Things You should Know Before Going to Perform Umrah

All the Muslims around the world possess an utmost wish to have a blessed journey of Hejaz, at least once in their life. For this purpose, millions of Muslims travel towards Makkah and Medinah every year to perform Hajj and Umrah. As the Hajj can be performed once a year, therefore the number of pilgrims leaving for the Umrah is in billion. Today, we are going to discuss some basic aspects and rules of performing Umrah as most of the pilgrims are leaving for the spiritual journey for the first time. Please keep in mind that all the rituals of Umrah are performed in Makkah and it is not obligatory to visit Medinah. But it can’t be imagine leaving the Hejaz before visiting the Holy city of the Prophet (P.B.U.H).

The Difference between Hajj and Umrah:

Although, Hajj & Umrah are both the Islamic pilgrimages yet there is a difference between them due to their importance and method of observance. Islam has five basic pillars and Hajj is one of them. Also, it is obligatory for every Muslim to perform Hajj once in his/her life (if they can financially afford it and are in a good state of physical health). The Hajj can only be undertaken only once a year on specific days i.e. 8th to 12th of Dhu-al-Hijjah. On the other hand, Umrah is not mandatory and can be performed at any time of the year. Umrah has fewer rituals as compared to Hajj. There are two main types of Umrah.

1. Umrat al-Tamattu:

If a pilgrim performs the Umrah combined with Hajj, then this type of Umrah is known as umrat al-tamattu.

2. Umrah Mufradah:

The umrah mufradah is a single type of umrah without performing the hajj.

There are a lot of things which you should keep in mind while leaving for the umrah. Here we are discussing only a few of them which are of extreme importance.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Documents:

You will be in great trouble if you forget any of your travel documents especially the ID card or passport. Following are the documents which you should not forget while leaving for the Umrah. ID card, passport, air tickets, hotel voucher, travel tickets and the last but not least is the Umrah Visa.

Attend the Umrah Classes:

It would be great if you have some good knowledge of all the rules of Umrah before leaving for it. For this purpose make sure to read some good books about performing Umrah or you can take the Umrah classes from a reputable institute.

Choose Your Travel Agent/Agency Smartly:

Never rely on so-called “cheap umrah packages” as most of them are usually misleading and you may found yourself in great trouble if you go for such travel services. There are many good and reputable travel agencies in the market which are offering the economical umrah packages with good accommodation and transport service. Always check twice before you choose a travel agent as they are the only one who will assist you during your journey. Read the feedback and check the user ratings of your travel agency to avoid any trouble.