Umrah travel has now become quite easier than it used to be in the past. Where one can travel through Umrah packages from UK by obtaining a proper Umrah visa, the Kingdom now also permits the performance of Umrah rituals on one’s tourist visa to Saudia Arabia. Therefore, paving the way for an enhanced Umrah travel experience for Muslims from across the globe.

If you are planning to offer Umrah rituals in 2023, here are some of the things to conder.

Best time

Though the best time to travel for Umrah in 2023 solely depends upon one’s personal preferences, budget, and availability of time – some months are very popular in this regard. Such as;

Ramadan

The month of Ramadan brings the largest crowds to Haramain because of the higher rewards associated with it. As narrated in the Hadith of Hazrat Muhammad (SAWW), umrah's performance in Ramadan is equivalent to Hajj in reward. So, millions travel for the holy rituals during this month resulting in expensive Umrah travel and accommodation services as well.

December

December, on the other hand, is quite relaxed in terms of weather as well as the cost of travel and accommodation for Umrah rituals. Also, the lesser number of pilgrims in Haramain makes it an ideal time for Umrah travel with family. You can even get luxury Umrah travel and accommodation services on an economy budget due to the various promotional offers and discounts going on.

Visa

All of the pilgrims wishing to offer Umrah rituals are required to obtain a visa for it before their arrival in the region. There are two types of visas that one can obtain for Umrah performance;

1. Umrah visa
Umrah visas are issued specifically for the purpose of Umrah to pilgrims from across the globe. They can only be obtained through the channel of an authorized travel agent and have a validity of two weeks for performing the holy rituals.

2. Tourist visa
Umrah on a tourist visa is only permissible for residents of specific countries. This visa is available through e-services as well as visa on arrival facility for the pilgrims.

In this regard, visit the official website of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for detailed guidance on the subject.

Accommodation

Getting quality accommodation for your Umrah stay in Makkah as well as Madinah is a challenge. With lots of options to choose from, it’s difficult to select a hotel that best suits your affordability and needs. However, you can hire professional assistance from Umrah travel agents in this regard and leave the accommodation hassles to them.

There are plenty of hotel accommodation options available in both cities offering 3-star economy to 7-star luxury living facilities. So, shortlist the ones as per your budget and needs and ask your travel agent to make arrangements for them on your behalf.

Essentials

• Familiarize yourself with the rituals of Umrah; their significance as well as the rewards associated. Also, learn about the prohibitions of Ihram and the permissible acts to do.
• Learn the necessary duas and supplications to recite during your Umrah performance.
• Travel light by only carrying your essentials along such as;
o Necessary toiletries.
o Clothes and Ihram
o Medicines.
o Footwear.
o Travel documents.
o Local currency.
• Arrange for your local transportation needs in Makkah and Madinah beforehand. Choose whether you want to travel in buses with groups or privately in a car.
• Get yourself vaccinated before your departure.
• Follow all the local laws as well as respect their customs, cultural norms, and religious sensitivities during your stay in Saudia Arabia.

These are some of the things to consider for your Umrah guide 2023.