfect, and most importantly, it brought me directly to Madinah with no extra steps in between. For anyone planning to visit Madinah — whether for Umrah, study, work, or family — Wizz Air’s new direct route from London Gatwick is honestly a blessing.

No connections. No long road journeys. Just one flight, one journey, and you’re in Madinah!