Hajj Step-by-Step: A Practical Guide

To assist with your sacred journey to Makkah, this Hajj guide offers useful advice for lodging, transportation and personal safety, as well as other practical Hajj information.

Introduction

Patience is one of the best Hajj tips to remember. You will be among a multitude of other pilgrims. Try to remain calm and seek less-crowded areas. You also will have a more tranquil trip if you know what to expect and how to navigate the pilgrimage.

Walk, Bus or Train on Your Muslim Pilgrimage

One of the most convenient ways to complete the Hajj steps is aboard the Al-Mashaaer Al-Mugaddassah Metro. Known as the “Hajj Metro,” the rail service has modern air-conditioned trains that transport pilgrims between the holy sites of Makkah, Mina, Mount Arafat and Muzdalifah. Speed is a big plus. In mere minutes you can complete a journey that takes hours on foot.

Given congestion along the Hajj route, walking can actually be faster and more convenient than bus travel. Buses offer relative comfort, but they can break down or get stuck in traffic for hours on end. Walking requires more exertion but can enhance your spiritual experience – with the sacred ground beneath your feet and fellow pilgrims at your side.

What to Expect in Mina

The first stop after your initial Holy Kaaba rite, Mina serves as a base for much of your journey. The sight of white tents stretching to the horizon can be both impressive and imposing. While not luxurious, communal tents provide sufficient amenities for comfortable stays. Air conditioning staves off the desert heat. Electricity powers fluorescent lights and wall outlets for charging mobile devices.

Tents are grouped into camps according to country. Each camp has a kitchen, washing facilities and bathrooms (bring your own toilet paper). Breakfast is often a boxed meal of bread, fruit and pastries. You can expect a dinner of rice and meat. Beverages and snacks are available at the kitchen throughout the day. In case you forget where your tent is or become lost along the sprawling network of paths, your badge is color-coded for your country and has your camp’s number on it.

Evening Under the Stars in Muzdalifah

After Hajj steps in Arafat, you will spend the night on the hardscrabble plain of Muzdalifah. This is one of the best-known and least-comfortable parts of the journey for many. Rather than a sleeping bag, it’s a good idea to buy a cheap sleeping mat in Makkah. An inflatable pillow will also be useful.

While all pilgrims spend a night under open skies, not all spots in Muzdalifah are equal. Some travelers gather in cramped areas by roads, where fume-spewing buses pass by throughout the night. Others are in spaces where travel organizers have erected wooden privacy walls and set up soft mattresses with sheets, blankets and pillows. A good organizer will even provide the pebbles needed for the upcoming Stoning of the Devil ritual.

Safety During the Stoning of the Devil

Exercise caution while performing the Stoning of the Devil ritual in Mina. In years past, the rush of pilgrims performing the rite has led to stampedes. The government of Saudi Arabia has since instituted stronger safety measures, but it’s still a good idea to be mindful of crowd issues as you approach the site at Jamarat Bridge. Extreme weather is also a concern. Daytime temperatures can climb to 106°F (41°C) under an unrelenting sun. You should bring an umbrella for shade and plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

After the Pilgrimage

After performing the Farewell Tawaf at the Grand Mosque, you are free to explore. Many pilgrims visit Madinah, home to the final resting place of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). A VIP bus service can take you from Makkah to Madinah in five hours. If you’re looking for Hajj souvenirs for loved ones back home, there are a variety of shops along the streets by the famed Prophet’s Mosque.

As you prepare to depart for home, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the pilgrimage, your stronger relationship with Allah and the deeper understanding of Makkah’s heritage you will carry with you on your journey through life.

Hajj with Children: a survival guide for families!

Is Hajj for kids? From packing and preparation to advice for navigating the challenging journey, here’s what you need to know prior to performing Hajj with the family.

Before setting off on a trip to Makkah with the family it’s important to understand what to bring, safeguards to take and ways to engage children on the sacred pilgrimage.

Find Child-Friendly Hajj Packages

Search for organizers with services that cater to kids. For example, some packages offer to have guides supervise children while you perform Hajj rituals.

Essential Items for Makkah with Kids

The desert sun can be harsh on both you and your children. Bring an ample supply of sunscreen and a hat for each member of the family. You’ll also want to travel with plenty of water bottles as dehydration will be a concern for much of the journey. Consider snacks that can withstand heat such as dried fruit, granola bars and individually wrapped hummus tortillas. A travel pillow will be indispensable when your child wants to sleep.

There are pros and cons to bringing a stroller. It’s useful to have one while shopping in Makkah and traveling from hotel to mosque. A stroller that reclines to a flat position is also great for sleeping. However, strollers are not allowed in or around the Grand Mosque during Hajj. Also, keep in mind you can hire a wheelchair to ferry children around Makkah. So it might not be necessary to lug a stroller around for the entire trip.

Clothing for Hot Days and Cool Nights

Children should dress for hot weather in Makkah. While kids are not required to wear Ihram clothing, the loose lightweight garment is still a good idea. It’s also a good opportunity to teach them that simple clothing is worn to express that all are equal before Allah. Evening temperatures drop in the desert climate so you should also have clothing for cool weather. It’s a good idea to bring blankets or sleeping bags for your night under the stars at Muzdalifah and Mina.

Document Hajj Steps in a Family Diary

Keeping an account of one’s pilgrimage is a time-honored tradition in Makkah’s heritage that’s almost as old as Hajj itself. It’s also a wonderful way to bring the family together to recount shared experiences, discuss each day’s events and record how they impacted members of the family. Let the older kids write about the activities in their own words and have a parent write for younger children. Encourage them to draw pictures depicting what they witnessed each day. The diary will be a memento that’s cherished for generations.

Educate and Entertain with Digital Devices

Your smartphone or tablet can be an invaluable tool that both educates and occupies young minds on the journey. Online stores have lots of Hajj-related apps that will come in handy on long rides. Check out Learn Hajj Games and Salah for Kids. You can also download e-books such as Tell Me About Hajj and Muslim Child to teach about the importance of Hajj in inspiring and interactive ways. If you have a reliable Internet connection, watch any number of kid-friendly YouTube videos that illustrate the significance of the pilgrimage. Feeling retro? Buy some animated Hajj DVDs from Amazon to play on your laptop.

Make a Hajj Map

Visuals are a great way to engage children. You can download and print an online map of the Hajj steps or create your own. Make the map in black and white and have the kids color each step as they’re performed. Let children draw the hill of Mount Arafat as you explain the importance of the site where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) preached his final sermon. Fill the sky over Muzdalifah with stars as you teach your children why pilgrims spend a night in the open. The map will also make a wonderful keepsake your family will treasure for years.

Consider a Safety Plan

Getting separated from a child is one of every parent’s greatest concerns. An identification bracelet for your child can give you peace of mind. You can order one online. YouTube videos can help you make a fun and fashionable wristband. Include the names of both the child and parents, your hotel and a local phone number in both English and Arabic. Keep in mind that Hajj locations can get crowded and chaotic. So it’s a good idea to always agree on a meeting point in the event of separation.

A pilgrimage during childhood doesn’t free one from the obligation of Hajj during adulthood. But the journey can be an inspiring spiritual experience that helps children gain a deeper understanding of their faith.

Smart budget tips for Hajj and Umrah

Whatever your financial position, it’s important to plan your budget for Hajj and Umrah carefully. Then you can enjoy the spiritual experience of visiting the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah without worrying about money issues.

The total cost of your pilgrimage depends on many choices. Check out our tips for a great Hajj or Umrah experience at a cost you can afford.

What Hajj or Umrah packages are available?

Hajj pilgrims must book a package including visas, accommodation and transport via an agency approved by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Umrah pilgrims are free to arrange their own accommodation and transport, but may wish to take advantage of special Umrah package deals. These range from basic to VIP, so take time to compare packages and find the best one for your budget.

Prices depend on your country of residence and you may be able to find a better deal by booking accommodation in Makkah and Madinah independently – especially if you wish to stay in a luxury hotel.

Can I travel at off-peak times?

Traveling during low season and outside of holiday periods offers a more relaxing Umrah experience. It also allows you to take advantage of lower flight costs and special hotel deals. If you must perform Umrah at a busy time of year, consider traveling on weekdays instead of weekends.

Most pilgrims stay in Saudi Arabia for 15–28 days. A shorter trip will save some money – but once you have paid for your flights and visas, you may as well make the most of your stay!

What are my travel costs in Saudi Arabia?

Taxis and private chauffeur transfers are the most comfortable travel options for pilgrims with large families and lots of luggage – but for the long journeys between Makkah and Madinah, they can add a lot to your budget. For up-to-date information and tips on travel options in Saudi Arabia, check out our blog articles on the best routes to travel to Makkah and how to get around Makkah once you’re in the city.

Alone or as a group?

Large families and groups traveling together can save money by sharing taxis and booking family suites in hotels. On the other hand, traveling with children or elderly relatives may mean you need to spend more on transport, shopping and meals.

What level of comfort do I need?

Don’t underestimate how strenuous Hajj and Umrah can be, especially at busy times and during hot weather. In Makkah, many pilgrims appreciate the comfort of staying in a 5-star hotel near Al Haram with reliable air conditioning and high-quality facilities. If you budget smartly, book well in advance and look out for special deals, you’ll be able to treat yourself to a higher level of comfort and enjoy your Hajj or Umrah experience even more.

What do I need to buy in Makkah?

Shopping for gifts for loved ones back home is a major aspect of Hajj or Umrah for many pilgrims. You may also need to include ihram clothing, sun protection and fragrance-free toiletries. Haircuts and shaving are other minor costs. You have a lot of flexibility in the “shopping” part of your budget – but careful, big shoppers may need to pay excess baggage fees on the flight home!

See our blogs on sensational Hajj gifts and souvenirs and the best places to shop in Makkah.

How much should I budget for food and drink?

Eating and drinking together should be one of the pleasures of a pilgrimage, so it’s worth budgeting a decent amount depending on the type of restaurants you enjoy. Hotel rates, particularly in more upscale hotels, often include a generous breakfast and you can also book half-board or even full-board package deals. Remember to include money for snacks and drinks, as the weather in Makkah is very hot and you will need to stay refueled and rehydrated while performing your rites.

How much does the sacrifice cost?

Unless it is included in your package, you must budget for one obligatory sacrifice while staying in Makkah. You can buy a sacrifice coupon in advance or in Makkah itself, with the cost depending on the type of animal you choose to be sacrificed. If you miss an obligatory rite, you’ll need to pay for another sacrifice to expiate for this.

What does WiFi and mobile internet cost in Saudi Arabia?

Calling, messaging and sending photos to friends and family back home – as well as keeping touch on social media – are part of the pleasure of a pilgrimage. Many good hotels now offer free WiFi and you can get great deals on prepaid SIM cards for your smartphone while traveling in Saudi Arabia.

The best stress-free ways to travel to Makkah

Looking forward to your trip to Makkah? Of course – there’s nothing more awe-inspiring for Muslims than visiting the holy city. If you are traveling to Saudi Arabia independently, there are several options for how to get to Makkah.

Most direct route: Jeddah to Makkah

Makkah has no airport, so most people fly into the huge King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah. South Terminal serves mainly domestic flights and Saudi Arabia’s national airline, Saudia. Most other international flights arrive at North Terminal, 19 km away.

The most convenient option for the 104 km journey from Jeddah Airport to Makkah is a private limousine arranged by your hotel in Makkah.

You can also take a licensed taxi from the terminal, or book a ride with Uber or Careem. Be ready for a long wait during busy times. There are regular SAPTCO buses from Jeddah Airport to Makkah. Since the bus station is 7 km from Makkah city center, this option is stressful if you’re traveling with heavy luggage.

Coming soon: When fully operational in late 2018 or early 2019, the Haramain high-speed train will offer fast, comfortable travel between Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah.

Alternative route: Madinah to Makkah

The other main entry point for Umrah and Hajj pilgrims is the smaller, usually quieter airport of Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport (MED) in Madinah.

For the 456 km journey from Madinah to Makkah along Route 15, many choose to travel by VIP SAPTCO bus. The air-conditioned service offers several direct trips per day, stopping at a miqat point before entering Makkah. It has a shorter travel time and greater comfort, including WiFi and refreshments, than regular buses. VIP tickets sell out quickly, so book well in advance.

Your hotel concierge can advise on a private hotel-to-hotel transfer between Madinah and Makkah. This is advisable if you are traveling as a family or have lots of luggage.

Travel to Makkah – questions to ask

  • What are my visa restrictions? Most pilgrims must arrange their trip via an agent certified by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Hajj and Umrah visa holders are restricted to travel between Jeddah, Madinah and Makkah. Those with another type of visa may consider flying to the quieter Ta’if International Airport (TIF), 70 km from Makkah.
  • When am I traveling to Makkah? Airport formalities can take many hours during busy holiday periods such as Ramadan. Consider traveling to Makkah at quieter times of the year and arranging private transfers to skip long queues for taxis and buses.
  • Where else am I going in Saudi Arabia? It may be possible to save travel time by flying into Madinah, for example, and departing via Jeddah.
  • Am I traveling with children or elderly relatives? To make the journey easier, travel with hand luggage only and book hotel-to-hotel transfers. Also avoid late-night flights.

Visiting Makkah is a trip of a lifetime. For a stress-free experience, consider your travel options carefully and make sure you have the most up-to-date visa information.

Related information

Hajj and Umrah visa information
How to get around in Makkah: the best transport options for you

How to prepare for a Hajj pilgrimage

Wondering how to get to Makkah and what to bring? Enjoy a smooth trip with essential Hajj tips to help with booking, packing and budgeting for your sacred pilgrimage.

Introduction

From important rituals and spiritual preparation to package pitfalls and financial considerations, here’s what you need to know before setting off on your Makkah travels.

Overall Planning for a Pilgrimage to Makkah

Your once-in-a-lifetime journey requires physical, spiritual and practical preparation. While modern transportation makes Hajj accessible to pilgrims of all fitness levels, it can still be an arduous trip. Start a workout regimen that includes walking and strength-building exercises at least a month before you leave. Add more fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods to your diet. If necessary, consult your physician to get approval for travel. Your paperwork needs to be in order, so pay attention to visa requirements. It’s a good idea to make a will before you leave.

Spiritual preparation is equally important. To attain the needed state of purity, you must repent sins, redress wrongs and reconcile unsettled issues with people in your life. Practice patience, avoid conflict and refrain from sin as you strengthen your relationship with Allah. Learn your prayers by heart and study the Hajj rituals you will soon perform.

Booking a Trip to Makkah

Don’t trust just any Hajj organizer you find online. Book with an agency authorized by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. For protection against fraud, pay with a credit card instead of a debit card or bank transfer. Get as many details as you can about the Hajj package, such as Makkah hotel names and the number of people who will share a room. Inquire about included meals, in-country transportation and the distances between locations on the itinerary. As Muzdalifah has limited facilities and can get crowded, it’s a good idea to get specifics about your night under the stars.

But booking Makkah travel isn’t just about logistics and physical comforts. Read online reviews to find agencies that can cater to your spiritual needs as well. Consider group dynamics to make sure your companions have like-minded spirits.

Packing for Your Muslim Pilgrimage

As you could be away from home for weeks, begin with a complete packing list. Three sets of Ihram clothing are advisable, as you’re almost guaranteed to get them dirty while outdoors. Bring two types of footwear — durable waterproof slippers for bathroom visits during the pilgrimage, and comfortable shoes for long walks. A pocket Quran will come in handy, as will a pocket prayer mat when you find yourself on the go at Salah time. Consider downloading the sacred text to your phone, along with a guide to Hajj rituals.

You’ll want a small backpack for incidentals on your trip to Mina. An umbrella will shade you from the desert sun. Remember that toiletries should be scent free. Search online for halal-friendly travel kits that include sunscreen, conditioning shampoo, unscented soap and lip balm.

Considering Hajj Costs

During the journey, pilgrims must be debt free with enough savings to provide for dependents at home. While the pilgrimage is affordable for most locals, those living outside of Saudi Arabia can expect the total cost to range from US$3,000 to US$10,000 per person. You will use cash for many of the day-to-day expenses. See if you can exchange money at home so you’ll have at least 500 Saudi riyals (US$130) when you arrive. To get cash while in the Kingdom, you’ll find an ample number of banks, currency exchanges and ATMs in and around Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah.

As Saudi Arabia can be an expensive country, make a budget and consider what costs you will incur. If your mobile plan doesn’t have international coverage, a local SIM card (about US$100) allows you to stay in touch while away from home. Does your Hajj package include dining at local restaurants? You will also want to budget money for sadaqah (charitable giving) and the Eid al-Adha ritual; the obligatory animal sacrifice costs between US$80 and US$150.

From upscale boutiques to bustling open-air markets, Saudi Arabia has some of the world’s most memorable shopping opportunities. Make a list of people you wish to buy Hajj souvenirs for, and plan how much you intend to spend on each.

But the best Hajj preparation tip is also the simplest: Open your heart to the wonders that await.

5 amazing facts about Makkah you never knew

There are some things that every Muslim knows about Makkah – but a lot of interesting information that very few people know. Amaze your friends with this unusual Makkah facts!

World’s highest prayer room

A tiny prayer room (musalla) lies 600 meters above sea level in the Makkah Clock Royal Tower hotel by Fairmont. With space for just six or seven people, it is contained within the tower’s crescent. The distance to the Kaaba is just 500 meters, making it the closest of all prayer rooms in Makkah.

A key part of Vision 2030

Over 8.75 million pilgrims entered Makkah for Hajj and Umrah last year, with the vast majority coming from outside the Kingdom. Including the growing number of business travelers, the total number of visitors to Saudi Arabia is expected to rise to 30 million per year by 2030.

 

Crowds_Makkah

Over 8.75 million pilgrims visited Makkah last year

 

A major aim of the Vision 2030 plan initiated by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is to welcome these visitors in safety and comfort. Given its importance as a city holy to Muslims worldwide, Makkah is at the center of this comprehensive development plan covering public transport, education, infrastructure, accommodation and more.

Largest automated waste network in the world

When your attention is focused on the religious sites and bustling city center of Makkah, you might forget what goes on in the background to sustain the holy city.

To deal with the city’s waste, including the 600 tons generated per day during Hajj and Ramadan, Makkah has the world’s largest automated waste transport network. Waste is transported from 318 collection points to a Central Utility Complex outside the city, via 30 km of underground pipelines.

First ever car on Arabian peninsula

You’ll see lots of luxury cars driving down the highways of Saudi Arabia and around Makkah – and may even be driving one yourself! – but did you know that the first car to enter the Arabian Peninsula was in Mecca? It was owned by Sharif Awn Al-Rafiq, ruler of Makkah from 1882 to 1905.

Abraj Al Bait: the biggest, brightest, best…

The famous Abraj Al Bait complex in central Makkah breaks many records – including the record for the number of superlatives you can use to describe it. The 600-meter Clock Royal Tower containing the Fairmont hotel is the world’s third tallest building – and of course, those clock faces are also the world’s largest, visible from as far as 17 km away. The clock sparkles at night with millions of LEDs and 26 powerful searchlights beam out from the top, lighting up the heavens up to 10 km high.

 

Makkah-View-Clock-Tower

The world’s largest clock tower in Abraj Al Bait

 

The floor area of the Abraj Al Bait complex covers more than 1.5 million square meters, making it the largest building in the world. Discover it for yourself when you stay in one of Makkah’s luxury Accor hotels!

Introducing the mosques of Makkah

When you hear the words “mosques in Makkah”, your mind turns to Al Masjid Al Haram, the Grand Mosque or Holy Mosque. However, Makkah is packed with many other mosques of great religious and historical significance. Here is an essential guide to some important mosques and miqat stations in Makkah.

Aisha Mosque (Al Taneem Mosque)

On the road north to Madinah, Al Taneem Mosque is one of the most important mosques in Makkah. It is also called Aisha Mosque because it was built in the place where Aisha (May Allah be pleased with her), wife of Mohammed (PBUH), went into ihram. It serves as a miqat station, with facilities for pilgrims to change into ihram clothing before entering Makkah city center.

Nimra Mosque

 

Arafat_Nimra_Mosque

Nimra Mosque on the Plains of Arafat

 

Although only two prayers per year are offered at this mosque, it is one of the most famous and important in Makkah. It was here, on the plains of Arafat, that Mohammed (PBUH) delivered his Farewell Sermon in 632. On the ninth day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, Hajj pilgrims spend the day on the plains of Arafat in rituals and prayer.

Around 21 km southeast of the Grand Mosque, the Nimra Mosque is accessible during Hajj via the Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro line. Thanks to expansion works, the mosque can accommodate around 350,000 worshippers.

Al Khayf Mosque

One of the oldest mosques in Makkah, Al Khayf Mosque stands at the foot of a mountain in Mina about 10 km east of the Grand Mosque. It is near the smallest jamara, one of three walls used for the ritual stoning of the devil. Following the example of Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), Hajj pilgrims pray here during their stay in Mina.

Expanded with four new minarets, air conditioning and toilets, the mosque can accommodate 45,000 worshippers and is accessible during Hajj via Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro line.

 

Al Khayf Mosque

Al Khayf Mosque, one of Mecca’s oldest, has recently been expanded

 

Aqaba Mosque

Also known as Bayah Mosque, this mosque is located to the right of Jamaraat Bridge, near the Jamara of Aqaba used for stoning the devil. It was built by the Caliph Abu Jaafar al-Mansur in 761 on the spot were Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) met with tribal leaders from Yathrib (now Madinah). After swearing the oath of allegiance to Islam, they became the Ansar, or “Helpers”.

Mosque of the Jinn

One of the most ancient mosques in Makkah, the Mosque of the Jinn is close to the Grand Mosque. It marks the spot where a group of Jinn is said to have gathered to hear The Prophet (PBUH) recite from the Koran. As a result, they embraced Islam. It is a popular mosque to visit in Makkah, but has no women’s section.

Al Ji’ranah Mosque

Northeast of Makkah, Al Ji’ranah Mosque is where The Prophet (PBUH) entered into ihram after the Battle of Hunayn in the year 630. Following this example, the mosque is now a well-equipped miqat station.

Other places to visit in Makkah

Looking for more ideas? See some places to visit in Makkah, including museums and holy sites.

Discover the 5 key benefits of Hajj

Are you considering performing Hajj? Here are some major benefits of Hajj for you and your family.

Islam involves daily acts of worship such as prayer, weekly acts such as Friday prayers, and annual acts such as fasting over Ramadan. The Hajj pilgrimage is a once-in-a-lifetime act of worship. It brings great spiritual benefits to the pilgrim and his or her family.

 

Man-Praying-Hajj

The Hajj helps you learn patience and self-restraint

 

A pillar of Islam

Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, required of all Muslim adults who are physically and financially able to make the journey. Those who perform the Hajj, known as Hajjis, may be treated with renewed respect in their communities. They may also gain self-esteem for having paid this respect to Allah.

Learn patience, self-restraint and endurance

However you make the Hajj journey, it will probably involve long and tiring travel. The rituals themselves may be strenuous, particularly during Makkah’s hot summers and amid crowds of other pilgrims. With good planning and high-quality accommodation, you can avoid some hardships. However, one of the benefits of Hajj is to learn patience and to stay strong even when experiencing temptation or tiredness.

A spiritual and historical travel experience

Before, during and after Hajj, you can visit places where historical and religiously significant events took place. For example, you can pay your respects at the cemetery of Jannat Al Mu’alla, where some of the Prophet (PBUH)’s ancestors were buried. Museums in Makkah include the Kiswa Factory, where the Kaaba cover is crafted each year, and the Exhibition of 2 Holy Mosques Architecture about the Grand Mosque in Makkah and Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah.

Strengthen the unity of Muslims

Hajj cleanses the soul, bringing purity, hope and renewal. By strengthening individual faith, it also strengthens the unity of all followers of Islam. Ihram clothing minimizes differences between Muslims of different nationalities and social classes. The Hajj, by bringing together so many Muslims in one place at one time, enhances communication and strengthens shared identity.

Discover Saudi Arabia

As well as visiting Makkah, pilgrims can discover some of Saudi Arabia’s other important cities and destinations. In the port city of Jeddah on the Red Sea, you can explore the old town, Al Balad, and walk along the Corniche next to sandy beaches and the sea. East of Makkah in the Sarawat Mountains, the resort town of Taif is popular for its cooler weather and greenery. After the Hajj or Umrah, pilgrims often travel to Saudi Arabia’s second holiest city, Madinah, to pray in The Prophet’s Mosque.

Booking Hajj or Umrah

As the Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and can be strenuous, it is important to stay in a comfortable hotel. When booking your Hajj trip, consider staying at one of these 5-star hotels in Makkah, located in Abraj Al Bait within walking distance of the Haram.

 

Exterior_Kaaba

The Hajj brings together followers of Islam from around the world

Learn what to wear for the Hajj and Umrah

Do you ever feel confused about what to wear during Hajj or Umrah? Ihram clothing is obligatory during the pilgrimage and is an essential part of entering the state of purity and devotion known as ihram. Here are some essential guidelines to help you plan your clothing.

 

What to wear for the Hajj

Family of pilgrims wearing ihram clothing

 

Ihram clothing symbolizes the unity of Muslims and minimizes visible differences between them. Its simplicity and uniformity make it hard to tell the rich from the poor, the rulers from the ruled. Note that you can change ihram clothing at any time if it is torn, dirty, invalid or contaminated by perfume.

Ihram clothing for men

Men’s ihram clothing consists of two white cloths, without seams, hems or buttons.

  • The bottom half, the izar, is wrapped around the waist covering the area between the navel and feet.
  • The top half, the rida, covers the left shoulder at all times. The right shoulder should be exposed while performing the tawaf.
  • Don’t wear underwear, socks or any other clothes, and don’t cover your head.
  • Wear footwear that reveals the ankles and toes.

Ihram clothing for women

Women’s ihram dress is a loose (not tight-fitting) robe covering the whole body.

  • The robe can have seams and buttons, but should be free of adornments or colors.
  • It can be white or black.
  • Your hands and face should remain exposed.
  • Wear shoes that cover the entire foot.

Learn more practical tips for Hajj and Umrah

For more practical advice, see our day-by-day Hajj guide or Umrah guide.

The Importance of Balanced Nutritious Food During Hajj

Every year, millions of believers around the world head to the city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia to complete the Hajj rituals.

As one of the pillars of the Islam faith, Hajj is a religious pilgrimage undertaken by devout and practicing Muslims from the four corners of the planet, providing them with the opportunity to experience sacred rites such as completing the Sai Circuit, drinking holy water from the Well of Zamzam, or completing the Qurban.

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An exercise of faith, inner peace and religious connection, the pilgrimage is also a very physically-demanding process that requires a certain amount of sharpness and good health. Muslims are often known to undertake the Hajj ritual when they’re in their physical prime, in order to endure and enjoy the spiritual bonds and marvel in the Sacred City, without worry or physical strain.

One of the most influential factors on the human health and body wellness is, of course, maintaining a balanced and nourishing diet. Today, more and more people have taken notice of the importance of following a rigorous plan for their Hajj rituals. This helps combat conditions such as acute fatigue and dehydration which commonly occur because of the extreme weather of the city as well as physical demands of the pilgrimage.

On the physical end, it is important to start building up your stamina even before your trip. Taking long walks and going on regular running sessions can help better acclimate your body with the trip to come, as endurance will be of the essence.

Many of the Hajj foods common in the Arab Gulf and Saudi Arabia include seeds, grains, nuts and dried fruits. Dates, in particular, are favoured in the Sacred City. Rich in vitamins and proteins, these foods will help build up your stamina and keep your body in top shape.

Makkah is known for its very hot weather, which is why dehydration is one of the most common and unfortunate conditions that pilgrims experience during their holy rituals in the Sacred City. Consuming fresh fruits and water-based vegetables such as watermelons, cucumbers, oranges and green tea leaves will help you maintain your body water and fight off dehydration.

In order to minimize muscle cramping and help your body build stamina, try to consume foods that are rich in Potassium such as bananas and avocados. You can also look for local ingredients such as aloe gel or turmeric.

Accor Hotels have some of the best restaurants in Makkah for pilgrims to stay healthy during Hajj and Umrah.

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