Travel Guide

Please note that the content and visuals on this website are for testing purposes only and do not represent the final version.

Your one-stop
Solution for all your Umrah needs

Umrah is a significant pilgrimage that Muslims worldwide aspire to perform at least once in their lifetime. This sacred journey to Saudi Arabia can be undertaken at any time of the year. Before embarking on your Umrah, it is essential to understand the rites and procedures involved.

Spiritual Readiness: Familiarize yourself with the rituals and significance of Umrah. Read books, watch educational videos, and attend pre-Umrah seminars if possible.

Health: Get a medical check-up before you leave. Make sure all vaccinations, especially for meningitis and COVID-19, are up to date.

Fitness: Umrah involves a lot of walking. Start a fitness routine to build stamina.

Currency: Exchange currency for Saudi Riyals and have some cash for small expenses.

Budgeting: Plan your budget for accommodation, food, transport, and other expenses.

Banking: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards.

One of the most important steps of performing Umrah is Miqat. Miqat means “stated place” in Arabic. It represents a boundary or a zone from where you enter the state of Irham. You can not pass through that boundary without entering into the state of Irham. If you cross the boundary without entering the state of Irham, you need to undertake the act of damm ( animal sacrifice). This signifies the respect and honor accorded to Makkah and recognizing it is essential for your Umrah pilgrimage. There are five Miqat:

Dhul Hulayfah is located 18km southwest of Masjid Al-Nabawi in Madinah and 410 km north of Makkah. This is one of the Miqat for those living in Madinah and those traveling to Madinah from the north for Umrah.

Al-Juhfah is located 182km northwest of Makkah. It is the designated Miqat for pilgrims traveling from North America, Europe, Egypt, Syria, Sudan, Algeria, and other countries in Africa.

Qarn al- Manazil is situated 80km east of Makkah. This is the Miqat point for pilgrims living in Najd and those traveling from countries such as Oman, Pakistan, U.A.E, Australia, Singapore, and Malaysia.

Dhat Irq is situated 90km northeast of Makkah. It is a Miqat point for pilgrims traveling from countries including Iran, Iraq, Russia, China, and other neighboring nations.

It is located 100km south of Makkah. This is a Miqat point for pilgrims traveling from Yemen, Nigeria, South Africa, and other neighboring countries.

Here are some packing hacks to help you prepare efficiently for Umrah:

Ihram: Carry at least two sets of Ihram (for men) to have a backup.

Comfortable Clothing: For non-Ihram days, pack light, breathable, and loose-fitting clothes suitable for the hot climate.

Prayer Clothes: Women should pack easy-to-wear prayer clothes that can be quickly put on and taken off.

Footwear: Comfortable sandals and flip-flops are essential, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.

Slippers Bag: Carry a small, drawstring bag for your slippers when entering the Haram.

Medication: Pack any regular medications and basic first aid supplies (pain relievers, band-aids, antiseptic cream).

Toiletries: Bring travel-sized toiletries to save space. Make sure any items are fragrance-free to comply with Ihram rules.

Travel Pillow and Blanket: For long flights and waiting periods, a compact travel pillow and a lightweight blanket can be very useful.

Towel: A lightweight, quick-dry towel is handy.

Travel Documents: Keep your passport, visa, tickets, and important documents in a waterproof document holder.

Copies of Documents: Carry photocopies of your documents and also have digital copies saved on your phone or cloud storage.

Power Bank: Ensure you have a fully charged power bank for your phone.

Travel Adapter: Bring a universal travel adapter to charge your electronics.

Earphones: Useful for listening to Quran recitations or for entertainment during travel.

Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by refilling your water bottle regularly.

String Bag or Small Backpack: For carrying essentials when going to the Haram.

Snacks: Pack some dry snacks or nuts for emergencies or when you might not have immediate access to food.

Laundry Bags: Use lightweight laundry bags for dirty clothes to keep them separate from clean clothes.

Small Prayer Mat: Handy for praying during travel.

Here are some essential tips for Umrah to help ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling experience:

Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, travel delays, and lost luggage.

Documentation: Keep multiple copies of your passport, visa, tickets, and travel insurance. Have both physical and digital copies.

Currency: Carry some local currency (Saudi Riyals) for immediate expenses. International credit or debit cards can also be useful.

Packing: Pack lightly and only bring essentials. Refer to packing hacks to ensure you have everything you need.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially in the hot climate. Carry a refillable water bottle.

Pace Yourself: Don't rush through the rituals. Take your time to perform each one properly and with intention.

Stay Connected: Keep in touch with your group or family members, especially in crowded areas. Agree on a meeting point in case someone gets lost.

Local SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card for better connectivity and internet access.

Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. Use a money belt or neck pouch for valuables.

Learn the Duas: Memorize or keep a booklet of the specific prayers and supplications to recite during each stage of Umrah.

Avoid Peak Times: Try to perform Tawaf and Sa’i during less crowded times, such as late at night or early morning.

Footwear: Wear comfortable, slip-on footwear as you’ll need to remove them frequently when entering the mosque.

Respect Local Customs: Follow the dress code and respect the customs and traditions of the local culture.

Stay in Prayer: Continue to engage in prayers, reading Quran, and making Duas even after completing the main rituals.

Explore: If time permits, visit other holy sites in Makkah and Madinah to enhance your spiritual journey.

Reflect: Take time to reflect on your experience, the lessons learned, and how you can implement them in your daily life.

Get the Ziara app!

Our app has all your hotel needs covered: Secure payment channels, easy 4-step booking process, and sleek user designs. What more could you ask for?

Available now

Looking for help?

Our team is available 24/7

Call us at:

+966112199500

Or you can email us at:

[email protected]

Get support via WhatsApp: