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Guide to Umrah Hajj

Guide to Umrah & Hajj

Home / Guide to Umrah & Hajj
Guide to Umrah & Hajj

Everything You Need to Know for Hajj & Umrah

Embarking on Hajj or Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey, and preparation is key to ensuring a smooth pilgrimage. At Madina Travels, we guide you through every step of the process. Our comprehensive services cover flight bookings, visa assistance, hotel accommodations, transport, and Ziyarah. We offer expert advice on the rituals, including the proper way to wear Ihram, perform Tawaf, and carry out essential prayers. Our experienced team is always available to answer your questions, ensuring your pilgrimage is spiritually fulfilling and hassle-free. Let us help you make your journey a memorable one.

Step-by-Step Guide for Umrah

Intention (Niyyah)

Begin with a sincere intention for Umrah, seeking only Allah’s pleasure. This step is essential as every act of worship is based on intention. Ensure your heart is pure, and you are mentally and spiritually prepared for the pilgrimage.

Ihram

Wear the Ihram clothing before reaching the Miqat and enter the state of Ihram with the intention of Umrah. Recite Talbiyah (“Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk”) and maintain a state of purity by avoiding forbidden acts.

Tawaf

Upon arriving at the Kaaba, perform Tawaf by walking seven times counterclockwise around it. Keep a state of humility and devotion, reciting supplications and making duas as you circle the Kaaba.

Safa and Marwah

After Tawaf, walk between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times, following the footsteps of Hajar (AS). Reflect on her devotion and perseverance while making supplications throughout the ritual.

Shaving/Cutting Hair

Men must shave their heads completely or trim their hair, while women trim a small portion. This act signifies humility and the completion of Umrah. Once done, you can exit the state of Ihram, completing your Umrah.

Tawaf al-Wada

Before leaving Mecca, perform a farewell Tawaf, walking seven times around the Kaaba one last time. Express gratitude and pray for your Umrah to be accepted by Allah (SWT).

Step-by-Step Guide for Hajj

Arrival and Ihram

Before entering Mecca, pilgrims must wear Ihram, a state of purity signified by special clothing. Men wear two white, unstitched cloths, while women wear modest attire. Recite Talbiyah and make your intention for Hajj, ensuring spiritual focus as you begin your sacred journey.

Day of Tarwiyah

Pilgrims travel to Mina, located just outside Mecca, where they spend the day in prayer and reflection. They perform five daily prayers and prepare for the next stage of Hajj. Resting in Mina helps pilgrims mentally and physically prepare for Arafat, the most significant day of Hajj.

Arafat

On this sacred day, pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat, standing in prayer and seeking forgiveness from Allah (SWT). The Khutbah (sermon) is delivered at Masjid Namirah, and pilgrims engage in Dua and Dhikr until sunset. This is considered the most crucial part of Hajj.

Muzdalifah

After sunset, pilgrims proceed to Muzdalifah, an open plain where they spend the night under the sky. Here, they perform Maghrib and Isha prayers and collect 49 pebbles for the stoning ritual. Resting in Muzdalifah allows pilgrims to prepare for the next phase of Hajj.

Stoning of the Jamaraat

On the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims travel back to Mina and stone the largest pillar, Jamrat al-Aqaba, symbolising the rejection of Satan. This act commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) defiance of Shaytan. Pilgrims must throw seven pebbles, reciting “Allahu Akbar” with each throw.

Shaving/Cutting Hair

Pilgrims offer an animal sacrifice (Qurbani) to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) devotion. Afterward, men shave or trim their hair, while women cut a small portion. This marks the partial exit from Ihram, allowing pilgrims to wear normal clothes, but remaining in a state of purity.

Tawaf al-Ifadah

Pilgrims return to Mecca to perform Tawaf al-Ifadah, circling the Kaaba seven times. This act signifies renewal and purification. Pilgrims then perform Sa’i, walking between Safa and Marwah, before returning to Mina for the final stoning ritual.

Return to Mina

Pilgrims spend the next two or three days (11th–13th Dhul-Hijjah) in Mina, completing the stoning ritual at all three Jamaraat each day. This step reinforces faith and spiritual discipline. After completing this stage, pilgrims prepare for the farewell Tawaf.

Final Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wada)

Before leaving Mecca, pilgrims perform Tawaf al-Wada, the farewell circumambulation around the Kaaba. This final act of Hajj symbolises completion and farewell, allowing pilgrims to leave with a purified soul and spiritual fulfillment. It is a moment of deep reflection and gratitude.
visa information

Visa Information for Umrah & Hajj

1. Visa for Umrah

Performing Umrah requires a valid visa for entry into Saudi Arabia. The Umrah visa is available for pilgrims worldwide and can be obtained through approved travel agents or online via the Saudi eVisa system. Required documents include a valid passport (six-month validity), passport-sized photos, and proof of accommodation.

The visa duration allows a stay of up to 90 days, but pilgrims must leave before it expires. The Umrah visa does not permit work or business activities. Certain nationalities may be eligible for a visa waiver or a tourist eVisa, which also allows Umrah. Always check current visa regulations before booking your journey.

2. Visa for Hajj

Obtaining a Hajj visa is mandatory for pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia. The Saudi Hajj Ministry issues visas exclusively through authorised tour operators. Applicants must submit a valid passport, passport-sized photos, proof of vaccination, and a mahram certificate (for women under 45). A confirmed Hajj package including flights, accommodation, and transport is required. Pilgrims must ensure their passport validity exceeds six months. The visa is free of charge, but processing fees may apply. Hajj visas are valid for the pilgrimage period only, and overstaying is strictly prohibited. Early application is advised due to high demand.

Tips

Helpful Tips for a Successful Pilgrimage

  • Stay Hydrated-- The weather in Mecca and Medina can be extremely hot, so make sure to drink plenty of water and wear comfortable clothing.
  • Prepare Mentally & Spiritually-- Both Umrah and Hajj require mental and spiritual preparation. Take time to reflect and set your intention to make your pilgrimage meaningful.
  • Plan Ahead-- Book your flights, accommodation, and transportation well in advance to avoid stress during your journey.
  • Comfortable Footwear-- You will be walking a lot during both Umrah and Hajj, so choose comfortable shoes that are easy to remove for prayer.
  • Respect the Rituals-- Each ritual during Hajj and Umrah has significant spiritual value. Ensure you understand the steps and perform them with sincerity.
more faq

Helpful FAQs for Your Sacred Journey

Yes, we offer group bookings for both Hajj and Umrah. Group packages provide discounted rates and the convenience of travelling with fellow pilgrims, guided by our experienced team.

Once you complete your booking with us, we provide a confirmation receipt along with all necessary travel details. We also follow up with reminders as your pilgrimage date approaches.

Yes, we offer customised packages based on your preferences, including accommodation types, transport, and additional services. Our team will work with you to tailor a journey that suits your needs.

We value our loyal customers and offer exclusive discounts and promotions for repeat clients. Contact us for more details on our loyalty benefits.

There is no specific age limit, but we recommend that pilgrims are in good health. Children can travel with their parents, and elderly pilgrims should ensure they are fit for travel.

We will handle all flight-related issues. If your flight is delayed or cancelled, our team will ensure you're rebooked on the next available flight and assist with any necessary changes.

Our team provides guidance on medical services available during your trip. We also recommend travellers to have travel insurance, which covers medical emergencies, to ensure peace of mind.

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Yes, it is permissible to perform Hajj or Umrah on behalf of a deceased person or someone unable to travel. Our team can guide you through the proper procedures and requirements.

We provide a detailed packing list for all pilgrims, including essentials like Ihram clothing, toiletries, and prayer items. Our team also offers guidance on what to bring to ensure a comfortable journey.

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