As the crescent moon of Ramadan graces the night sky, Muslim hearts worldwide prepare for a month of heightened devotion and spiritual yearning. And for many, this means planning a blessed pilgrimage to Makkah, the holiest site of Islam, for Umrah 2024.
With Ramadan 2024 starting from March 9th till April 10th, early planning can ensure better deals and a smoother experience. This comprehensive guide will cover everything from Umrah packages, monitoring cheap flights and hotel prices to the Umrah procedure within Ramadan.
Ramadan Umrah 2024 in Makkah
Makkah holds profound significance in Islam, serving as the holiest city for Muslims worldwide. Makkah stands as the focal point for Umrah, a spiritual pilgrimage. The city's historical and religious importance resonates deeply within Islamic traditions, symbolising unity and faith for believers across the globe.
Going the extra mile for pilgrim comfort, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has implemented dedicated assistance for those with disabilities at the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah.
A Guide to Umrah Visa
The journey to Umrah begins with understanding the travel and visa formalities. This guide will navigate you through the process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free path to the Kaaba.
1. Regular Umrah Visa:
The traditional route is through approved Umrah service providers or Saudi embassies/consulates.
Valid for 30 days with a single entry.
Requires in-person application and document submission.
2. Umrah eVisa:
Saudi Arabia offers an Umrah online visa for citizens of 63 eligible countries (check the full list at Saudi eVisa)
One-year and multiple-entry visas, ideal for flexible trips or frequent pilgrimages, are available.
Umrah online visa allows a stay of up to 90 days per visit to some countries.
Pilgrims must fill the form with accurate details, including personal information, travel dates, and flight bookings.
Step 1: Portal and Account:
Visit the Saudi eVisa portal.
Create an eVisa account with your email address and password.
Step 2: Application Form:
Fill out the form with accurate details, including personal information, travel dates, and flight bookings.
Ensure your passport has at least 6 months of validity.
Step 3: Documents:
Upload scanned copies of
Your passport.
A recent passport-size photo with a white background.
Confirmed return flight tickets.
Proof of accommodation in Makkah.
Do I need a separate visa for Umrah?
In most cases, yes, you will need a separate visa for Umrah. Whether you need a specific Umrah visa or another type of visa depends on your nationality and other factors. Here's a breakdown:
General rule:
Umrah visa: This is the recommended visa for pilgrims who solely intend to perform Umrah. It offers specific benefits like longer stays and the ability to perform multiple Umrah journeys within the visa validity period.
Tourist visa: You can perform Umrah with a tourist visa, but it might have limitations like shorter validity and single entry.
Exceptions:
You don't need a separate visa for Umrah in Makkah if you already hold a valid Schengen, US, or UK visa. You can use these visas for Umrah without additional applications.
Nusuk App For Umrah 2024
As soon as you land in Makkah, KSA, it's important to download and register this app. It is vital for your stay and the Umrah procedure. Through Nusuk, you can:
Apply for Umrah permits to perform the Umrah rituals.
Book hotels and transportation for a comfortable stay.
With necessary access, book permits for entering both "Al-Haram" and "Masjid Al Nubawei" for prayers, including Umrah and regular visits.
By having a pre-booked permit, you can potentially avoid queues at entry points.
Umrah Packages | Hotels and Flights
Finding the right balance between comfort and budget is key when selecting your accommodation and flights. Almosafer offers a variety of Umrah packages tailored to meet the needs of every pilgrim. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly options or luxury accommodations, we have something for everyone.
Flight Options and Prices
Airline | Route | Average Price |
RUH - JED | SAR 129 | |
CAI - JED | SAR 324 | |
DMM - JED | SAR 259 |
*Flight tickets are approximate and subject to change. Always check Almosafer Flights and offers before booking.
Accommodation in Makkah: Hotels and Prices
Most Booked Hotels | Star Rating | Average Price Per Night |
5 Star | SAR 2,168 | |
5 Star | SAR 1,950 | |
5 Star | SAR 2,990 | |
4 Star | SAR 1,406 | |
3 Star | SAR 710 |
*Hotel Prices are subject to change. Always check Almosafer Makkah Hotels and offers before booking.
Rituals and Attire: How to perform umrah?
While Hajj holds its place as a mandatory pillar of Islam, Umrah is Sunnah. It is a spiritual journey by all Muslims regardless of gender, age, or cultural background. It is a sign of their devotion to Allah.
Performing Umrah involves specific duas for Umrah and a series of sacred rituals including Ihram, Tawaf, Sa'i, and Halq or Taqsir. Men wear the Ihram, two white unsewn clothes, while women wear modest, loose-fitting clothing covering all but the hands and face.
Almosafer offers updated Umrah guidelines and travel resources to help you plan a smooth and fulfilling pilgrimage.
Umrah Guidelines:
Ihram: Start at the Miqat. Wear Ihram clothing and make Niyyah (intention).
Tawaf: Circumambulate the Kaaba seven times, starting at the Black Stone.
Sa’i: Walk between Safa and Marwah seven times, commemorating Hagar's search for water.
Halq or Taqsir: Conclude Umrah by shaving (for men) or trimming (for women) the hair.
FAQs | Umrah during Ramadan
Q. Can I perform Umrah on behalf of someone else?
A. Yes, it is permissible to perform Umrah on behalf of someone who is unable or has passed away.
Q. What is the best time to perform Umrah during Ramadan?
A. While any time in Ramadan is auspicious, the last ten days are particularly significant.
Q. Are there any age restrictions for Umrah?
A. There are no specific age restrictions, but children must be accompanied by guardians.
Embark on this sacred journey with faith and preparation. Perform your Umrah in Ramadan 2024 and seek out immense blessings and spiritual growth.
Ready for Umrah in Ramadan 2024? Choose Almosafer for a seamless pilgrimage experience. Visit our website for tailored Umrah packages, detailed guides, and expert support. Plan Your Umrah with Almosafer. As the eagerly anticipated Ramadan season approaches, the most common questions that arise are: When does Ramadan start? and When is Eid Al Fitr holidays?
A Ramadan calendar with accurate Suhoor and Iftar timings would greatly assist those observing fasts throughout the month of Ramadan. Also Read :
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