Mecca, which is the oldest and holiest site in Islam, may be found in the Hijaz area of western Saudi Arabia. Mecca is an important destination for Muslims all over the world because of its position.
It is claimed that the Prophet Muhammad had a revelation of the Quran, the most sacred book in Islam, at this location.
Middle East Eye examines what the lesser-known Umrah pilgrimage comprises at a time when Saudi Arabia has lifted the interim restriction on Umrah pilgrimages to Mecca and Medina for Saudi nationals and residents of the country.
What’s Umrah?
The annual pilgrimage to Mecca known as the Hajj is referred to by its shorter alternative term, Umrah. The act of traveling to a city or other densely populated area is referred to as umrah in Arabic.
Muslims have the opportunity to refresh their faith, seek forgiveness, and pray for themselves and their families during the Umrah pilgrimage. It is believed that whomever does it would have their sins washed away.
What are the main differences between Umrah and Hajj?
Umrah is voluntary, while Hajj is required for all physically and financially able Muslims. Umrah is a lesser pilgrimage.
The pilgrimage known as the Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, and all practicing Muslims are expected to perform it at least once during their lifetimes, if they are able.
Hajj is only performed between the 8th and 13th of Dhul Hijah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar, between the 8th and 13th of the month. Umra is performed at any time during the year, but Hajj is only performed between those two dates.
The Umrah can be completed in fewer than two hours, however this does depend on how crowded it is. The Hajj is a ritual that takes place over a period of days and is more involved.
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How can Pilgrims Travel to Umrah?
Pilgrims from countries other than Saudi Arabia often come by plane and are required to submit an application for a specialized Umrah visa that is valid for one month. They are also required to have proof that they have been vaccinated against meningitis and must present the proper papers.
It is possible for visitors coming from countries that are close by to cross borders by car, but they will need a visa to do so.
No special paperwork is needed for Saudi nationals or for people who are already living and working in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Umrah and Hajj can be undertaken by Muslims of any age, and there are no limits placed on the number of times a person can conduct either pilgrimage throughout the course of their lifetime.
However, women who are younger than 45 years old are required to be accompanied by a male relative or family member who is at least 17 years old. After the age of 45, women are permitted to travel independently with tour groups without the accompaniment of a mahram.
In the neighborhood of the Masjid al-Haraam, you’ll find a wide range of hotels, from those with more reasonable rates to those with seven stars.
Umrah Packages 2023
D Travel Company provides a variety of travel packages, each of which includes the quickest possible processing of Umrah visas, a higher level of service at the most affordable price, comfortable hotels in Economy class, the best customer support available while you are traveling, and the assurance that there will be no false travels with them. In addition to that, they provide packages ranging from budget economy to five star luxury!
In addition to that, the ability to customize your own Umrah package is also available!
The most popular bundles include the following items:
1. 21 Days Economy Umrah
2. 15 Days 3 Star Umrah
3. 21 Days 3 Star Umrah
4. 10 Days 5 Star Umrah