Traveling for the holy pilgrimage through the Umrah Packages requires a lot of planning and research. Not only one has to consider the related travel and accommodation arrangements to make but also fulfil all the requisites of international travel.
Since Umrah is a type of Ibadah that Muslims do not practice on a daily basis, one can get confused with the rules and the proper way of performing them. Also, the travel guidelines to follow in this regard might be new.
So, here’s a brief description of how to book and travel to Umrah.
Find a Reliable Travel Agency.
The first step is to begin searching for a trusted travel agency that not only specializes in Umrah travel services but also remains legally certified as well as authorized by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for it. Therefore, explore the market and look for agencies possessing positive reviews, and a satisfied work history combined with excellent customer service.
Decide on Travel Dates.
It’s significantly essential to have ample time for your Umrah travel needs. Therefore, decide on dates that work best for your needs, budget, and availability for the holy trip, and then opt for booking an Umrah Package.
In this regard, all the factors concerning weather conditions, personal commitments, and availability of flights and accommodations should be considered.
Choose an Umrah Package.
It’s advised to select a travel package that is best suited to your individual Umrah travel preferences and budget. There is a range of Umrah packages to choose from, 3-star economy to 7-star luxury. Also, your Umrah packages can be tailored to your custom needs as well.
Note that you should always buy an all-inclusive Umrah package that offers all sorts of services like;
- Visa processing.
- Hotel accommodations.
- Ziyarath travel.
Gather Required Documents.
Collect all the necessary documents for your pilgrimage travel. Prominently including;
- A valid passport (at least six months of validity beyond your Umrah departure date).
- Vaccination certificates.
- Proof of precooked hotel accommodation and flights.
- Passport-sized photos.
- Health and travel insurance.
Submit the Application and Make Payment.
Complete your Umrah booking process by submitting your application to the Travel Agency UK you’ve hired along with all your personal details, and travel information. Then make the required payment.
Payment methods typically advised include bank transfers or credit card payments i.e., avoiding dealing in cash.
Visa Processing.
The travel agency will assist you with the Umrah visa application. Collecting your documents, they handle the submission to the Saudi embassy or consulate as well as the approval and delivery phases. This process may also require pilgrims to provide biometric data and undergo a medical checkup (if necessary).
Confirmation of Booking.
Once your Umrah visa is approved, the travel agency will notify you with confirmation of your booking and also update you on your flight details, hotel reservations, and any additional services included in your package.
Make Travel Arrangements.
Once your documents are approved and your visa is issued for Umrah travel;
- Pack your travel essentials.
- Educate yourself on the rituals of Umrah.
- Know the legal guidelines to follow during your travel.
- Prepare yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually for the trip.
Follow Travel Agency Instructions.
Upon your arrival in Saudi Arabia, follow all the rules and regulations imposed on pilgrims in order to have a hassle-free and peaceful travel experience. Attend any orientation sessions (held by your travel agency) to familiarize yourself with the Umrah dos and don’ts.
Perform Umrah.
It’s time that you begin with your Umrah rituals by assuming Ihram from the Meeqat boundary. The necessary rituals to complete include;
- Performing Tawaf of the Holy Kaabah.
- Sayee of Safah and Marwah Hills.
- Halq/Taqsir.
Note that all of the rituals are to be performed within the premises of Masjid-al-Haram. Therefore, avoid stepping out the boundary of the Grand Mosque while performing your Umrah rituals. Otherwise, umrah might become invalid.
Departure.
After you’ve completed your Umrah rituals you can spend the remaining time in Ibadan, traveling for ziarat, performing voluntary prayers as well as doing shopping in the region.
As your departure date draws closer, pack your items, and prepare for your return home as overstaying your visa is a criminal offense.
So, that’s how you can book your Umrah.
