umrah travel guide

Plan Your Own Umrah: The Ultimate Guide on How to Do a DIY Umrah

The most popular question is how to do a DIY Umrah. Do-it-yourself Umrah is becoming extremely easy and popular. There are so many ways to plan and save when planning an Umrah on your own. 

For the past ten years, I have helped over a million readers go for Umrah by understanding the Umrah visa fees and procedures. 

In this blog post, I will share with you the best ways to plan your Umrah DIY, save money with the most cost-effective tips, find the best time to go, and much more.

I perform Umrah several times per year thanks to living in Saudi part-time and I keep with all the latest info. So I definitely know what I am writing about! 

I performed Umrah the first time I did Umrah on my own for under £300 in 2013. I know crazy! 

So when I talk about how to plan the most amazing DIY Umrah, I have a trick or two up my sleeve. No wonder they call me the “Umrah girl”.

Can you Plan Your Own Umrah DIY package?

I have been writing about Umrah for the past 10 years, and yes, you can certainly plan and book your own Umrah package and save thousands on fees for agents.

Planning your own Umrah package, especially for countries that can issue tourist visas and all other types expect Umrah visas to be approximately 30% cheaper than with an agent. 

This is, without a doubt, one of the cheapest ways is booking Umrah yourself by planning and organising everything.

Saudi Arabia as a country has started promoting tourism, and in part of this DIY Umrah to attract more people into the country. With millions already coming for pilgrimage, it is the perfect audience to explore other parts of the country as well.

Their 2030 Saudi vision sees them welcoming 30 million tourists into the country and establishing a tourism industry. I can testify that things I really changing.

This Ultimate DIY Umrah guide below is to help you prepare for what to expect in every aspect of the Umrah procedure.

But in short, you can plan and book your own Umrah visa, book your own Umrah hotels and create your own package. 

Below I will share with you the steps and how you can save thousands on your Umrah planning journey.

Blog Post Content #1 In Planning Your Own Umrah Package – Tips & Prices #2 What Visa Do You Need for Umrah #3 DIY Umrah and Women Travelling Alone #4 The Best Flights and Hotels for Umrah Options #5 Transportation from Jeddah to Makkah and Medinah #6 Approximate costs of your DIY Umrah  #7 Practical Umrah Tips 

#1 In Planning Your Own Umrah Trip Package

Before I start planning an Umrah trip, or any other for that matter, I go through a series of questions and actually plan my whole trip to save as much money as possible. I have a full blog post on this and how / why I do it.  

I know the below might sound really simple and silly to you, but you will surprised how many people simply decide one morning they want to go to Umrah and have lost on deals and offers that could have saved them thousands.

Here are the most important questions to ask yourself when planning Umrah alone.

Decide you want to go for Umrah

Deciding you want to go for Umrah and starting to plan the whole Umrah process well in advance can save you hundreds, if not thousands, in pounds. Many people leave it until the last minute.

Then they wonder whether a DIY Umrah package will be cheaper or just booking with an Umrah agent because they don’t have the time to plan it.

If you are planning on going for Umrah, start saving at least six months in advance . Look out for the best promotions on flights and hotels. Hotels and airlines offer discounts of up to 40% every 3-4 months. 

I have a FREE Guide you can download here for the best time and how to plan DIY Umrah & save money 

What is your budget?

Once you decide you want to go for Umrah at least 3-6 months in advance, you start looking or the package cost. First, however, I always suggest looking at your budget and then the packages. 

We have an idea of always increasing the budget depending on the cost of umrah packages we see online. 

Here is a rough guide for you to keep in mind if you are planning an Umrah package for 2 people. We do have a full DIY Umrah packages examples for each month for you as well.

• UK Umrah DIY package for a 3 star hotel / budget airline from £500 per person
• UK Umrah DIY package for a 4/5 star hotel with budget airline from £800 per person
• UK Umrah package done yourself of a similar standard to 4/5star and airline from £1000 per person.
• For US Umrah packages, I would add around $500 more per person for each package and this is for the flights.

On average, my readers save 25% to 40% doing a DIY Umrah package than booking with an Umrah agent or planning in advance.

How many people are you travelling with and their ages

It is essential to know the people you will be travelling with and their requirements. For example, how many children do you have? Their ages and their mobility.

The same applies to elderly parents who might not be able to walk far to get to Haram. So you might have to think about upping your hotel budget for convenience for them.

Also very important when you are looking at DIY Umrah or Agent packages because agents charge for children even if they share a bed.  

We’ll talk about hotels further below, but many hotels nowadays accommodate up to 4 or 5 people in a room, which is especially good for families.

Note that there will be a surcharge in most cases, but it will be cheaper than standard Umrah packages, when splitting the cost, it will be less. 

• The Best Tips for Umrah with Kids From Over 7 Umrah
• The Best Tips for Umrah with a baby from an experienced mum

Which Airport should you land in Saudi Arabia 

It is important to know whether you will be visiting Medinah and Mekkah when doing Umrah. Sometimes, especially during busy periods, it is better to actually fly into Medina.

Medinah airport is smaller and closer to Masjid Al Nabawi; it usually takes less than 30 minutes to get from the airport to the Masjid, making it a more accessible destination to arrive at first. 

If you travel with kids or coming from afar it is also good to get into Medinah because then you can relax prior to going to Makkah.

• The Best Airport for Umrah 

When are you going to Umrah

It is vital to know when you will be going for Umrah. Umrah during school holidays is much more expensive. Also, Umrah during Ramadan and especially the last 10 nights, can be 20x more than going during the off-peak season. 

Now, let’s be clear. Saudi Arabia received 7 million pilgrims last year for Umrah, there is not much of an off-peak season. Low-cost airlines like Wizz Air which now flies cheaply for Umrah also make it busier. 

This means the prices of hotels also increase sadly. 

Your best option is to go a week or two after busy periods like Christmas, Ramadan and school holidays. Also just after Hajj opens it is a little less busy. 

Note: You cannot do Hajj & Saudi closes Makkah

• Can you go for Umrah after Ramadan? 

Do you have loyalty miles or points?

If you live in the USA, the UK, or any other country that helps you accumulate loyalty programs, you should consider saving money with them.

I have saved over $100,000 using loyalty points for Umrah and stayed in hotels costing over $4000 for only $400 in Ramadan. 

Loyalty points for hotels and flights for Umrah can really save you thousands, especially during peak season, so you are better learning how to use them and planning your holidays with them in mind.

I have a full book on how to use loyalty points and save yourself over 70% on hotels

If you want to find out how to collect miles and points for Umrah and Dream Destination travels check out my Loyalty Points guide. 

All international hotel chains are located in Makkah and Medinah. You can earn points throughout the year and redeem them when on Umrah. This is my strategy, and it saves me thousands every time.

This, of course, is the same for international airlines since pretty much every airline flies into Jeddah airport for Umrah. 

Here are some more articles you can read: 

• American Express Gold Card: Why I still believe it is the best card for Muslims who want to travel
• My travel credit card strategy
• Umrah Price comparison packages: Agents or DIY
• Best Airport for Arrival and Departure During Umrah

#2 What Visa Do You Need for Umrah 

In the past three years, Saudi Arabia has done so much in terms of opening the country to tourists and Umrah pilgrims. It is now so easy to go for Umrah on your own that sometimes my brain still catches up. 

From when I had to beg agents to give me an Umrah visa to now 10 years on it is as easy as an online application or visa on arrival. 

The Types of visas you can issue for Saudi Arabia

1. tourist visa.

This visa allows you to go on tourism and also perform Umrah. The visa is provided for 1 year and you can stay in the country for 90 days maximum. You can enter and exit as many times as you want. This tourist visa is open to several countries around the world and also those holding US, UK and Schengen visas. You can also issue this visa on arrival at immigration. 

• You can read all about the Saudi Tourist visa here. 

2. Visa Waiver for UK citizens

This is a new type of visa currently open to UK citizens and works similar to the US ESTA. It is a permission to enter the country, it is only for one-time entrance, and you can stay up to 6 months. This visa also allows you to perform Umrah.

• Read everything on the Visa Waiver Program here

3. Transit Visa with Saudi Airlines 

The transit visa allows you to perform Umrah and stay in the country for 3 days approximately. You must book your flights with Saudia and leave with the same airline. You can only issue this at the time of booking your flight. You can also get a free night’s accommodation in some cases. 

• Read everything on the Transit visa here. 

4. Umrah Visa 

If you are a passport holder of a country that cannot issue any of the above visas for Saudi Arabia to do Umrah, then you will need to go to an agent and get an Umrah visa. They have some more restrictions than the above types and can only be issued by agents in your home country. 

More information on the Umrah visa 

With all the above visas for Saudi Arabia which pretty much also allow you to perform Umrah, it has become very easy for so many countries to plan a DIY Umrah without the need for agents. 

#3 DIY Umrah and Women Travelling Alone

Solo Muslim Women can go for Umrah on their own without the need for a Mahram. By the law of the country, there is no restriction on what gender can issue a visa, hence, even solo female travellers can go. 

If you are a Muslim woman who is happy and travels alone, this is an option for you as well.

This is the law of the land, and I know Islam has some restrictions, so make sure you are comfortable and speak with your local imam. I am not a scholar. 

I have a full Youtube video of what Umrah solo looks like, even as a first-timer.

Many women have reported to go for Umrah alone and have been safe while enjoying it.

#4 The Best Flights and Hotels for Umrah Options

How to find the best deals on flights and hotels when doing a diy umrah.

I always start my search for flights with Skyscanner because you can check out flights with dates and months as well. Some flexibility can really save you money,

Wizz Air offers some of the cheapest flights to Saudi Arabia from several European cities if you are happy to go with a budget airline and are okay with paying extra for luggage. I mean, who can beat £100 return to Saudi? 

Every major international airline flies to Jeddah, and some fly to Medinah as well. If you are looking for prices from London to Jeddah, they are about £500 direct with Saudia via Gatwick off-peak, and you can find them cheaper if you take a stopover for around £350. 

Flights from the US for Umrah have also significantly decreased, and I have seen options to fly for less than $800 return trip from New York to Jeddah. 

We have package examples with flights from the US for Umrah as well as from the UK. 

Here are my favourite options for getting cheap flights. 

Booking flights during sales: Airlines have about 3-4 deals per year where you can find cheaper options, even by 40% from anywhere in the world. One big mistake people make is booking flights when they think they have to instead of looking at the time period. 

For example, deciding to go for Umrah in April, people will start booking flights in February or March. Had they decided to go in April, they could have booked over the Christmas sale and saved some cash on them. 

These sales usually occur during December, April, June, and September. They have validity for up to one year of travel in some cases, making it easy to plan your trips around the cheapest dates. 

I always find flights with Skyscanner as I love their monthly view and their yearly cheap flight option.

Know when to book your flights: If you have missed the sale period (oops!) you can still find a decent deal by monitoring your flights with Google Flights . I love this as I can see how volatile the flight prices are and how much they fluctuate. 

I have found some good deals for four to six weeks for international travel and even two weeks before travel. This, of course, is harder if you are not a risk-taker as prices can increase. 

People will usually book flights two months before travel, so you will start looking at routes at the same time as thousands of others, making the prices go up. If you wait for the surge in traffic and you monitor via Google Flights, you can avoid this. 

Use low-cost airlines and split tickets : Sometimes, not booking the entire ticket for Jeddah can save you money. If you are going during peak times, flights can be expensive from London to Jeddah. 

Look for options to book an open-jaw ticket to Medina and return from Jeddah. Many times this will save you money and hassle. 

Plus, now, with the Haramain train, it is easier and more convenient to travel between Makkah and Medinah.

Other times, I love using low-cost airlines that have become very handy. You can easily combine a holiday with them. 

For example, a flight from London to Jeddah with Pegasus Airlines can be cheaper to split in half (London-Istanbul, Istanbul – Jeddah) than booking into one flight. This is because of demand and supply. 

My all-time favourite tip is taking advantage of WizzAir’s cheap flights from Europe to Dammam and then from Dammam to Jeddah and Medinah with any of the many airlines. This way, I have saved hundreds, and also I have combined a post-Umrah holiday along the way. 

Loyalty Programs: If you collect miles, you can definitely use them for flights to Makkah and Medinah from anywhere in the world. Personally, I prefer to use cash if I am not redeeming for business class. Still, you could also upgrade your travel experience from economy to business. 

My best tip for the cheapest option of redeeming, especially if you have a large family, is to fly to a nearby country and then redeem for a business class to Jeddah. I love it when I end up first out of the plane to immigration and finish before the crowd! 

Travel Hack your Umrah and save up to 70% on 5-star hotels in Makkah and Medinah.

The updated 2.0 version of this book can save you thousands every year on your Umrah and general travels.

Best Hotel Options in Makkah and Medina

Makkah is opening so many new hotels that it makes me excited to go and review them all. My poor husband was so lovely last time since we went for a week, and we changed three different hotels so that  I could review them . 

Five-star hotels in Makkah are becoming cheaper now because there are more and more properties opening up competition, especially in non-peak season, bringing the prices down.

One question I get asked a lot about is where should you stay in Makkah. Which side is better traffic-wise and for the elderly and children while on Umrah? 

I have a full Youtube visa on this if you want to listen 

A few years back, the Clock Tower was the place to be; I personally never liked it as the traffic to the mall, and the hotels always made it very busy. 

The lifts to the hotels took ages, and people outside selling things made it even harder to move. Plus, the Haram construction on that site didn’t help the situation. 

However , if you want the best views of Haram, this is the place to be! 

I find that hotel options are personal preference, and you will find many comments under my video about people siding with or against me. 🙂

The best hotels for young children and the elderly 

The Intercontinental Dar Al Tawhid and the now Makkah Hotel and Towers (old  Hilton Hotel and Towers ). When we stayed in both properties, we were in the Haram in 5 minutes, and because it is in the courtyard, it is easy to move with a stroller or a wheelchair. 

My other preference, which I will use with my family, is the new Jabal Omar hotels, such as the Conrad Makkah , Hyatt Makkah , and Hilton Convention Makkah . You do have to cross the road for them, but it’s not a big issue, and you still get to Haram in about 5-7 minutes. 

I like these hotels because they are newer and offer the 4-star standard of European and American hotels. If you are paying money for convenience, you might as well pay for the comfort of a new hotel. 

Also, many new hotels are further away but are excellent value for money. Holiday Inn Azziziya is a new property; Ibis Makkah can be found for really cheap in Ramadan here and several others. Check out the post on budget hotels here.

These hotels can be found for as little as £40 per night! Yes, you do need to take their shuttle or order an Uber, but if you are on a budget and don’t mind the distance, you honestly can’t go wrong. 

I like using International chains because I feel safer and that I have more rights as a customer.

If I go and my stay is not as expected (don’t make false complaints), I can contact their International office and make an official complaint. 

How many times have I had people email me and say their Makkah and Medinah hotels were horrible or they lost money and nothing could be done. 

• Umrah with babies the best tips 
• Umrah with children the best tips

Hotel Sales in Makkah and Medinah

Same to airlines, hotels have sales every few months. Ensure you check in advance (see above when planning) which hotel you would like to stay in the sign-up for their newsletter. 

One hotel starts its sale; you can expect that every other one will follow in a week or so. Again, competition in the travel industry is fierce. 

Most of these sales have either non-refundable options or semi-flex, so make sure you are happy with your dates before booking, as you might not be able to cancel them. 

During a sale, you can find hotels in Makkah and Medina for as little as £70 per night at Hilton and around £90 for Hyatt. The majority of their rooms can also accommodate families with children, up to 4-5 adults or kids. 

The best advice on this is to actually call the hotel and make sure you ask them if they charge for children because sometimes the online system is rigid. 

Loyalty points and free nights for Umrah

Again, I rarely book via third-party sites unless it is one stay in a place with a significant discount. This is because my travel strategy includes staying in hotel chains to receive points that I can redeem for expensive properties worldwide. 

Like Makkah during Ramadan. This is how we saved over £2000 per night during our Hyatt stay in the last 10 nights of Ramadan for several years now in a row. I used all my points with Hyatt to stay there and save. 

Yes, this strategy takes years sometimes and persistence, but I prefer spending a little extra for benefits like complimentary breakfast, upgrades, and lounge access than saving £20 a room. Because I know I can receive good value for my spending. 

I always make sure my money goes further and return double of what I spent. I lived 8 months in hotels to earn points. 

If you want to find out more about using points for hotel stays and saving, you can check my Umrah Book for more information . 

Cashback on Hotels

If you don’t want to bother with points but still want to save money on your hotel stays I highly recommend using cashback websites like Topcashback to earn throughout the year and on your Makkah hotel of course. 

Many third-party online agents like Expedia , Hotels.com and Booking.com have loyalty programs where you can save money and combine cashback with their offers. 

When to Book Your Hotels for Umrah

I usually book my hotels during the sale period with semi-flex terms even if it is more expensive . I like the flexibility. It can be about 8 months in advance.

If, for some reason, the rates go down and it’s closer to time the time of my Umrah, I will cancel them and rebook the cheaper rate. 

Best hotels in Makkah Best budget hotels in Makkah Best hotels in Medinah

If you book on loyalty points, you are usually more flexible than booking non-refundable rates. So if you need to cancel, you can, and you can still show them to the agent with no problem. 

Overall I book my hotels for Umrah the same way I would book them for any other trip, just double-checking the prices and cancellation terms before I book, as some hotels in Ramadan are non-refundable.

I will book flights when the best price appears, and in most cases, they are non-refundable, so they will be confirmed flights.  

Here are some posts to read on the topic:

• Amex Gold: The Best card for Muslims to travel without interest
• Oman Air Business Class Redemption with Etihad Miles Jeddah to Muscat, the best deal ever!

#5 Transportation from Jeddah to Makkah and Medinah

I have an extensive Umrah transportation guide that can help you with the best options and prices available for every transport option for Umrah and for travel in Saudi Arabia.

But in short, I would like also to cover them here and make it easier for you. 

Jeddah to Makkah: The best way to arrive in Makkah from Jeddah is to take a taxi from the airport. You can negotiate with a driver once you exit the airport or order an Uber or Careem (the Middle Eastern version of Uber). As a techno girl, I prefer the latter options. The cost is approximately £50. 

Makkah to Medina: By far, the best option to travel between the Holy cities is to use the Haramain Train. 

It is easy, convenient and comfortable, plus it takes the least time. I don’t enjoy Saudi driving, so I try to avoid it as much as possible. You can book the train online, which costs £20 per person. Read more about it here. 

Taxi is another option , and there are plenty of choices of taxis outside the Conrad and Hyatt hotels. If you are a large family they usually make sense between the two cities or to Jeddah. You can negotiate with them the rate.

Ziara trips around Makkah, and you can do an hourly rate as well with taxis outside your hotel. Start low and find a price you are comfortable with, but around £20-30 is good for a few hours. You can also get Uber for this as well. 

In Medinah, they have a tour bus that can get you around to Ziara, and it’s a hop-on and off so you can get off and enjoy the sights before getting the next one. It is the same company that runs the ones in other cities around the world.  

Medinah to Jeddah: If your flight departs from Jeddah, you can take the train to Jeddah as the train stops just outside terminal 1 KAIA in Jeddah. 

TIP: I suggest arriving in Medinah and then departing from Jeddah. Medinah airport is smaller, so easier to get out of, and also, the train now makes it easy to reach Jeddah. On departure, Jeddah is closer and more convenient. 

Locations for Trains in Makkah and Medinah: 

• Haramain Train location in Makkah: Al Rasaifah, Ar Rusayfah, Makkah 24232, Saudi Arabia
• SAPTCO bus stop in Medinah: King Faisal Rd, Bani Khidrah, Crowne Plaza Hotel، Medina 42311, Saudi Arabia
• Haramain Train location in Medinah: Al Hadra, Medina 42368 8183, Saudi Arabia

Make sure you read our full Umrah transportation guide

#6 Approximate costs of your DIY Umrah 

We have created a Do-It-Yourself Umrah with examples you can click on and book on your own. This will help you realise the cost of doing Umrah yourself.

Read the post here:

Done for Your Umrah Packages

As I have mentioned above, I price and plan Umrah now in a similar way as I do our other holidays. 

I know the timing of when I have to send my Umrah visa (3-4 weeks in advance), and then I book my hotels and flights when I find the best deals.

I would suggest an average price for a week-long DIY Umrah is about £800 per person in a 4 or 5-star hotel. Depending on your location and preferences. 

You can see below some estimated costs, but note these are at the time of writing, so for accuracy, please click the links for individual hotels.

• Tourist visa fee cost: £120 / $150 
• Flights from New York to Jeddah for Umrah: $950 (one stopover in Istanbul)
• Flights from London to Jeddah for Umrah: £550 (direct off peak)  £200 (budget airline)

Hotels in Makkah for five nights 

Options for 4-5 star hotels with closest to Haram first

• Makkah Towers (0.3 miles) £600 / $780 for two people 
• Hyatt Makkah Jabal Omar (0.3 miles) £600 / $780 for two people 
• Jumeirah Hotel Makkah (0.3miles) £800 /$1000 for two people
• Hilton Convention hotel (0.4 miles) £530 / $650 for two people
• Sheraton Makkah Jabal Al Kaaba Hotel (0.5 miles) £330 / $430 for two people 
• M Hotel Makkah by Millennium (1.6 miles) £190 / $250 for two people 

Options for 3-star hotels closest to Haram First 

• Voco Makkah (1.1 miles) £250/ $400 for two people
• Ibis Styles Makkah (1.9 miles) £116 / $150 for two people 
• Three Points Musali Makkah (2.3 miles) £185 / $240 for two people 
• Four Points by Sheraton Makkah Al Naseem (4.2miles) £145 / $200 for two people 

Hotels in Medinah for five nights 

• Dar Al Iman Intercontinental (0.1 miles) £600/ $850
• Pullman Zamzam Madina (0.2 miles) £375 / $490
• Anwar Al Madinah Movenpick Hotel (0.3 miles) £600 / $780 
• Taiba Hotel Madinah (0.3 miles) £410 / $540 
• Crowne Plaza Madinah (0.3 miles) £334 / $ 420
• InterContinental Dar Al Hijra Madinah (0.5 miles) £355 / $460

Transportation from Jeddah to Makkah: £40 / $55 for two people on taxi or Uber 

Transportation from Makkah to Medinah: £70 / $90 for two people on the Haramain train (add double for return if needed)

Ziara tours depend on you and if you would like them but around £50 / $65 for two people  

Food also depends on your personal circumstances, we do spend about £10- £20 ($25) per day per person in the food court but I also buy from the supermarket and make sandwiches for afternoon snacks and fruits. 

In total performing, a Do-it-Yourself Umrah comes much cheaper than buying an Umrah package as you can make it as expensive or inexpensive as you wish. Plus, if you use some of the tips above, it can be very cost-effective. 

• Price Comparison (DIY) Do-It-Yourself Umrah VS Umrah Agent Packages

#7 Practical Umrah Tips

Nusuk app for umrah .

You will need to book a Rawdah slot for Medinah. They are very strict and won’t let you go otherwise. The slots open every hour, and you should check multiple times per day. They usually release availability about four weeks prior, but slots are booked very fast. I have a reel on Instagram with great tips for you.

If you have young kids a usually you don’t need separate appointment and those with wheelchair only need for the wheelchair person. This makes it easier as sometimes families cannot go togehter. I would also advice for you to go about 1 hour before your slot. There is a lot of waiting.

You need to have your visa number in order to register. You can do this on an international SIM as well.

For Umrah slots, you really don’t need it; they don’t check, but for men in Ihram, there have been rumours of being stopped and asked because usually only those on Umrah perform tawaf in the Kabah area. Many will wear ihram just for this. Women don’t get checked as you wear your abaya. 🙂

• The best apps for Umrah 

International Currency Using Credit Cards in Saudi for Umrah

You might be wondering what you should use for currency and whether it is better to exchange it prior to arriving from Umrah in, Saudi. Personally, I use Revolut for pretty much all my international transactions within a country as they don’t have foreign exchange fees for SAR.

Revolut works great for pretty much any country that is visiting Saudi and doesn’t have free foreign exchange fees. I will also take my cash out of Revolut. I do have the free plan, so I think it is around £200 cash per month I can use. I use the cash for a Taxi for Ziara and also a charity in Haram.

If you are in the UK you also have the option for Monzo bank etc. Personally I stick with Revolut and I just transfer the amounts needed for my small shopping expenses like supermarket, gift shops etc.

,For big purchases like hotels and flights I use my American Express card due to consumer protections. ,

If you are in the US many banks waive the transaction fees and give you extra points like Chase or Amex so you might better off changing to those providers for your trip.

If you are new to Revolut you can use my referral link for extra credit.

Zamzam water

One of the frequent questions is about ZamZam water and how you can take it. You have to buy it from the airport, though, so it is sealed and packed and ready for transportation.

I think it was about 20SAR for the 5 lit ones, and you buy it from the kiosk outside next to departures at Jeddah & Medinah airport. 

Suppose you are staying longer in Saudi Arabia as a tourist. In that case, you can also buy Zam Zam water from major supermarkets in the country.

If you are on a split ticket, you will have to put water into your suitcase, and it will be from your luggage allowance. And you risk transferring to another country and being taken away on split tickets. Split tickets are those booked like budget airlines or those with two separate bookings.

You can take a few bottles 0.5 lt of ZamZam in your suitcase, but make sure they don’t leak because they will be removed. So seal them properly. This will also count towards your baggage allowance. 

Mobile Phone SIM Umrah

If you don’t have International data for your phone, you can buy a local sim card; it costs £20 / $30 and comes with a local number and data. 

They have tourist SIM cards valid for a few weeks. You will need your passport to get them, and the Mobily office in the Jabal Omar development has excellent customer service.

You can also buy them just after you exit the luggage area at the airport. 

I also use an E-SIM provider called Holafly, which I can buy before entering the country. They are super easy to install and use and I have done so in many countries. You can use my referral link for 5% off your next e-sim

Inside the Haram 

Big cameras are not allowed in Haram, and your bags will be searched, but you can take a small backpack for your shoes, prayer mat and food for kids. You can have your mobile and take photos, though. 

Also, I would recommend you bring a bag for your shoes as well as a prayer mat.  I have linked several on my Amazon account for ease for Hajj & Umrah products I use.

Wheelchair for Elderly 

For children and the elderly, there are free wheelchairs you can use to transport them around so they don’t walk. You can also hire one of the guys to help with doing tawaf and Sa’i.

There are also electric scooters that you can rent to perform Tawaf and Sa’i this way.

Pram in the Haram

You can take your baby pram to Haram without a problem when you go for Umrah or prayers. You will have to use the ramps on each side of the mosque, and it takes you on the second mataf.

You can check this post here:

The Best Tips for Umrah with a Baby Tried and Tested tips for Umrah with Kids that work! What to Wear When Going for Umrah & Hajj as a Woman From Experience

Are you wondering the best time to book Umrah & save money?

I have created an 18-page guide to help you plan an Umrah at the best time. Sharing tips and tricks in one place to save you time & of course, money.

I love planning and organising my own Umrah trip package. It is easy and much cheaper. It allows me to enjoy what I value most: prayer in the Haram without feeling pressure and also flexibility in my dates.

I hope this ultimate guide on how to plan a DIY Umrah yourself will give you the confidence to try it for yourself if you haven’t done it already. 

If you have more tips for Muslim pilgrims or want to share your experiences, please do so below. 

May Allah invite us to his house soon because no matter how much planning, we can’t go if we don’t have the invitation.

Check out my book as well as the many articles with helpful information on Umrah we have on the website. 

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Monday 12th of February 2024

Salam Alaykoum, Do you know if there are still lockers for our luggage. The last day of our trip, we will come back to Makkah to spend the day there, but we are looking for a solution to store our luggage somewhere? Do you have any experience with this?

Muslim Travel Girl

Thursday 22nd of February 2024

No lockers, as far as I know. Only hotels luggage storage. They used to have

Monday 27th of November 2023

Asalaamolaiykom

Just came across your site whilst planning the journey for my team of 5.

Just wanted to thank you for laying everything out for us so clearly!...May Allah bless you and accept your efforts.

I will for sure be delegating some of this to my daughter to help me now :-) ...JazakAllah Khair sister!

Monday 22nd of May 2023

Assalamalaikum sister Elena, JazakAllah Khair for sharing your experiences and the wealth of knowledge Allah has bestowed upon you. I intend to take my mum for Umrah this year In Sha Allah. She would like to also do Qurbani while there (around Aug this year) in addition to seeing the various sites of Makkah Mukarramah (Muzdalifah, Namirah Mosque, Mina, Arafat, etc.). Are any of these possible to do while there for Umrah? We have never been there before and would like to make the most of our stay as visitors. JazakAllah in advance for your insights on the local rules / laws that you are aware of. Look forward to hearing from you soon.

Tuesday 23rd of May 2023

Yes you can go to those places, there are taxis you can take and they can take you to ziara places. No laws other than what we would normally do as muslims outside of these cities really. Be respectful to fellow Muslims and the guards. Enjoy your Umrah :)

Monday 8th of May 2023

As salaam u alaikum sister, I intend to travel from Manchester at around 22nd/23rd July 2023 for a 2 week Umrah followed by a trip to Mumbai from Jeddah before returning to Manchester. My question is that because of the Hajj season ending in July and then following a closure of all facilities before Umrah season reopens, will be be allowed to enter Jeddah for Umrah on the 22nd or 23rd of July? Would we be able to apply for our e-visas now itself in May for this? JazakAllah khair.

Wednesday 10th of May 2023

So we don't have a date for opening again, however, based on last year they should open around 20th of July. Again this is an estimation and not specific. I have an article on thisCan You Go for Umrah After Ramadan 2023?

Friday 3rd of March 2023

Al Salam Alikum I have booked a flight (2 adults and 2 kids) to Jedah. The flight arrives at 12 mid night in Jedah. Can we stay the night in Jedah. The next day in the morning wash, say the neyah, put the ihram then go miqaat and then go to Makkah?

Saturday 11th of March 2023

I dont believe you can, i am not a scholar so you better ask your local Imam but you can still be in Ihram and rest before Umrah.

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• Ultimate Umrah Guide: Step-by-Step Instructions for Pilgrims
• October 12, 2023

Umrah is a sacred Islamic pilgrimage, often referred to as the “lesser pilgrimage,” that holds profound significance for Muslims worldwide. It represents a journey of faith, devotion, and spiritual fulfillment. For first-time Umrah pilgrims, the prospect of undertaking this journey can be both exciting and daunting. Proper guidance is essential to ensure that they navigate this path successfully, fulfilling the rites and rituals with deep reverence. In this comprehensive guide, we will unravel the essence of Umrah, its distinctions from Hajj, and the spiritual weight it carries. We will also delve into the inner calling that beckons individuals to embark on this spiritual expedition, drawing inspiration from the experiences of fellow pilgrims.

Understanding Umrah

What is umrah.

Umrah, an act of worship in Islam, distinguishes itself from Hajj, the other major pilgrimage, primarily through its rites and obligations. This article will provide a clear definition of Umrah, highlighting its rituals and the crucial variations between the two pilgrimages. More importantly, we will delve into the religious and spiritual significance of Umrah, emphasizing the importance of its performance in the life of a devout Muslim.

The Call of Umrah

Umrah is not merely a journey; it is a spiritual calling that stirs the hearts of Muslims. This section explores the inner motivations and desires that lead individuals to undertake Umrah. We’ll shed light on the profound sense of connection to the divine that fuels this spiritual journey. Additionally, personal stories and testimonials from pilgrims will serve as a source of inspiration, illustrating the transformative power of Umrah and the remarkable experiences that await those who heed the call.

Preparing for Your Umrah Journey

Choosing the right time for umrah.

Selecting the ideal time for Umrah is crucial. We’ll elucidate the best periods, considering seasons and personal preferences. Additionally, we’ll explore the unparalleled significance of performing Umrah during the holy month of Ramadan.

Financial Planning

Umrah can be affordable with proper planning. This section provides a comprehensive guide to budgeting for Umrah, helping pilgrims manage their expenses. We’ll offer valuable tips on saving and various financing options.

Selecting the Ideal Umrah Package

Selecting the ideal Umrah package is a pivotal decision. Our agency offers a range of options, including affordable packages, ensuring a seamless and fulfilling pilgrimage for all our clients.

Obtaining the Necessary Documentation

Successful Umrah requires the right documentation. We’ll outline the essential travel documents, such as visas and passports, needed for the pilgrimage. Furthermore, we’ll provide detailed information on how to obtain these documents, ensuring a hassle-free journey.

Arrival in Saudi Arabia

Landing in jeddah.

Upon arrival at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, our guide offers essential tips for a seamless entry and customs procedures. We’ll also explain the profound significance of entering the state of Ihram, marking the beginning of your sacred journey.

Transportation to Mecca

Enjoy the convenience of all-inclusive transportation to Mecca throughout your entire Umrah journey. We ensure a seamless and comfortable travel experience for all our clients.

Experiencing Mecca

The holy kaaba.

Discover the profound importance of the Kaaba in Islam and its central role in the Umrah pilgrimage. Explore the emotional impact and significance of witnessing this sacred structure for the first time.

Inclusive Accommodation in Mecca

Our Umrah packages encompass every aspect of your journey, starting with accommodation in Mecca. Explore our comprehensive offerings and recommendations for a comfortable and spiritually enriching stay.

The Grand Mosque (Haram)

Understand the layout and deep significance of the Haram, where the Kaaba is located. Gain essential guidance on how to perform the Tawaf (circumambulation) and Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah) rituals, ensuring you have a meaningful and spiritually enriching experience.

Traveling to Medina

The importance of medina in islamic history.

We will delve into the profound significance of including a visit to Medina in your pilgrimage journey. Discover the historical and religious context that makes this journey to the City of the Prophet so meaningful.

Transportation to Medina

In our comprehensive Umrah packages, transportation to Medina is fully covered, guaranteeing a hassle-free journey between the two holy cities. Your pilgrimage is our priority.

The Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi)

Delve into the rich history and spiritual significance of the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina. This section provides guidance on how to perform prayers and engage in ziyarah (visiting) of this revered site, ensuring a deeply spiritual experience during your visit.

Returning Home

Departure from saudi arabia.

Leaving Saudi Arabia is a significant part of your Umrah journey. We will guide you through the departure process, including customs and airport procedures to ensure a smooth and stress-free exit.

Reflecting on Your Umrah Journey

As you prepare to depart, take a moment to reflect on your Umrah experience. The spiritual benefits of this pilgrimage extend beyond the physical journey. Embrace the long-term positive impact it can have on your life.

In conclusion, your Umrah journey is a sacred undertaking that requires meticulous planning and guidance. This guide has covered key steps and insights to make your pilgrimage meaningful and trouble-free. Proper preparation is the foundation of a successful Umrah journey, one that can transform your life in profound and lasting ways.

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Umrah Overview

Umrah, a sacred pilgrimage in Islam, offers a journey of reflection and devotion in Makkah. This section provides a concise introduction, capturing its essence, rituals, and significance, guiding both novices and those familiar with its profound traditions. Dive in to grasp the heart of this spiritual endeavor.

What is Umrah?

Umrah is a lesser pilgrimage in Islam, compared to Hajj. It’s voluntary, taking place in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and can be performed throughout the year, unlike the annual Hajj.

Anyone who proceeds with this spiritual journey purifies their body, heart, soul and mind from their past sins.

How long does Umrah take?

Depending on ability and capacity in the masjid, Umrah can be performed in as little as 45 minutes upto 3 hours.

Virtue of Umrah

Umrah holds significant spiritual value. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him highlighted its importance, stating that it serves as an expiation for sins committed between consecutive Umrahs, enhancing one’s piety and spiritual growth.

Reward for performing Umrah in Ramadan: 1. The Prophet blessings and peace be upon him said: “Performance of Umrah in Ramadan is equivalent to Hajj”, or he said: “Equal to performance of Hajj with me” 2. This virtue extends to all the days and nights of Ramadan 3. The pilgrim must perform his Umrah at the time allotted to him as shown by the reservations in the official Umrah applications

Best time to perform Umrah

A Muslim may perform Umrah at any time. However, there are important criteria for determining the appropriate time for Umrah for each person:

• It is better for the pilgrim to choose the less crowded times so that they can perform the rituals of Umrah, go near the Haram, and pray there with ease.
• There is a special merit for Umrah in the month of Ramadan. The Prophet’s blessings and peace be upon him said: “Performance of Umrah during Ramadan is equal to Hajj”, or he said: “Equal to the performance of Hajj with me”.
• Pilgrims must perform Umrah at the time allotted to them, according to their reservations on the official Umrah apps.
• Umrah is not allowed during the Hajj season, for those who do not intend to combine it with Hajj, to keep the Sacred sites available for pilgrims, because they are more deserving of those sites than others at that time.

Those entering the Kingdom on any type of visa can go to Makkah to perform Umrah after making a reservation through the Nusuk app.

Umrah in Ramadan

Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, amplifies the rewards of Umrah. Undertaking it during this time is believed to grant blessings equivalent to performing Hajj alongside the Prophet Muhammad, emphasizing its special significance.

Umrah Glossary

Navigate Umrah Islamic terminologies with ease. Our glossary offers clear definitions of key terms, aiding both newcomers and seasoned learners in deepening their understanding of Islamic teachings.

Ihram is a sacred state that Muslim pilgrims enter and stay in while performing the divine rituals of Umrah. Ihram must be worn by every individual heading to Makkah for either of the lesser or greater pilgrimage. A pilgrim enters the state by performing some cleansing acts and wearing a dress.

Tawaf is the act of circumambulating the Holy Kaaba in an anti-clockwise direction. It involves walking around the Kaaba seven times as part of the rituals of Umrah. When performing Tawaf, pilgrims recite Takbir and various other supplications based on the Sunnah of the Prophet’s.

The Talbiyah is a devotional prayer recited by Muslim pilgrims with the belief that they intend to perform Umrah only for the glory of Allah (SWT). It is recited at least a hundred times throughout the pilgrimage.

Sa’ee is an Islamic ritual which  honours the struggle of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)’s wife Hajar (AS); it means to run or walk between Safa and Marwa while performing Umrah and is the fourth compulsory rite of Hajj or Umrah, performed after completing Tawaf.

Halq is when one shaves their entire head after the completion of Umrah and it applies exclusively to men. A person won’t be able to leave the state of Ihram until it is performed. It is recommended that you start shaving hair from the right side while facing the Holy Kaaba.

Step by Step

Embark on the spiritual journey of Umrah with clarity and confidence. Our guide offers clear instructions, historical insights, and practical tips, ensuring pilgrims navigate each ritual seamlessly. Ideal for both first-time travelers and seasoned pilgrims seeking a comprehensive overview.

Travel and Preparations

When you arrive at a Saudi airport:

• You need to declare in a specific form:
• Any amounts exceeding SAR 60,000, or its equivalent.
• Gifts in commercial quantities exceeding SAR 3,000.
• Do not carry banned items. For details, see the list of banned and restricted items on the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority website.

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• Umrah visas may be issued all year round
• The Umrah visa is valid for 30 days. Once your visa has been issued, you have 30 days to enter the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Once you have entered, you can stay in the country for a maximum of 30 days. Please confirm this with your travel agency before booking as the Saudi Hajj Ministry sometimes reduces the stay validity to 15 days, particularly during the months of Ramadan and Shaban.
• As of 2020, you will need to pay about £250 / $330 for an Umrah visa. You may also perform Umrah on a Saudi tourist visa, provided you are from  one of 49 eligible countries , at a cost of about £110 / $140.

The Saudi Arabian government stipulates that your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of departure. If it’s due to expire within this period, ensure you extend it or apply for a new passport well in advance. Please contact the relevant passport issuing authority in your country for more information. It normally takes a few weeks for a new passport to be issued or extended, unless you can take advantage of a fast-track service that expedites the process. If you’re not a citizen of the country that you’re a resident in, the same rule also applies and your travel agent should be able to inform you of any additional requirements.

Passport-Sized Photos

You’re required to provide a recent passport sized photograph with a white background. The photo must be a full-face view rather than a side or angled view. Your travel agent may ask you to provide more than one for any additional documentation, for example for the group ID card.

Proof of Vaccination

All pilgrims from all countries must produce a valid certificate of vaccination against quadrivalent (A/C/Y/W135) meningococcal meningitis. This certificate must be signed by an authorised medical professional. Proof of vaccination must be submitted no less than 10 days prior to your arrival in Saudi Arabia. A visa won’t be issued without this certificate.

Round-Trip Ticket

A round-trip ticket to Saudi Arabia with confirmed reservations is required prior to a visa being issued.

Proof of Religion (for Converts)

If you have recently converted to Islam, you may be required to submit signed certification issued by an acceptable Muslim authority, such as the Imam of your local mosque, to verify that you’re Muslim. Since non-Muslims can’t enter Makkah and Madinah, this document is of vital importance, particularly if you don’t have a Muslim name on your passport. Your travel agent should be able to provide you with further details regarding this.

Ihram (Arabic: إحرام) refers to the sacred state a pilgrim must enter before carrying out the rites of Hajj and Umrah. The pilgrim must enter into this state after cleansing the body, wearing the prescribed attire and making the intention, before crossing the designated Miqat.

Meaning of Ihram

The word Ihram is derived from the Arabic verb harama (Arabic: حرم), which means “to be forbidden”. It refers to a state of purity the pilgrim is required to be in to perform Hajj, Umrah or both before entering the perimeter of Makkah. After having made the intention for Ihram, the pilgrim must abide by its prohibitions. An individual in the state of Ihram is known as a Muhrim, literally meaning “one who has made things forbidden upon himself.” The two-piece garment worn by men is also referred to as the Ihram.

Significance of Ihram

Ihram is a state of purity, both in mind and body. It is foremost a state of mind, whereby a spiritual relationship with God is established and the vanities of the world are renounced. Hajj is an egalitarian rite in the sense that all of humanity, irrespective of gender, sect, ethnic origin, rank or wealth, is equal before God. The Ihram attire, two pieces of white, unstitched cloth, removes all semblance of social, cultural and political differences for the sake of equality before God.

When to Enter into Ihram

Ihram must be assumed before crossing the Miqat boundary. If the Miqat is crossed without having entered into the state of Ihram, a penalty will be due in atonement, although the Hajj or Umrah will remain valid. According to the Hanafi school of thought, it is more meritorious to enter into Ihram while starting the Hajj journey from one’s hometown, while the Maliki and Hanbali schools affirm that assuming Ihram before the point of Miqat is more virtuous.

Assuming you choose to enter into Ihram before the point of Miqat and you’re travelling by air, you will have different options on where you can change into your Ihram attire, depending on the airline you’re flying with.

Flight with a non-Islamic Airline

If you’re flying with an airline such as British Airways, there will be no facilities onboard where you’ll be able to pray or get changed, so you should put on your Ihram at the airport prior to departure. It would be wise to check in first before getting changed in the prayer room or in the bathroom. You should pronounce your intention and recite Talbiyah on the plane as the Miqat approaches to enter into the state of Ihram.

Flight that has one or more stops

If you’re not flying directly to Saudi Arabia and you’re going to stop over in another country for a period of time, you’re advised to change into the Ihram during the stopover at the airport, before your departure to Saudi Arabia.

Visiting Madinah First

Depending on your package, you may go to Madinah for several days before departing for Makkah to perform Hajj or Umrah. If this is the case, you mustn’t assume Ihram prior to or during your journey. You may wear normal clothing until you’re ready to leave Madinah with the intention of performing Hajj or Umrah in Makkah, at which point you must enter into the state of Ihram. You may assume Ihram at your hotel in Madinah or at the designated Miqat for Madinah, Masjid Dhul Hulayfah. The taxi/coach will stop at the mosque on the way so you won’t need to worry about informing the driver of the detour.

Entering Ihram

Preparation

I heard the Prophet ﷺ saying: ‘Five things are part of nature: circumcision, removing the pubic hair, trimming the moustache, clipping the nails and removing the hair under the armpit.’

“If you haven’t done so already, you should ensure you:Clip your finger and toenails.Remove the hair under the armpits.Remove the hair under the navel.Trim the moustache.”

You should then perform Ghusl, a highly recommended act for those intending to assume Ihram. It is Sunnah for every man, woman and child, including those women experiencing menses or post-natal bleeding, to bathe prior to donning the Ihram garments. A woman experiencing menstruation may fulfil all the rituals of Hajj except Tawaf of the Kaaba and the two Rakahs of Nafl accompanying it. Abdullah ibn Abbas  I  narrates:

A woman experiencing menstruation or post-natal bleeding should take a bath, enter Ihram and perform all the rites of Hajj except circumambulation of the House, until she becomes pure. 2

It is Makruh to neglect the Ghusl without a valid reason. If for whatever reason, Ghusl can’t be performed,  Wudhu  should be carried out.

Ihram for Men

Men should remove any clothing that is stitched or tailored to fit the shape of the body such as shirts, trousers, vests and underwear before entering the state of Ihram. You may delay removing any clothing that violates the conditions of Ihram such as underwear until the point of Miqat, at which stage the intention for Ihram should be made.

The Ihram attire consists of two white, simple pieces of cloth known as the Izar, which wraps around the waist covering the lower body, and the Rida, which is draped over the shoulders covering the upper body like a shawl. Shoes/sandals may be stitched or unstitched, but mustn’t cover the heel and ankle bones. The Hanafi school of thought also stipulates that the top part of the foot (specifically the instep area where the shoelace is normally tied) should also remain uncovered.

Ihram for Women

Women are not required to conform to a specific dress code and are free to wear what they please. Needless to say, clothing should be normal, modest Islamic dress with a head covering of any colour. Socks may be worn but the hands and faces must be uncovered.

Salah al-Ihram

After changing into your Ihram, it is Sunnah to perform two Rakahs of Salah al-Ihram before making the intention to enter into the state of Ihram, by consensus of all four schools of law. This should be performed before the Miqat has been crossed. Provided it isn’t one of the prohibited times for prayer, observe the Salah with the intention of performing two Rakahs Nafl for Ihram.

If any other prayer is performed after changing into the Ihram attire and before pronouncing the intention, whether it is obligatory or Sunnah (such as the two Rakahs Salah for the greeting of the mosque), it will account for this prayer, even if there is no intention to do so.

The Niyyah should be made at the Miqat or close to the Miqat as you move towards it. The intention must be made from the heart although it is also Mustahabb to utter the Niyyah verbally in Arabic or in your native language.

It is also recommended to stipulate the purpose of Ihram while making the intention, specifying whether it is for Hajj or Umrah. If you’re performing Hajj, you should also indicate the type of Hajj you intend to carry out.

The following are some examples of intentions that can be made in Arabic:

Niyyah for Umrah

This Niyyah is to be made if you’re performing Umrah during any time of the year, or Umrah as part of Hajj al-Tamattu. If you’re performing Hajj al-Tamattu, an intention for the Hajj will be made at a later stage.

لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ عُمْرَةً Labbayka llāhumma ‘umratan.

O Allah, here I am to perform Umrah.

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أُرِيْدُ الْعُمْرَةَ Allāhumma innī urīdu l-‘umrata.

O Allah, I intend to perform Umrah.

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أُرِيْدُ الْعُمْرَةَ فَيَسِّرْهَا لِيْ وَتَقَبَّلْهَا مِنِّيْ Allāhumma innī urīdu l-‘umrata fa yassirhā lī wa taqabbalhā minnī.

O Allah, I intend to perform Umrah, so accept it from me and make it easy for me.

After making your intention, recite the Talbiyah.

Words of the Talbiyah

The Sunnah method of reciting the Talbiyah is to briefly pause at four places, indicated by the dashes. The words are as follows:

لَبَّيْكَ اللهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ – لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيْكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ – إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ – لَا شَرِيْكَ لَكَ –

Labbayka llāhumma labbayk(a), labbayka lā sharīka laka labbayk(a), inna l-ḥamda wa n-ni’mata, laka wa l-mulk(a), lā sharīka lak.

At Your service, Allah, at Your service. At Your service, You have no partner, at Your service. Truly all praise, favour and sovereignty is Yours. You have no partner.

Manner of Reciting the Talbiyah

Men should recite the Talbiyah audibly, whereas women should recite it softly to the extent that it is loud enough to be heard by herself or someone next to her. It is Mustahabb to send Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ and to supplicate after reciting the Talbiyah.

When to Recite Talbiyah

The Talbiyah should be recited as much as possible throughout Hajj and Umrah, whether you’re standing or sitting, in a vehicle or walking, whether you’re with or without Wudhu and in the case of women, whether you’re in a state of menstruation or not.

“It is recommended to recite the Talbiyah in the following instances:When boarding or disembarking a vehicle.When ascending or descending (a hill or a valley).When encountering a group of pilgrims.After prayers.During the last part of the night.In the early part of dawn.In the morning and evening.”

Timings of Talbiyah

Umrah pilgrims should start reciting the Talbiyah after Ihram is assumed and continue up until the Hajar al-Aswad is kissed, touched or saluted at the beginning of Tawaf al-Umrah.

Virtues of the Talbiyah

Jabir ibn Abdullah  I  narrates:

There is no Muhrim who exposes himself to the sun all day for the sake of Allah, reciting the Talbiyah until the sun goes down, but his sins will disappear and he will be as he was on the day his mother bore him.

Sahl bin Sa’d  I  narrates:

The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: ‘There is no Muslim who says the Talbiyah except that – on his right and left, until the end of the land, from here to there – the rocks, or trees, or mud say the Talbiyah.

After the Talbiyah

Once the intention has been made and the Talbiyah has been uttered, you will have entered the sacred state of Ihram. A pilgrim in the state of Ihram is known as a Muhrim. As a Muhrim, you must be aware of the prohibitions of Ihram. You must also be conscious and mindful of God on all occasions, exercise patience and exhibit good character.

‘Tawaf’ is an Arabic word that linguistically means ‘to encircle something’ or ‘to walk around.’ It is one of the most essential rites of both, the major pilgrimage (Hajj) and minor pilgrimage (Umrah).

In Islam, Tawaf means encircling the Holy Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise motion, ensuring that each round starts and ends at Hajar-Aswad (Black Stone). Keep reading to learn the types of Tawaf in detail.

What is Tawaf al-Umrah?

• Tawaf al-Umrah is performed by pilgrims who have come to Makkah with the intention to perform Hajj al-Tamattu or Umrah outside of the Hajj season.
•  Tawaf al-Umrah should be performed in the state of Ihram along with Rami and Idtiba. Pilgrims usually carry out the rituals of Tawaf al-Umrah while performing Umrah, after which they perform Sai. Note that your Umrah will be invalid without Tawaf al-Umrah.

How to Perform Tawaf?

The method to perform different types of Tawaf stays the same. We’ll take you through the steps to perform Tawaf, as prescribed by the Holy Prophet s:

• Before heading to Masjid Al-Haram, be sure to observe ablutions, including wudhu and cleaning oneself from all major and minor impurities.
• Both men and women must ensure that their private body parts are covered. For men, this means the part of the body between their navel and knees, while women should have their entire body covered except for the face and hands.
• Enter the state of Ihram at one of the Meeqats. This includes both wearing the Ihram clothing and making the niyat for Umrah or Hajj.
• Whether you intend to perform Umrah or Hajj, you’ll be performing Tawaf right after entering Masjid-Al Haram.
• All pilgrims begin and end their Tawaf at Hajr Al-Aswad (the black stone). Stand facing the Ka’abah with the black stone on your right and make the intention to perform Tawaf solely to please Allah.
• If possible, kiss the sacred stone. If you can’t get close to it due to the crowd or COVID-19 restrictions, stand facing the black stone, anywhere on the Tawaf line and gesture toward the stone with your right hand once. When doing this, recite ‘Bismillahi Wallahu Akbar’ and begin your first circle in the anti-clockwise direction.
• Men should observe Idtiba and Raml. Idtiba is the practice of keeping the right shoulder uncovered during the Tawaf. You’ll be wearing Ihram clothing, so pass the upper Ihram garment from under your right armpit, allowing it to hand from your left shoulder. Raml, on the other hand, is the act of walking quickly (for men) during the first three rounds of Tawaf like a warrior would during a war. This means you’ll lift your legs forcefully and stick out your chest while walking fast. For the rest of the four rounds, you’ll walk in your normal way. Both Idtiba and Raml are the Sunnah of the Prophet s.
• When performing Tawaf, be careful not to enter the Hateem area. This portion forms part of the Holy Ka’abah, which is why you need to be encircling it rather than entering it. Any circle made through the Hateem won’t count as Tawaf.
• While you should complete the Tawaf in a continuous manner, you must join the congregation prayer when it begins, and resume your Tawaf after the prayers. You can continue from where you left; no need to start the rounds all over again.
• One round completes when you return to Hajr Al-Aswad. Every time you reach the black stone, perform Istilam or gesture toward it. Upon returning to the stone after completing seven rounds, you’ll perform the gesture the eighth time.
• Upon completing the Tawaf, leave the state of Idtiba by covering your right shoulder with your Ihram clothing.
• After completing your Tawaf, head to Maqam-e-Ibrahim to offer two rakats Salah al-Tawaf. Since the place is located within Mataf (the area where tawaf is carried out), it may be too crowded to perform salah there. In that case, you may perform Salah al-Tawaf anywhere in Masjid Al-Haram.

Duas to Recite During Tawaf

During your Tawaf, you may recite various duas, supplications, and prayers. Once your Umrah  package is finalised, you should spend the bulk of your time learning the various duas to recite on Umrah. Tawaf is one of the acts of worship when duas are accepted. It’s not necessary to pray in Arabic; you may pray in your own language. However, it’s highly recommended not to miss the duas that the Prophet used to pray. Here are some duas to recite during the Tawaf, as prescribed by the Sunnah of the Prophet:

– – – – –  – – – – –  – – – – –  – – – – –  – – – – –  – – – – –  – – – – –  – – – – –

Dua 1:  When commencing your Tawaf while facing Hajr Al-Aswad, recite the following dua after you’ve made your intention:

Bismillahi Allahu akbar wa lillahil hamd.

Translation :  I begin in the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest, and all Praise be to Allah.

Dua 2: Each time you walk between the Yemeni corner of the Holy Ka’abah and Hajr Al-Aswad, recite the following dua:

Rabbanaa aatina Fiddunya hasanah, wa fil akhirati hasanah, wa qinaa azab annaar.

Translation :  O our Lord! Grant us the best in this life and best in the hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of hellfire.

Sa’i, known in Arabic as السعي, is a crucial ritual in both Hajj and Umrah. It involves the act of walking seven times to and fro between the two hills, Safa and Marwa, which are situated near the Kaaba within Masjid al-Haram.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Importance of Sa’i

The Sa’i ritual is about remembering Hajar, the wife of Ibrahim. She walked back and forth between the Safa and Marwa hills seven times looking for water for her son, Ismail.

Stories, like those written by Nasir al-Din al-Rabghuzi in “Qisas al-Anbiya” (Stories of the Prophets), tell us about Hajar. She was thought to be a princess from Maghreb and related to Prophet Salih. She became a slave when her father was killed by the Egyptian Pharaoh and was given to Sarah, Ibrahim’s wife.

After a while, Sarah, who didn’t have any children, suggested to Ibrahim that he should have a child with Hajar, her slave.

From this, Ismail was born. He would later be known as the father of the Arab people and a forefather of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

After Ismail was born, following God’s instructions, Ibrahim took Hajar and Ismail to Makkah (also called Bakkah), leaving them with just a little food and water.

Significance of Sa’i

Allah says in the Quran:

إِنَّ الصَّفَا وَالْمَرْوَةَ مِن شَعَائِرِ اللَّهِ ۖ فَمَنْ حَجَّ الْبَيْتَ أَوِ اعْتَمَرَ فَلَا جُنَاحَ عَلَيْهِ أَن يَطَّوَّفَ بِهِمَا ۚ وَمَن تَطَوَّعَ خَيْرًا فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ شَاكِرٌ عَلِيمٌ

Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah. So whoever makes Hajj to the House or performs Umrah – there is no blame upon him for walking between them. And whoever volunteers good – then indeed, Allah is appreciative and Knowing – [Surah al-Baqarah, 2:158]

Unlike Tawaf, which is about thinking of Allah, Sa’i represents the constant challenges we face in life, just like Hajar did. But because of her strong faith and trust in Allah (Tawakkul), her prayers were heard, and she got what she needed. For those on pilgrimage, Sa’i is a moment to think deeply and reflect on their place in the world.

When do you do Sa’i?

Sa’i is to be done after Tawaf

For Umrah, do Sa’i right after Tawaf al-Umrah.

In Hajj al-Tamattu, Sa’i happens twice: first following Tawaf al-Umrah and then after Tawaf al-Ziyarah.

For Hajj al-Qiran or Hajj al-Ifrad, do Sa’i after Tawaf al-Qudum or Tawaf al-Ziyarah. If done after Tawaf al-Qudum when you arrive in Makkah, you don’t need to do it again after Tawaf al-Ziyarah.

The Hanafi school says those on Hajj al-Qiran should do Sa’i two times: after Tawaf al-Umrah and then after Tawaf al-Qudum or Tawaf al-Ziyarah.

Before Sa’i, you need to be in Ihram for Hajj or Umrah.Tawaf can be done on its own, even without being in Ihram first. But Sa’i must always come after you’ve entered Ihram for either Hajj or Umrah. This doesn’t mean you have to be in Ihram during Sa’i. For example, Hajj pilgrims can do Sa’i after Tawaf al-Ziyarah on Yawm al-Nahr, even if they’re not in Ihram anymore.

Halq, in Arabic الحلق, is the process of shaving all the hair off the head. Taqsir, or التقصير in Arabic, means cutting at least an inch of hair from the head. Doing either Halq or Taqsir is a Wajib (required) step to end the state of Ihram.

Halq  (shaving) or Taqsir (trimming the hair) is Wajib (obligatory) if you have hair on your head. You won’t be able to leave the state of Ihram until you have performed one of the two.

If you have no hair on your head, simply passing a razor over your head will suffice.

When doing Taqsir, the minimum amount to trim is the length of a fingertip from all ends of the hair (about an inch). To trim a fingertip’s amount is insufficient. The hair should be trimmed until it is certain that the minimum amount has been trimmed.

It is permissible and a common practice to have someone else cut your hair for you. That person doesn’t need to have had their own hair cut before cutting yours.

Men and women may also cut their own hair to come out of Ihram.

Trimming the Hair for Women

Women are not to perform  Halq , i.e. have their heads shaved. The evidence for this is from the following Hadith narrated by Ali  I :

“The Messenger of Allah ﷺ forbade women to shave their heads – <a href="https://sunnah.com/nasai/48/10" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[Narrated in Sunan an-Nasa’i]</a>”

A woman is simply to trim a fingertip’s length, i.e. about an inch from the end of her hair. In the case of a woman’s hair being very short in length, it must still be trimmed in order to leave the state of Ihram.

If you’re performing Umrah or Hajj al-Tamattu, don’t forget to cut your hair prior to coming back to the hotel. Many women forget to do so and incur penalties due to still being in the state of Ihram.

Women in a state of menstruation must also cut their hair.

Completion!

Travel and preparations

You need to declare in a specific form: Any amounts exceeding SAR 60,000, or its equivalent. Gifts in commercial quantities exceeding SAR 3,000. Do not carry banned items. For details, see the list of banned and restricted items on the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority website.

Packing List

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Umrah Preparation

Embarking on Umrah requires spiritual and logistical preparation. This section offers insights and guidelines to ensure you're mentally and physically ready for this sacred journey.

Umrah is a spiritual trip that Muslims take. In Umrah, they follow certain steps. They enter a stage called Ihram, go around a structure known as the Kabah in Makkah, travel between two spots named Safa and Marwah, and then have their hair cut or shortened.

Umrah is highly valued and carries many benefits:

• The Quran, the sacred book for Muslims, emphasises that both Umrah and another pilgrimage called Hajj are vital responsibilities for Muslims. Performing these duties with dedication and sincerity pleases Allah.
• Prophet Muhammad taught that if Muslims perform Hajj and Umrah back-to-back, it can help erase their sins and alleviate their financial difficulties.
• Umrah also serves as a way for Muslims to seek forgiveness for their sins. According to Prophet Muhammad, the period from one Umrah to the next serves as a time of pardon for sins committed in between.
• When Muslims engage in Tawaf, which involves circling the Kabah, every step they take is a step towards goodness and sin removal. This comes from Prophet Muhammad’s teachings about Tawaf.
• When Muslims practice Sai, or moving between Safa and Marwah, Allah values this act. The Quran asserts that when someone willingly performs good actions, Allah is appreciative and fully aware of it.

In summary, Umrah is a spiritual journey that can result in numerous blessings for Muslims. It offers opportunities for doing good, seeking forgiveness, and improving one’s life.

Makkah: The Haram

What is the meaning of ‘haram’ (sanctuary).

‘Haram’ or Sanctuary refers to a unique area where certain activities, usually permitted elsewhere, are disallowed out of profound respect and reverence for God, who set these rules. God said that those who respect these sanctified sites would be rewarded. God selected this land as sacred, with specific rules differing from other locations. It possesses exclusive merits not found anywhere else, and its sanctity dates back to the dawn of the universe.

God declared this land a Sanctuary on the day the universe was created, a status that will endure till the end of time. As the Prophet said: “From the day He created the heavens and the earth, God declared this town a sanctuary. It remains a sanctuary by God’s decree till the end of time.”

What does the Sanctuary mean to you?

You are now in a place that was distinguished and sanctified by God before the creation of humans. It’s the location where God instructed Ibrahim to lay the foundations of the House (Kabah), even before a single soul lived in Makkah. It was chosen to be the Qiblah and guidance for all. In this place, rewards for good deeds are amplified, and sins hold more significance than elsewhere.

God entrusted His noblest humans, Ibrahim and Ismail, and then Muhammad, with the responsibility of purifying, building, and taking care of the Kabah.

Repeat Umrah

Carrying out the Umrah, a holy pilgrimage, is considered one of the noblest deeds in the eyes of Allah. The Prophet Muhammad expressed: “One Umrah serves as atonement for the sins committed between it and the previous one. It’s also permissible to do it more than once in a year.”

Is it recommended to do multiple Umrahs in a single journey?

Some visitors to Makkah aim to do Umrah multiple times, either for themselves or on behalf of relatives. They may do this because they’re uncertain about returning to Makkah. This is allowed as long as it doesn’t disrupt other pilgrims or breach the rules and regulations of the official Umrah process.

How do I complete a second or repeat Umrah?

To do repeat Umrah, Pilgrims need to travel to the closest place outside the Haram, such as Aishah’s mosque in Al Taneem, Makkah. From there, they can enter the state of Ihram as normal and begin the next Umrah.

<br /> It is better for the pilgrim to choose the less crowded times so that they can perform the rituals of Umrah, go near the Haram, and pray there with ease<br />

<br /> There is a special merit for Umrah in the month of Ramadan. The Prophet’s blessings and peace be upon him said: “Performance of Umrah during Ramadan is equal to Hajj”, or he said: “Equal to the performance of Hajj with me”. It is better for the pilgrim to choose the less crowded times so that they can perform the rituals of Umrah, go near the Haram, and pray there with ease<br />

<br /> Pilgrims must perform Umrah at the time allotted to them, according to their reservations on the official Umrah apps.<br />

<br /> Umrah is not allowed during the Hajj season, for those who do not intend to combine it with Hajj, to keep the Sacred sites available for pilgrims, because they are more deserving of those sites than others at that time.

Umrah is always a meaningful deed. It’s known to cleanse sins, as highlighted by the Prophet Muhammad. Its significance is even more pronounced during the holy month of Ramadan.

Rewards for carrying out Umrah in Ramadan

The Prophet Muhammad stated: “Performing Umrah in Ramadan is equivalent to performing Hajj,” or he said, “It’s as if you’ve done Hajj with me.” This merit applies to all the days and nights of Ramadan.

Pilgrims should adhere to their allotted schedule for Umrah, as indicated in their official Umrah reservations.

The Nusuk App is responsible for managing Umrah bookings and visitation to the Rawdah for Umrah.

After downloading the app, you must first create an account. To create an account, follow these steps:

• Open your Nusuk App
• Select your language
• Select the ‘Visitor’ account if you are an international visitor
• Enter all the required details
• Create a password
• Tick the box to agree with the terms and conditions
• Click the ‘Register’ button
• Enter the OTP that has been sent to your SMS

Once you have created an account, the next thing you should do is book your Umrah permit:

• Go to homepage
• Choose the Umrah category
• Choose the date and time of your Umrah from the provided calendar on the app
• Click the ‘continue’ button

You will be able to view your Umrah details afterwards. The details include the reservation and permit number, a QR Code of the permit and the date and time slot. It is advised that visitors choose timings with fewer crowds, which are indicated by green colours on the calendar.

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Navigating travel for Umrah can be daunting. Here, we simplify the process, providing essential tips and recommendations for a smooth pilgrimage journey.

Landing at the airport

• You can get a trolley to carry your luggage
• There are trolley attendants to load and unload your luggage for a specified fee
• The Hajj missions arrange pilgrims’ exit from the airport in coordination with the concerned airport authorities, determine the bus stop where they are helped to board and their luggage get transferred To go through the airport customs smoothly, using the relevant declaration form disclose the following:
• Gifts in commercial quantities i.e. sums exceeding SAR 3,000
• Any amounts exceeding SAR 60,000
• To guarantee convenient arrival and departure of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah provides the best services at its various facilities during Hajj and Umrah seasons.

Hiring private cars

If you come to Makkah to perform Umrah on your own or rented car:

• Remember that you cannot drive in Makkah neighborhoods during the Hajj season and in the last ten days of Ramadan as this restriction is imposed to prevent traffic jams
• You will be asked to park your car in a parking lot in the Holy Capital (Makkah) Car parking in Makkah

• Al-Haramain High Express Railway station parking lot
• Az-Zaher Parking
• Keddi Parking
• Al-Jamarat Parking
• Ar-Rusaifah Parking
• Duqm Al-Waber Car Parking
• Prince Mit’ib Rd. Parking (Refinery tunnels)
• Buses are available to transport Hajj and Umrah pilgrims from these parking lots directly to the Grand Mosque.
| Before you travel by car, make sure to:

• Check and change fluids, if necessary
• Check brakes, lights, and tires
• Take a spare tire
• Take enough rest before and during the trip

Travelling by land

Umrah pilgrims residing in adjacent countries are allowed to enter the Kingdom through land ports on their own or rented cars. They may also enter through land ports using means of transportation licensed to external agents only.

Residents and local citizens intending to do Hajj or Umrah can travel by public transport buses. They can also drive to Makkah after obtaining a permit to perform Umrah. However, small cars are banned from entering Makkah before the start of the Hajj season and on the last ten days of Ramadan unless they have an official entry permit.

At entrances to Makkah, there are 7 parking lots able to accommodate 50,000 cars of Umrah pilgrims. You will be asked to park your car in a parking lot in the Holy Capital (Makkah). At these parking lots, buses transport Hajj and Umrah pilgrims directly to the Grand Mosque.

Umrah Sites

Explore the sacred sites of Umrah, each brimming with rich history and spiritual significance. From Masjid al-Haram to Safa and Marwah, discover the stories and importance of each landmark on this enlightening pilgrimage journey.

Masjid Al Haram

Located in Makkah, Masjid Al Haram is Islam’s holiest mosque, housing the Kaaba. Established by Prophets Ibrahim and Ismail, it’s a focal point for Muslims worldwide. During Umrah, pilgrims perform the Tawaf here, circumambulating the Kabah seven times.

The Kabah, a cubic edifice within Masjid Al Haram, was constructed by Prophets Ibrahim and Ismail. As Islam’s central point of worship, Muslims globally direct their prayers towards it. It’s the primary focus during Umrah, as pilgrims circumambulate it during Tawaf.

Well of ZamZam

Emerging during Prophet Ibrahim’s era, the Well of ZamZam recalls Hagar’s frantic search for water for her son, Ismail. After the Sa’i ritual of Umrah, participants often drink from this well, seeking its blessings.

Station of Ibrahim

Adjacent to the Kaaba, the Station of Ibrahim displays a stone bearing Prophet Ibrahim’s footprint. It’s a poignant reminder of his dedication. During Umrah, after Tawaf, pilgrims often pray behind this station, commemorating Ibrahim’s devotion.

Mount Safa and Marwah

These mounts in Makkah are pivotal to Hajj and Umrah, echoing Hagar’s desperate quest for water for her son. The Sa’i ritual of Umrah involves pilgrims walking between these mounts, symbolizing faith and endurance.

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A step by step Guide on How to Perform Umrah

Step by step guide to performing an umrah.

Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage and is, in short, an act of worship of Allah (SWT). It is based on the teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and his Sunnah. The pilgrimage is a visit to the House of Allah (SWT) and can be carried out any time of the year. It is known as a ‘minor pilgrimage’ in comparison to the ‘greater pilgrimage’ of Hajj. However, it holds great value and virtue in the eyes of Allah (SWT).

The Umrah comprises of four basic pillars:

1)       Ihram

Ihram is essentially making the formal ‘intention’ of performing the Umrah. In order to enter the fold of Ihram, the individual must change clothes and take a proper bath (ghusl) which showcases an act of washing away all impurities. Men change into the two fabrics, Ridaa and Izaar, whereas women can wear any form of clothing which covers the body and head. Women who are menstruating or experiencing postnatal bleeding are also advised to perform ghusl.

Upon the cleansing, the individual should perform the obligatory prayers or offer two rakaat of Sunnah prayer. Once that is done, the individual should face the direction of the Qibla and officially enter Ihram – the individual must enter Ihram before he/she leaves for the Meeqat in Makkah. Perfume or perfumed products are strictly prohibited while a person is in his/her Ihram.

At the Meeqat, the pilgrim must make the intention and recite the words:

               “Labbayk Allaahumma bi ‘Umrah ”               (Here I am, O Allah, for ‘Umrah)

After this, he/she should recite the Talbiyah , in line with the Sunnah:

 “ Labbayka Allaahumma labbayk, labbayka laa shareeka laka labbayk. Inna al-hamd wa’l-ni’mata laka wa’l-mulk, laa shareeka lak”

(Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily all praise and blessings are Yours, and all sovereignty, You have no partner).”

It is advised that the individual keep reciting the Talbiyah from the moment he/she enters Ihram until he/she gets to the performance of the Tawaaf.

2)       Tawaaf (around the House of Allah (SWT))

The pilgrim must then enter Masjid al-Haram, and that too with his/her right foot and recite:

“ Bismillaah wa’l-salaatu wa’l-salaam ‘ala Rasool-Allaah. Allaahumma ighfir li dhunoobi waftah li abwaab rahmatika. A’oodhu Billaah il-‘Azeem wa bi wajhih il-kareem wa bi sultaanih il-‘qadeem min al-Shaytaan il-rajeem”

(In the name of Allah, and blessings and peace be upon the Messenger of Allah. O Allah, forgive me my sins and open to me the gates of Your mercy. I seek refuge with Allah the Almighty and in His noble Countenance and His eternal power from the accursed Satan).”

The pilgrim can then touch the Black Stone (Hajr e Aswad) and start the Tawaaf. Ideally, the pilgrim should touch it with his right hand and then kiss it. If, however, he/she is unable to kiss it directly, he/she can touch it with his/her hand then kiss his/her hand. There is great virtue in touching the Black Stone. If he/she cannot even touch the stone with his/her hand, the pilgrim should face his/her hand in the direction of the stone and say “Allahu Akbar”. Then the pilgrim starts the Tawaaf – taking rounds around the Ka’bah, with the Ka’bah being on their left. One must be careful not to touch the cloth of the Ka’bah during Tawaaf as it is perfumed and touching it might rub off some of the perfume onto you making the state of Ihram void.

Men must keep the right shoulder uncovered during the Tawaaf, which is known as Idtibaa. This is done by placing the Ridaa beneath the right armpit and taking it up on the left shoulder. Moreover, the men must practice ‘raml’ in the first three rounds of Tawaaf, which is essentially walking fast while taking small steps. For the rest of the rounds, they can walk on their normal place.

Upon finishing the seven rounds of Tawaaf, the pilgrim must then go to the station of Ibrahim (Maqaam e Ibrahim) and recite the following words:

“And take you (people) the Maqaam (place) of Ibraaheem (Abraham) [or the stone on which Ibraaheem (Abraham) stood while he was building the Ka’bah] as a place of prayer (for some of your prayers, e.g. two Rak‘at after the Tawaaf of the Ka’bah at Makkah)” ( Surah Baqarah:125 )

The pilgrim should then offer two rakaat of prayer behind Maqaam e Ibrahim. If that is proving difficult, the pilgrim can offer the prayers in any spot of the mosque. During the first rakah, Surah Al-Kafirun (109) is recited and for the second rakah, Surah Al-Ikhlaas (112) is recited. Upon offering the prayer, the individual should head back to the Black Stone and touch it if possible.

3)       Saa’i between Safa and Marwah

The pilgrim should then head for the place of Saa’i (Masaa) and when he/she nears the hill of Safa, the following should be recited:

“Verily, As-Safa and Al-Marwah (two mountains in Mecca) are of the Symbols of Allah” ( Surah Baqarah:158 )

“Nabda’u bima bada’a Allaah bihi”

(We start with that with which Allah started)

The pilgrim must then climb up on the Safa hill to a point from where the Ka’bah is visible. He/she should face the Ka’bah, raise his/her hand and supplicate to Allah (SWT). The pilgrim is free to make whatever dua he/she desires. According to a hadith, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) recited the following dua as praise:

“Laa ilaaha ill-Allah wahdahu laa shareeka lah, lahu’l-mulk, wa lahu’l-hamd, wa huwa ‘ala kulli shay’in qadeer. Laa ilaaha ill-Allah wahdah, anjaza wa’dah, wa nasara ‘abdah, wa hazamaa al-ahzaaba wahdah”

(There is no god but Allah alone, with no partner or associate; His is the Dominion, all praise is due to Him, and He is able to do all things. There is no god but Allah alone; he fulfilled His promise, granted victory to His slave, and defeated the confederates alone).” (Sahih Muslim, 1218)

The pilgrim should repeat this 3 times; do dhikr, supplicate, do dhikr, supplicate (and so on). Then the pilgrim should descend down to Marwah and the men are to run between the green lights. The distance is marked by two green markers – the men should run till the second marker and then walk up normally to the hill of Marwah and climb up. There, the pilgrim must face the Qibla and recite what he/she said at Safa. After that, the pilgrim must descend again and head towards Safa. Upon reaching Safa, the pilgrim must repeat what he/she did the first time and repeat the same when he/she goes back to Marwah for seven circuits (One circuit is from Safa to Marwah).

4)            Shaving the head/Cutting of Hair

Lastly, upon the completion of the seven circuits, the pilgrim is required to cut his/her hair. The men are required to shave their heads or cut their hair on their entire head equally. The women are required to cut their hair equal to the length of a fingertip.

With this last act, the pilgrim officially completes his/her Umrah.

Hopefully, this article will prove to be useful to those planning on performing the Umrah soon. May Allah (SWT) accept your duas and good deeds. Ameen!

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Embark on a transformative spiritual journey with an unforgettable Umrah experience meticulously planned with our comprehensive guide. Discover the best cheap Umrah packages from the USA 2024 and navigate the intricacies of this sacred pilgrimage effortlessly.

Choosing the Right Umrah Package:

Explore a wide range of Umrah packages tailored to your preferences and budget. Consider factors such as departure city, travel dates, hotel accommodations, and desired amenities to find the perfect fit for your needs.

Essential Preparations:

Secure your passport and obtain the necessary visa. Check visa requirements based on nationality and ensure they’re valid for your stay. Pack light clothing, comfortable shoes, and essential toiletries. Remember to carry religious attire and a prayer mat.

Planning Your Itinerary:

Determine the duration of your Umrah and plan your itinerary accordingly. Allocate ample time for performing the rituals, visiting sacred sites, and experiencing the local culture. Consider extending your stay to explore other historical and religious landmarks in Saudi Arabia.

Health and Safety Considerations:

Ensure you’re physically and mentally prepared for the rigors of Umrah. Pack necessary medications and consult a healthcare professional for health concerns. Familiarize yourself with local health and safety guidelines, including COVID-19 protocols.

Arrival in Saudi Arabia:

Upon arrival, proceed through immigration and customs formalities. Arrange airport transfers to your hotel in Mecca. Check-in and familiarize yourself with the surroundings. Visit the Grand Mosque and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere.

Performing the Umrah Rituals:

Follow the prescribed steps of Umrah, including Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, and Halq/Taqsir. Seek guidance from experienced pilgrims or religious authorities to execute the rituals properly.

Exploring Mecca and Medina:

Beyond the rituals, explore Mecca and Medina’s rich history and culture. Visit Mount Arafat, Jabal Al-Rahmah, and other significant sites. 

Returning Home:

After a fulfilling umrah:.

• Prepare for your departure.
• Pack your belongings and ensure you have all the necessary travel documents.
• Reflect on the spiritual experience and cherish the memories.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Umrah:

– Book your trip well in advance, especially during peak season.

– Choose a reputable tour operator with a proven track record.

– Learn basic Arabic phrases for smoother communication.

– Respect local customs and traditions.

– Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

– Seek assistance from fellow pilgrims or Umrah guides if needed.

Conclusion:

You can embark on an enriching and memorable Umrah journey with careful planning and preparation. Utilize our comprehensive guide, explore cheap Umrah packages from the USA 2024, and immerse yourself in the spiritual essence of this sacred pilgrimage. May your Umrah be a transformative experience that deepens your faith and brings lasting blessings.

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Essential Umrah Travel Tips: A Guide for a Memorable Journey

• November 2, 2023
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Undertaking the sacred pilgrimage of Umrah is a cherished dream for Muslims worldwide. This spiritual journey to the holy cities of Mecca and Madinah requires meticulous planning and preparation to ensure a smooth and rewarding experience. Whether you are a first-time pilgrim or have performed Umrah before, these Umrah travel tips will help you make the most of your journey. From general advice to specific tips for women and children, this article aims to provide you with valuable insights to enhance your Umrah experience.

7 Umrah Travel Tips

1. research and plan ahead: .

Begin your preparations well in advance by researching the rituals, accommodation options, transportation, and other essential aspects of Umrah. Make a detailed itinerary and ensure you have all necessary documents, such as visas and identification.

2. Choose the Right Time:

Consider the time of year when planning your Umrah trip . Avoid peak seasons to prevent overcrowding and ensure a more comfortable experience. The months outside Ramadan offer less congestion and more manageable weather conditions.

3. Pack Wisely: 

Pack modest and comfortable clothing suitable for the holy sites and the climate. Don’t forget to carry essential items such as toiletries, medication, and a copy of the Quran . 

Remember to keep your luggage lightweight and manageable.

4. Be Mindful of Health and Hygiene:

Prioritize your health during the journey. Stay hydrated, maintain a balanced diet, and get enough rest. Follow proper hygiene practices, including regular handwashing, using hand sanitizers, and avoiding crowded places to minimize the risk of illnesses.

5. Learn the Rituals: 

Familiarize yourself with the rituals of Umrah, such as Tawaf , Sa’i, and the cutting of hair. Seek guidance from knowledgeable individuals or attend pre-Umrah seminars to understand the significance and correct procedures for each ritual.

6. Stay Connected: 

Carry a mobile phone with reliable international roaming or purchase a local SIM card to stay connected with your loved ones and have access to emergency services. Utilize apps and online resources that offer prayer timings, maps, and guidance during your journey.

7. Embrace Patience and Positivity: 

The Umrah can be physically and emotionally demanding. Be prepared to encounter long queues, delays, and crowded spaces. 

Additionally, Maintain a positive mindset, exercise patience, and seek solace in the spiritual atmosphere that surrounds you.

Umrah Travel Tips for Women

Firstly, dress modestly: .

Women should adhere to the Islamic dress code by wearing loose-fitting and non-transparent clothing that covers the entire body. 

Consider carrying a lightweight abaya or scarf to maintain modesty and respect local customs.

Secondly, Be Aware of Prayer Facilities: 

The Women should familiarize themselves with designated prayer areas and facilities available to them in the holy sites . These spaces are designed to accommodate female worshippers and offer a comfortable environment for prayer and reflection.

Lastly, Prioritize Safety:

Those traveling alone should exercise caution and avoid isolated areas, especially during late hours. Stay in well-known and reputable accommodations.

Moreover, inform family or friends about your whereabouts for added security.

Tips for Umrah Travel for Kids

• Firstly, Prepare Children Emotionally: 

Talk to your children about the significance of Umrah and the rituals involved. Help them develop a sense of excitement and anticipation for the journey. 

• Secondly, Pack Essentials for Kids: 

Remember to pack necessary items for children, such as comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, toys, snacks, and any specific medication they may require. 

Carrying their favorite items can help them feel secure and content during the journey.

• Thirdly, Engage in Educational Activities:

Encourage children to engage in educational activities related to Umrah. Visit historical sites, narrate stories about the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), and involve them in age-appropriate rituals to deepen their connection with the pilgrimage.

• Lastly, Maintain a Routine: 

Children thrive on routine. Try to maintain regular meal times, prayer times , and sleep schedules during the journey. This will help them adapt to the new environment more easily and minimize disruptions to their daily routine.

In conclusion, Embarking on the sacred journey of Umrah is a profound experience filled with spiritual significance. By following these travel tips, you can make your pilgrimage more comfortable, meaningful, and enjoyable. Whether you are a first-time pilgrim or have performed Umrah before, thorough planning, adherence to Islamic principles, and embracing patience will contribute to a transformative journey that will stay with you for a lifetime.

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Millions of people from around the world undertake the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca every year. Umrah is a pilgrimage that can be completed at any time of the year. 

Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah offers an electronic portal for Hajj registration and bookings. The portal allows for electronic Hajj visa applications and provides additional information, such as an FAQ page and awareness guides.

In order to participate in Hajj, U.S. citizens must have a permit issued through the Saudi Arabian Ministry Website. That rule applies whether you are visiting or living in Saudi Arabia.  If you participate in Hajj without a permit, you may be deported, detained, fined, or banned from future visits to Saudi Arabia.

Refer to https://hajj.nusuk.sa/ for all related information, including required vaccines and medical insurance, specific mobile apps needed to enter holy sites, and other details. Please also see the current Travel Advisory and Country Information page for Saudi Arabia.

Note: Once you arrive in Mecca for Hajj, you must get permission from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah before leaving Saudi Arabia. This rule applies until Hajj is over.

Personal Security

Travelers seeking to perform Hajj and Umrah are often targets for scammers. Watch out for dishonest guides or people pretending to be tour operators, who may leave pilgrims stranded without paying their bills. Also, be cautious of hotels that demand fees to return passports.

There are reports of pickpocketing, theft, and other crime in Mecca, particularly in the area of the Grand Mosque. There are also reports of crime in Medina, where there are large crowds of people. Always carry contact information for your hotel and tour operator.

Keep travel documents (your U.S. passport or U.S. “green card” residency permit) secure during your trip.  Make two copies of your passport—including pages stamped with Saudi visas—with one saved digitally and the other in a safe place while you travel.

Emergency Contact Information for U.S. Citizens

• U.S. Embassy Riyadh: (966) (11) 835-4000
• U.S. Consulate General Jeddah: (966) (12) 220-5000
• U.S. Consulate General Dhahran: (966) (13) 839-5700

Between 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. local time in Saudi Arabia, Sunday through Thursday, ask for the American Citizen Services Unit. For emergency cases outside of those hours or during holidays,  use the same numbers listed above to reach a duty officer for assistance.

Visa Information

The Hijri calendar is used in Saudi Arabia for all official functions.  Please review the dates on your visa carefully, and make sure you know when it expires.

Do not overstay your Hajj or Umrah visa . If you stay in Saudi Arabia longer than you are allowed, you may have to pay fines in order to depart the country.  Fines can be thousands of dollars. You might also be held in detention until your deportation proceedings. Additionally, you could be banned from returning to Saudi Arabia in the future.

Permitted areas of travel and duration of stay:   If you are unsure, ask Saudi airport officials or the Passport Office (jawazat) for clarification upon arrival.

• Hajj and Umrah (pilgrimage) visas are  not valid for work or residency .
• Non-Muslims are forbidden to travel to Mecca and the portions of Medina which are considered sacred.
• All pilgrims visiting for Hajj must leave Saudi Arabia after the completion of Hajj.

Women Pilgrims

Women can register for Hajj without a male guardian if they go in a group with other women.

Travelers With Disabilities

Be prepared for standards of accessibility and accommodation below the minimum of what is required in the United States. While most of the Holy Sites, such as the Grand Mosque in Mecca, are accessible to disabled people , most hotels and transportation options are not. Check with your tour group provider to ensure your needs are well known and can be accommodated.

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You are not allowed to take photos (still or video, even with your phone) at the Holy Mosque in Mecca or the Prophet's Mosque in Medina. If you break this rule, your device may be taken away.

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Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

Follow us on Twitter  @KSA_ACS  and  @TravelGov  as well as the U.S. Mission Saudi Arabia ,  Consulate General Jeddah , and Bureau of Consular Affairs Facebook pages.

Emergency Contact Information for Hajj Authorities

• The National Tawafa Company for Pilgrims of Turkey and Muslims of Europe, Americas, and Australia Telephone: +966-920-012-013 Fax:  966-920-006-620 Website:   http://www.teaa.com.sa/   Street Address: Mecca Al Mukarramah, Al Nuzha Road, near Alnuzha Bridge
• Health Affairs : 012-530-8812
• Lost Pilgrims: 012-530-8813
• Emergency Services : For all emergencies including ambulance service call 911.

What The United States Government Can and Cannot Do

We hope you have a trouble-free hajj or umrah like thousands of other pilgrims from the united states do every year. if something goes wrong, u.s. embassy riyadh and consulate general jeddah can help you with consular services, such as:.

• Arranging for emergency U.S. passports and “boarding foils” for lost I-551 (“green cards”) for U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents. After Hajj, please bring a report from the police station regarding the theft or loss, and a copy of your U.S. passport or green card if possible.
• Seeking to contact you within 24 hours of being told that you have been arrested . 
• Providing contact information for local lawyers and hospitals.
• Arranging for a spouse or next of kin to be informed if you are involved in an accident, are arrested, or die, and advising them on the appropriate procedures.

The U.S. government cannot:

• Arrange for travel outside of the designated areas in Mecca and Medina.
• Resolve alleged or actual immigration violations.
• Become involved in any disputes involving a travel agency, hotel, airline, or any other service provider.
• Manage airline, hotel, or other travel bookings.
• Pay for hotel, legal, medical, travel, or other bills.
• Obtain your release from prison.
• Provide legal advice or intervene in court cases or criminal investigations.

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Umrah Essentials : A Complete Checklist For First-Time Pilgrims

Each year, Muslims from across the globe undertake the spiritual journey of Umrah to the holy city of Makkah. Known to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, this beautiful and sacred journey should be performed without any hassle or tension. The first step for this is to prepare a packing guide and checklist of Umrah essentials well in advance. From reservations to essentials for Umrah – planning beforehand is the right way to make it successful.

There are plenty of necessary items, which are required on this umrah trip to the house of Allah. Not everyone can have clarity and complete understanding of how to prepare and what to pack for Umrah. To help you put together an Umrah essentials list, here’s a quick umrah guide checklist of necessary items that’ll make your experience memorable and comfortable.

Umrah Essentials Guide

For a pilgrimage, apart from being physically fit, one needs to be mentally relaxed too. Therefore, it is best to organise everything before embarking on the beautiful journey of Umrah. Below is a comprehensive guide of indispensable items required for the Umrah journey .

1. Travel documents: Keep them on top while packing essentials for Umrah

Important travel documents include:

• Passport and its photocopies
• Flight tickets
• Vaccination certificates
• Hotel booking confirmation copies
• Receipts of payments made for Umrah
• Passport size photographs
• Relationship certificate (in case, you are travelling with your spouse)
• Saudi Riyals
• Debit/Credit card
• Travel itinerary
• Emergency contact numbers

2. Prayer essentials for Umrah: Clothes & footwear for key rituals

Ihram is the dress code for the Umrah pilgrimage, which is why packing suitable clothing is one of the most important things to do before the commencement of the journey. For men and women, Ihram is two pieces of unstitched plain white cloth. Women are also allowed to wear regular clothing, which conceals the entire body with only hands and face uncovered.

While planning the Umrah pilgrimage , packing the pocket Quran is of great importance too. This is because, during spare time, one can easily read the holy book. Also, there are a number of pocket-sized dua books available that contain prayers from the Quran and Sunnah, which can be recited during the journey. Furthermore, while changing flights or moving from one place to another, pilgrims can keep themselves occupied in Dhikr: remembrance of Allah , which makes packing Tasbeeh beads absolutely significant. Some other essentials for Umrah include a prayer mat, compass for the Qibla and Umrah guide book.

3. Clothing and accessories: Pick them based on travel time & weather

People come to Makkah to perform Umrah from different parts of the world. Usually, that includes long flight and road travel which can be tiring. Therefore it is important to wear and pack clothes that are light in weight and super comfortable. Another important factor to consider is the weather in Makkah. Even though Makkah is hot most of the year, it is important to pack and prepare according to the month of travel. Choose light colours and breathable fabrics that would not irritate your skin even in scorching heat.

In Saudi Arabia, it is advised to dress conservatively so as to not hurt the cultural sentiments of the locals. Men usually wear formal clothes – shirt and trousers, while women prefer to wear salwar kameez or abaya.

For both men and women, some key essentials for Umrah include two or three pairs of comfortable shoes, waist pouch, bathroom slippers, string bag, light jumper, sunglasses, safety pins, prayer hat and folding umbrella. Apart from the above-mentioned items, there are some other Umrah essentials for ladies as well, which include:

• Five to ten light and breathable hijabs
• Hijab undercaps
• Hair accessories
• Slips or light clothing for wearing under abaya
• Light pyjamas
• Blister patches

4. Basic First-aid Kit: Just in case

Basic medicines and first-aid items are also important parts of the Umrah essentials list. These include cold and flu relief drugs, pain-relief tablets, travel sickness medications, cough syrups/throat lozenges, diarrhoea tablets, bandages, fragrance-free sunblock, cotton, antiseptic cream, muscle pain relief creams, oral rehydration salts and antibiotics. In light of COVID-19 precautionary guidelines, also carry masks and sanitiser bottles.

5. Self-care essentials: Everyday items for the Umrah journey

Self care essentials can include a lot of things ranging from hygiene essentials to vanity products. These may include:

• Large and small towels
• Toothpaste (Fragrance-free for Ihram)
• Unscented shampoo and conditioner
• Fragrance-free soap (bar or liquid form)
• Pocket tissues
• Fragrance-free wet wipes for Ihram
• Hand sanitiser
• Hairbrush/comb (only to be used outside the Ihram state)
• Anti-perspirant
• Small mirror
• Nail cutter
• Small scissors
• Razors or shaving machine
• Sanitary pads
• Unscented moisturiser or cream
• Toiletries bag
• Alarm clock
• Notebook and pen
• Empty water bottle for filling it with ZamZam as it is important to remain properly hydrated at all times.
• Sleeping accessories (including inflatable pillow, bedsheet and a sleeping bag)
• Snacks and packets of juices

6. Electronics: A few gadgets that you will need on the go

Carrying a smartphone is important for the Umrah journey as it helps pilgrims stay in touch with their families and friends. However, before embarking on the journey, it is important to ensure that the phone is unlocked. It is also advisable to purchase local sim cards at the earliest. Some other packing essentials for Umrah are a universal travel adaptor, mobile phone charger, power bank, kindle or tablet, headphones/earphones, wristwatch and flashlight.

Umrah being a major religious journey in Islam should be conducted with great sincerity. Therefore, one should not miss out on any essential components and prepare for the journey in advance. One can take help from online guides and Ministry of Hajj and Umrah sites to get updates on the latest circulars and dates for Umrah.

A travel list is never complete. So if you think we have missed an indispensable Umrah essential, please let us know in the comments below.

Umrah Essentials FAQs

What things are needed for umrah.

These include Passport (and its photocopies), Flight tickets, Identity Proofs (and photocopies), Certificates of vaccinations done, Hotel booking vouchers, Transport vouchers, Receipts of payments made for Hajj/Umrah, Relationship certificate if traveling with a companion.

What do you wear for Umrah?

Prior to going into Ihram (a condition of blessedness during Hajj and Umrah), Muslim men commonly wear Western apparel or conventional clothing from their nations of origin. Ladies should dress safely in long, baggy attire, and cover their hair with a hijab rather than a free scarf.

What is the process of Umrah?

Umrah expects Muslims to perform two key ceremonies, Tawaf and Saee. Tawaf is a circle around the Kaaba. This is trailed by Saee among Safa and Marwah in the Great Mosque of Makkah, a stroll to celebrate Hagar quest for water for her child and God kindness in noting supplications.

How many days does it take to do Umrah?

The whole custom should take somewhere in the range of 3 and 6 hours. However, no Umrah bundle goes on for under seven days. You become the visitor of your Supreme Creator for somewhere around a week and for up to 90 days, the most extreme permitted stay on an Umrah visa.

Can one carry scented soaps and perfumes on Umrah?

No, one should carry unscented soaps on the journey of Umrah.

How should one dress up for Umrah?

One should make sure to dress according to the guidelines provided by the authority of Umrah and should not wear revealing clothes.

Dr Omar Ayoub

Dr. Omar Ayoub is a tech enthusiast and a part time researcher and accounts authorship of several international publications. He holds a PhD in Computer Science from USA and has an experience of more than 10 years in Saudi Arabia working in tourism, hospitality, education, technology and retail sector. His interests include traveling, writing, and exploring trending technologies.

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Information for Travellers During COVID-19

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Saudi Arabia: Any visa holder can now perform Umrah

Pilgrims encouraged to utilise Nusuk app to obtain Umrah permit, adhere to ritual timings

Cairo: Saudi Arabia has announced that individuals holding various types of visas are now permitted to undertake Umrah, the minor pilgrimage, with ease.

“Arrivals from anywhere and with any visa can perform Umrah with ease and comfort,” the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said in an X post.

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The ministry emphasized that Umrah rituals are accessible to holders of all visas, including personal, family, transit, labor, and e-visas.

“Whatever the type of your visa, you can do Umrah,” it added.

Pilgrims are encouraged to utilize the Nusuk app to obtain an Umrah permit and adhere to designated timings for the rituals at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Islam’s holiest site.

• First Iran group in nine years heads to Saudi Arabia for Umrah pilgrimage
• Saudi Arabia sets deadline for Umrah pilgrims to depart kingdom
• Saudi Arabia launches multilingual call centre ‘1966’ for pilgrims
• 12.5 million used Saudi Arabia’s airports via 86,000 flights in Ramadan

The Nusuk platform facilitates various procedures, including accommodation arrangements, for Muslims planning to perform Umrah and visit Medina, Islam’s second holiest site.

In recent months, the kingdom has introduced a host of facilities for overseas Muslims to come to the country to perform Umrah.

These initiatives aim to accommodate millions of Muslims worldwide who undertake Umrah, especially those who may not be able to participate in the annual Hajj pilgrimage due to physical or financial constraints.

Recent enhancements include extending the Umrah visa duration from 30 to 90 days, allowing entry via all land, air, and sea ports, and eliminating the requirement for women pilgrims to be accompanied by male guardians. Additionally, expatriates in Gulf Cooperation Council countries and holders of Schengen, US, and UK visas can now book Umrah appointments via the Nusuk app before arriving in Saudi Arabia.

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Your journey will inevitably involve a great deal of travelling. Find out about what to expect when travelling here.

The Journey

During your journey to the sacred cities of Makkah and Madinah, you should remain engaged in the remembrance of Allah and his Messenger ﷺ.

Dua for Travelling

The are a number of supplications pertaining to travel that you should endeavour to read during your journey.

Miqat (Arabic: ميقات) refers to the boundary where it becomes necessary for pilgrims to adorn the Ihram garments and impermissible to pass except in the state of Ihram. Those who cross the boundary without having...

Arriving in Saudi Arabia

Upon arriving in Saudi Arabia, you will have to go through a number of procedures at the airport before being allowed to make your way to Makkah or Madinah.

Travelling Within the Kingdom

If you're performing Hajj, travel within the Kingdom will be restricted. Those of you performing Umrah may choose how you want to travel between cities.

HajjUmrahPlanner.com is a project dedicated to educating prospective pilgrims and providing resources that will be of great assistance before and during Hajj and Umrah. Read more .

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• Preparation
• Introduction
• The Journey to Makkah
• Entering Makkah & Umrah
• Days of Hajj
• The Return Journey
• Madinah Map
• Jannat al-Baqi Map

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