A little planning and knowledge can add value to your Umrah.
Here are a few tips from IHG® to help you on your way.
Some practical ways to enhance your journey, even before you depart.
Familiarise yourself with the rules of Ihram. Even if you’ve done Umrah or Hajj before, take time to refresh your knowledge. You may need to help others.
Take time to learn the Salat al-Janazah before your Umrah. This is prayed frequently, and it’s beneficial to know.
Do some long walks to prepare for the physical demands of Umrah. In warmer months, start hydrating yourself a week before departure.
Plan ahead and pack early. Make sure your Umrah departure is done in a calm and peaceful state of mind, not rushed or stressed.
In addition to your packing list, consider these often-overlooked items that can simplify your daily activities.
Don’t forget to bring a doctor’s letter for any prescription medicines that you carry.
Pack some dried fruits or nutritious snacks to keep you sustained during the long, active days.
A light string bag is useful for to carrying your footwear inside the Masjid. Polythene zip-lock bags can be used to carry other items in your string bag.
Some small hand towels are useful after Wudu. These can also be carried inside your Masjid bag.
Take comfortable sandals or open shoes. Closed shoes can be a hindrance.
A small counter can help when counting your Tawaf and Sa’ee if conditions are crowded and distracting.
Sensitive to bright light? Sunglasses will help – on sunny days, parts of the Al-Haram have much reflected sunlight.
For men, an Ihram belt that can carry your mobile phone and valuables will help to keep your hands free.
As you make the most of this fulfilling experience, you may find these tips useful.
Ask advice - if you have questions regarding Fiqh while at the Masjid Haram, there is a booth outside the entrance where scholars will be happy to assist.
For the elderly or infirm, remember that Tawaf can be done with a wheelchair on the upper level.
Women who prefer a quieter place to pray, go to the 2nd floor of the Masjid Haram. There are escalators near the Dar Al Tawhid InterContinental, Makkah entrance.
In hot weather, you may wish to do Jumu’ah in the King Fahd Gate area of Al Haram, which is air-conditioned. Be sure to arrive early.
If you are infirm or sensitive to heat, consider doing your Tawaf after Isha. The Masjid Haram should be cooler.
In case of illness, contact Al Haram security. There is an ambulance service available, and a hospital close by. There is also a doctor in Al Haram.
Temperatures in Madinah are usually cooler than in Makkah. If travelling in the cooler months, be prepared for cold weather around Fajr.
To visit Ziyarat sites in Madinah, one of the better times is between sunrise and Dhuhr prayer, to avoid crowded conditions. Ask your hotel’s concierge for advice.
If you wish to visit the Rawdah, the best time is at night - a few hours after Isha or a few hours before Fajr.