Travelling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah does not have to be complicated, especially for beginners. If you are planning your Umrah journey this year, then we have the most significant tips and requirements that you should take heed of.

Foremost, all the necessary steps for being in a state of ihram for both men and women should be adopted. Both males and females should be mindful of the restrictions that are to be followed during the pilgrimage.

TRAVEL TIPS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR YOUR UMRAH JOURNEY

Ensure that you are physically fit for the journey

While Umrah is not as demanding as Hajj, you still need the stamina to perform all the duties that include as a pilgrim. Umrah pilgrimage involves a lot of walking so you need to be prepared for that.

Keep yourself hydrated throughout the pilgrimage

Especially in the hot season, you need to prevent dehydration as it can take a toll on your health, so keep a water bottle with you at all times.

Keep a personal travel essentials bag with you

From your chargers to your identity card to your important medicines and cash in the local currency, keep everything secure in a travel bag that you can take with you at all times.

Best and affordable months to travel for Umrah

The offseason for Umrah typically varies from the month of Safar, Rajab and Dhul Qa’dah. If you travel during these times, you can find affordable flight bookings and accommodations.

Check for any vaccine requirements

If you are choosing an Umrah package, ask your travel agent if there is a requirement for vaccination such as COVID-19 or meningitis which you can get it in advance.

SOME IMPORTANT REMINDERS TO TAKE NOTE OF FOR YOUR UMRAH JOURNEY

You are allowed to take Zam Zam water back home with you if you are on an Umrah or Hajj visa. However, a tourist visa for Saudi Arabia won’t allow you to take back Zam Zam water and you will be asked to leave it at the airport.

If you are a Muslim with a foreign name or a recently converted Muslim, get a certificate made from your local mosque or Islamic centre verifying your religion.