Guide to Tips for Performing Hajj or Umrah for the First Time

1. Choose Reliable Organizing Companies:

Verify licenses: Make sure the organizing company is accredited and licensed by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. You can visit the Ministry’s website at www.haj.gov.sa to verify the official list of trusted companies.

Look for customer experiences: Read reviews and customer experiences about the company on travel websites like TripAdvisor or social media, and ask for recommendations from friends or acquaintances who have previously performed Hajj or Umrah.

Details of the trip program: Choose a company that offers a clear program including accommodation details (distance from the Haram), transportation services (by land, air, or train), and meals provided.

Compare costs: Avoid excessively cheap offers, as they might indicate lower quality or unreliable services.

2. Understand the Official Procedures and Available Services:

Register through official platforms: Use the “Nusk” platform to organize all aspects of your trip, from issuing visas to booking transportation. It is also recommended to download apps like “Tawakkalna” and “Umrahna” to facilitate obtaining necessary permits and entering the Haram.

Follow trip updates: Stay updated with the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Hajj through the official website or social media.

3. Prepare Personal Essentials:

Documents: Keep both physical and digital copies of your passport, visa, accommodation and transportation bookings, and bring a translated copy of your prescription if you take regular medications.

Hygiene items: Pack personal hygiene products such as sanitizers, wet wipes, toothbrushes, and don’t forget extra masks to avoid infections in crowded places.

Financial preparation: Keep some cash in Saudi Riyals for initial expenses, and use approved electronic payment cards like “Mada” or “STC Pay”.

4. Learn About Service and Assistance Centers:

Airport services: Pilgrims and Umrah performers can benefit from the support of the organizing teams available at the arrival airports, including luggage carts and staff to assist you.

Medical assistance: Know the location of the nearest health center in Mecca, Medina, and the holy sites, and in case of emergencies, call the Saudi emergency number (997) for quick medical support.

5. Tips to Reduce Effort and Fatigue:

Plan ahead for rituals: Try to perform rituals during less crowded times, such as early morning or late night, and remember to take regular breaks to avoid fatigue, especially if you’re elderly or have chronic illnesses.

Dehydration and heat: Always carry a bottle of water and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and use umbrellas or hats to protect yourself from the sun when walking in open areas.

6. Familiarize Yourself with the Geography of the Holy Sites:

Use maps and apps: Use apps designed to locate your position and navigate easily through the holy sites. You can also get printed maps of the Haram and the holy sites in case there’s no internet connection.

7. Additional Preparations to Ease the Journey:

Small hand luggage: Keep essential items (water, tissues, emergency medicines) in a light bag while performing Tawaf or Sa’i.

Comfort items: Comfortable walking shoes, noise-canceling headphones, and a small flashlight for emergency situations.

8. Learn the Rituals of Hajj or Umrah in Advance:

Attend training courses: Enroll in available training programs on the “Nusk Academy” platform or through Islamic institutions in your country.

Guidance materials: Read ritual booklets and listen to available lectures online to avoid mistakes.

9. Psychological and Spiritual Adaptation:

Prepare your heart and soul: Allocate time before travel to recite the Quran and supplications to spiritually prepare yourself.

Dealing with challenges: Be patient and ready to face travel difficulties, keeping in mind that the ultimate goal is to draw closer to Allah Almighty.

These tips will make your first journey to the Sacred Mosque a comfortable and organized experience.