Umrah Personal Experience: A Comprehensive Guide to Your Journey

Umrah, a sacred pilgrimage undertaken by millions of Muslims worldwide, is a journey of spiritual rejuvenation and devotion to Allah. It’s usually referred to as the “lesser pilgrimage”, but still holds a significant meaning for the Muslims as an act of worship that involves the performance of specific rituals at te Ka’aba in the holy city of Mecca.

Unlike the Hajj, which is obligatory for all Muslims who are physically and financially able, the Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage that can be undertaken at any time of the year. It offers Muslims an opportunity for spiritual purification, seeking forgiveness, and drawing closer to Allah through acts of devotion such as circumambulating the Ka’aba (Tawaf) and walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa (Sa’i). Each year, there could be almost a million people pursuing Umrah, which demonstrates the devotion of Muslims worldwide.

Planning for your Umrah personal experience can be quite overwhelming, especially for first-time pilgrims. The logistics of travel, accommodation, visa requirements, and understanding the intricate rituals can seem like a daunting task—but there’s nothing to be worried about! Check out our guide to a successful and memorable Umrah that we come up for you step by step, ranging from researching for the best flights, getting a visa approved, and finding the most comfortable stay that suits your preference.

Step 1. Find Affordable Flights

The journey to Umrah starts with finding affordable flights. Look for budget airlines that have routes to Jeddah, King Abdulaziz International Airport, the closest airport to Makkah. Keep in mind that Makkah doesn’t have an airport. Therefore, you need to plan for transportation from Jeddah to Makkah.

Step 2. Choose a Suitable Accommodation

Choosing the right accommodation can be challenging, but it is an essential part of your Umrah journey. Staying in Jeddah may be cheaper than staying in Makkah, excluding transportation costs. However, certain offers can help you stay in a 5-star hotel in Makkah for a much better deal than those available in Jeddah. Research and book in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

Before proceeding to the booking page, I dedicated a significant amount of time to examining the map view on Agoda’s search page. Simply typing in “Makkah Ajyad” was enough for me to narrow down my focus to hotels in the vicinity of the Haram. My requirements were quite specific: I aimed to find a hotel that was within proximity to the Haram, located in a pleasant area, and had at least a 4-star rating.

To make an informed decision, I took into consideration the recommendations of Agoda customers. I had initially decided not to book outside Ajyad, but I also explored other neighborhoods, like Aziziya, upon reading some recommendations. However, no other place could compare to Ibrahim Al-Khalil Road. Not only is it one of the widest and most aesthetically pleasing streets in Makkah, but it also offers a straightforward route to the Haram. So, this is how I made up my mind about the area I’d like to stay in.

The deals offered by M by Millennium were truly incredible. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw that for a remarkably low cost of EUR 260, I could stay in a 5-star hotel just a 25-minute walk away from the Haram or an 8-minute ride on the hotel’s complimentary shuttle for a complete week of stay! Although I opted for this option to save money, I also discovered that by doubling my budget, I could have booked a double room at Al Shohada Hotel, which was less than an 8-minute walk from Ajyad’s gate along a flat and straightforward street.

Since I wanted to fully immerse myself in the local culinary experience, I decided not to book any meal plans. Instead, I planned to explore dining options in the Haram area. To my delight, the hotel not only met but exceeded my expectations. All of the special requests I had made were fulfilled without requiring any follow-up from my side. The room service was exceptional and consistently available, ensuring a pleasantly remarkable experience during my stay.

Step 3. Visa Application Process

As soon as the booking phase is over, it’s time to submit the visa application. Fortunately, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is one of the few countries where you can finalize, submit, and receive the visa online (for a specific number of countries). Check your eligibility at https://visa.visitsaudi.com/. The online process is straightforward and won’t take more than 10 minutes. You need to pay about USD 110 per person. The validation and visa delivery takes around 30 seconds!

Step 4. Plan the Route of Your Trip

Make sure you have fully planned your trip and completed your bookings before you travel. If you plan to visit or stay in Madinah before or after your Umrah, factor in the time and costs of transportation. Keep in mind that the Haramain train trip to/from Madinah gets more expensive as the ride date gets closer. This is why it is advisable that you book your train ticket immediately after you plan the route of your itinerary.

Step 5. The Ihram Ritual

The Ihram is a basic Umrah ritual that makes you “Muhrem,” a person who went through Ihram and fulfilled all its conditions. Do as much reading as you can to understand the rituals, the Sunnah, and all about Umrah. Some guides can help you do so. Both males and females must go through Ihram to complete a proper Umrah. However, males have a specific dress code that doesn’t apply to females. Process Ihram at one of the five “Miqats” depending on your departure origin. If you’re coming via flights, you can process Ihram before you leave your country, at the airport, or even on a flight. Make sure you have taken care of all your personal hygiene requirements before pronouncing your Umrah intention. As soon as you pronounce your intention, you won’t be allowed to cut anything from your hair/nails until you finish your rituals.

Step 6. Arriving in Makkah

Once you arrive in Jeddah, you can take the Haramain train directly from the airport to Makkah, which is normally about a 45-minute ride, depending on your arrival terminal. If your arrival terminal is too far away from the Haramain train station, you can take a cab directly to your place of stay in Makkah. Before leaving your hotel, renew your Wudhu, and it’s preferable to have a Ghusul. Always make sure you know exactly where you have been dropped off as this will determine your way back to your hotel.

Shopping in Makkah provided a plethora of opportunities. However, it is advisable to avoid bargaining while in a state of Ihram, as it may distract from the spiritual focus required for the rituals. Therefore, it is best to postpone shopping until after getting a haircut (Tahalul). Throughout my visit, I encountered numerous shopping options, ranging from stores right outside the hotel to those on the way to and from the Haram, and practically everywhere else. I explored many of these options, and although I ended up spending a significant amount of money, I learned an invaluable lesson: the best bargains were to be found at the Waqf King Abdul Aziz Mall.

Waqf King Abdul Aziz Mall offered a comprehensive shopping experience, featuring everything from a small Karak tea stall located outside the mall near Ajyad gate to prayer rugs in a variety of colors and sizes, small souvenirs, magnets, traditional garments for all age groups, and even incense (Bukhur). The sellers at this mall were particularly open to bargaining and engaging in friendly conversation. I thoroughly enjoyed my shopping experience, visiting the mall on three separate occasions.

Step 7. Download the Nusuk App

With the Nusuk app, you can book your Umrah slot as soon as you land in Jeddah. It is advisable to download and use this application as early as possible to secure your slot and avoid any last-minute hassles. This application also facilitates booking your Rawda visit in Madinah, and it is essential to book your appointment beforehand. The authorities in both Makkah and Medinah inspect your appointment booking before allowing you to access the main Tawaf floor in Makkah and Rawda in Medinah. Therefore, it is crucial not to miss the chance to visit these holy places and ensure that you have booked your slots using the Nusuk application. The app provides a convenient and efficient way to book your slots, and it is highly recommended to make use of it to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience during your Umrah trip.

Step 8. Mark the Gate Location

The Haram is a vast area with over 179 gates, so it’s essential to always know where you have been dropped off. This will make it easier to find your way back to your hotel. Only a handful of gates lead to the main Tawaf (ground floor), while other gates lead to the first, second, and roof Tawaf floors. It’s crucial to know which gate to take, especially if you have mobility issues.

Step 9. Tawaf Floor

Only Muhrem males are allowed on the main Tawaf floor. If you’re not sure about the rules, ask the local authorities or consult your tour guide.

Step 10. Thalul (Exit from Ihram):

After completing seven Tawaf rounds and Sa’y between Safa and Marwa, you will be one step away from “Thalul,” which is simply having a haircut. For males, a haircut is required, cutting hair from all sides, while for females, only cutting an inch from either side is enough.

A Note About Food Options During Umrah

While there are a few popular food joints near Al-Haram like Al Romansiah, ALBAIK, and Al Tazaj, the best specialty restaurants are usually found away from Al-Haram. You can find some great Saudi, Yemeni, Egyptian, and other cuisine options in nearby areas.

In conclusion, these tips can help you have a smooth and comfortable Umrah personal experience while performing Umrah or Hajj. It’s important to remember that patience and kindness towards others are also a significant part of the journey, in addition to being respectful of the holy site and its rules. Don’t forget that you should clear your head, keep your calm, never force your way through pilgrims, and avoid arguments at all costs as long as you are Muhrem.