Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey that requires both preparation and devotion. Before beginning your pilgrimage, it is important to ensure that all your essential travel documents, such as your passport, visa, airline tickets, travel insurance, and accommodation details are ready at least a few days before your departure. Taking advice from someone who has already performed Umrah can make your journey easier and help you understand the process more clearly.
As you leave for this blessed trip, make a sincere intention that your Umrah is being performed solely for the pleasure and nearness of Almighty Allah. A pure intention strengthens the heart and brings peace throughout the pilgrimage. At the same time, it is important to be physically, mentally, and financially prepared. Umrah involves continuous walking, especially during Tawaf, Sa’i, and daily visits to the Masjid al-Haram, so being fit and ready will make your worship smoother and more comfortable.
Before traveling, every pilgrim should learn the proper method of performing Umrah. This includes understanding how to enter the state of Ihram, reciting the Talbiyah, performing Tawaf correctly, completing Sa’i between Safa and Marwa, and knowing the recommended duas. Many people follow others without knowing the correct method, but learning the rules beforehand ensures that your worship is performed properly and with full focus.
While packing for your journey, it is important to remember that cooked food, fruits, and dairy products are not allowed by Saudi authorities. Only half-cooked food or properly sealed canned items can be taken. Since airport security is extremely strict, carrying anything that is not permitted can create unnecessary delays. In the days before departure, it is also helpful to develop a walking habit. Regular walking prepares your body for the physical demands of Umrah, where daily movement can easily reach several kilometers.
During your travel and stay, eating light and healthy meals will keep you energetic and ease the physical effort of worship. Women are encouraged to wear comfortable footwear instead of heels, as most rituals involve long periods of walking. Safety is also important, so pilgrims should avoid accepting any parcels or bags from strangers, even for a short moment, to prevent legal issues at the airport.
If you take medicines, keeping a doctor’s prescription with you is essential, as medical items are checked thoroughly upon arrival. Lastly, learning important prayers such as duas for Tawaf and Sa’i, the Janazah prayer, and the method of Qasr (shortened) prayer will benefit you throughout your stay, especially since funeral prayers are performed frequently in Masjid al-Haram.