Madinah Makkah

Author: Malik Sherjeel Awan

  • Umrah in Winter: Weather, Packing and Planning for the Cooler Months

    Umrah in Winter: Weather, Packing and Planning for the Cooler Months

    Many pilgrims choose the cooler months for Umrah. Walking between your hotel and the mosque is gentler, and long days in the courtyards feel less tiring than in summer. Winter still needs a little planning, though: evenings can feel cool, Madinah is often noticeably cooler than Makkah, and rain can arrive suddenly.

    This guide covers the practical side: checking the weather, packing, rain safety and booking. It quotes no temperatures, dates or prices. For current conditions, always use the National Center for Meteorology (NCM), and for permits, the official Nusuk platform.

    Quick answer

    Short answer: Before and during a winter Umrah, check the National Center for Meteorology for the Makkah and Madinah regions and its early warnings. Pack light layers for evenings and air-conditioned spaces, a compact umbrella and comfortable shoes with good grip. Book your Umrah permit through Nusuk, and plan for busier periods around school holidays.

    Check the weather the official way

    The NCM website has forecast pages for each region, including the Makkah and Madinah regions, and a dedicated Mashaer weather section. It also runs a weather early warning system for alerts such as heavy rain or dust.

    Check the forecast a few days before you fly, and again each morning of your stay. Conditions can change quickly in winter, and your plan for the day may change with them.

    Key takeaways

    • Official forecasts: the NCM publishes regional forecasts for Makkah and Madinah and a Mashaer weather page.
    • Alerts: the NCM’s early warning system lists current weather warnings.
    • Permits: the Nusuk services list includes booking an Umrah permit and a Rawdah visit permit.
    • No fixed figures here: temperatures vary year to year, so we don’t quote them. Check the forecast instead.

    Packing for cooler days and evenings

    Winter packing is about layers, not heavy coats. You will move between outdoor courtyards, air-conditioned halls, buses and hotel rooms, and comfort can change from one to the next.

    Winter Umrah packing list

    • A light jacket, cardigan or shawl for evenings and air-conditioned spaces
    • Warm socks for the hotel and the journey
    • A compact umbrella or light rain cover
    • Comfortable, broken-in shoes with good grip for wet floors
    • Lip balm and moisturiser for dry air
    • A small bag for shoes and a reusable water bottle
    • Any regular medicines in their original packaging, with a copy of your prescription

    For anything to do with ihram clothing and what it allows, ask your group’s scholar or a qualified person you trust. This guide covers only clothing and items outside ihram.

    Tip

    Madinah evenings often feel cooler than Makkah. If your trip includes both cities, keep your warmest layer handy for the Madinah leg.

    Rain and safety

    Winter rain in the region can be heavy, and water can collect quickly on roads and in low areas. Follow the NCM’s warnings and any instructions from your hotel, your group leader and the authorities on site.

    Warning

    If a weather warning is in place, avoid valleys, underpasses and flooded roads, and never try to walk or drive through moving water. In an emergency, ask hotel staff, your group leader or the nearest security officer for help straight away.

    Marble and tiled floors can be slippery when wet. Walk carefully, take smaller steps and keep a hand free near stairs and escalators, especially if you are travelling with elderly family members.

    Planning your dates and bookings

    The cooler months can be popular, and some periods are busier than others, such as school holidays in many countries. If you have flexibility, compare a few possible weeks before you commit.

    Booking a winter Umrah, step by step

    1

    Choose a window: pick two or three possible weeks and check flights and hotel availability for each.

    2

    Check the official requirements: use the official Nusuk platform for current Umrah rules and services.

    3

    Book your Umrah permit: the Nusuk services list includes Umrah permit booking. Book once your travel dates are clear.

    4

    Plan Madinah: if you hope to visit the Rawdah, the Nusuk services list includes a Rawdah permit. Check availability early.

    5

    Re-check the forecast: a few days before you fly, look at the NCM forecasts and pack accordingly.

    If you are travelling with a licensed operator, ask them how they handle winter weather days, such as changes to transport times. Our guide to choosing a licensed Umrah package explains what to check.

    Making the most of the cooler weather

    Milder weather can make it easier to walk to prayers, spend longer in the courtyards and visit places such as Quba or Uhud during your Madinah stay. Plan outings for the drier parts of the day and keep an eye on the forecast.

    Cooler weather does not mean you can skip water. Indoor air can be dry, and long walks still tire you, so keep drinking water regularly and rest when you need to.

    TopicSummerWinter
    Main weather concernHeat and sunCool evenings and occasional rain
    Packing focusSun protection, breathable clothesLight layers, umbrella, grippy shoes
    Daily checkHeat advice and shadeNCM forecasts and early warnings
    WalkingAvoid the hottest hoursAvoid wet, slippery surfaces
    Summer vs winter Umrah: what changes

    FAQ

    Is winter a good time for Umrah?

    Many pilgrims find the cooler weather more comfortable for walking and long days at the mosque. It can also be busy, so plan your dates and bookings early.

    Where can I check the weather in Makkah and Madinah?

    On the National Center for Meteorology website, which has regional forecasts and early warnings.

    Do I still need a Nusuk permit in winter?

    Permit rules don’t depend on the season. Check the current Umrah services on Nusuk before you travel.

    This article is practical guidance only and is not a religious ruling. Last checked 20 October 2026 (Asia/Riyadh) against the NCM website and early warning page and the official Nusuk homepage and services page (Arabic). Weather and services change; confirm on the official sites.

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  • Keeping Your Umrah Group Together: Meeting Points, Companions and Simple Plans

    Keeping Your Umrah Group Together: Meeting Points, Companions and Simple Plans

    Travelling for Umrah with family or friends is a blessing and a juggling act. Gates look alike, crowds move fast, and phones run out of battery at the worst moment. A little planning keeps everyone calm.

    This guide covers simple ways to stay together in Makkah and Madinah: linking companions in the Nusuk app, agreeing meeting points, sharing key details and knowing what to do if someone gets separated.

    Quick answer

    Short answer: Before you travel, add everyone as companions in the official Nusuk app so bookings sit together, and give each person a card with the hotel name and address. On arrival, agree one fixed meeting point per mosque, tied to a gate you can name. Pair up so nobody walks alone, keep phones charged, and agree a rule: if separated, go to the meeting point and wait.

    Start in the Nusuk app

    The official Nusuk services page lists a companion management service. It lets the main user add companions, link them to their account, organise their information and follow their bookings. The page says this supports coordination for group trips.

    The same page lists the Nusuk Card, a unique digital ID inside the app that links each user’s data, services and permits. Make sure every adult in the group can open their own permits on their own phone where possible.

    What helps a group stay organised

    • Companion management: add and link companions in Nusuk and follow their bookings.
    • Nusuk Card: a digital ID in the app that links each person’s permits and services.
    • Nusuk maps: interactive maps of prayer areas, services and facilities in the Two Holy Mosques.
    • A meeting point: one fixed, named place per mosque that everyone knows.

    Choose a meeting point you can name

    “Near the big door” is not a meeting point. Choose a place you can name and find again: a gate number, a clearly signed entrance or a fixed landmark outside. Walk there together once on the first day.

    Have one meeting point for Masjid al-Haram and one for the Prophet’s Mosque. Our guide to finding your way in Masjid al-Haram explains how gates and landmarks work.

    Share the basics on paper too

    Phones die and screens crack. Give every person, especially children and older relatives, a small card in their pocket with:

    • the hotel name and address, in English and Arabic
    • the group leader’s name
    • the meeting point for each mosque

    Do not write passport numbers on these cards. Keep passports and documents safe, as our guide on lost belongings at the Haram explains.

    Loose planClear plan
    “We’ll find each other”One named meeting point per mosque
    Bookings on one phone onlyCompanions linked in Nusuk
    Hotel name in someone’s headA pocket card for each person
    Everyone walks at their own pacePairs, with a set time to regroup
    Loose plan vs clear plan

    Plan for pace and needs

    Groups split most often when people walk at different speeds. Pair a faster walker with a slower one, and set regroup times rather than trying to stay in one long line.

    Think about who needs extra care. Older relatives may need rests or a wheelchair, and children need a hand to hold in crowds. See our guides on caring for elderly family on Umrah and bringing children on Umrah.

    If someone gets separated

    A simple separation plan

    1

    Stop and stay calm: do not run back into the crowd.

    2

    Go to the agreed meeting point and wait there.

    3

    Message or call the group if your phone works.

    4

    Ask official staff at the mosque for help if you cannot find the meeting point.

    5

    Wait together at the meeting point once you regroup, and count everyone before moving on.

    Warning

    Teach children to ask official staff for help, never to leave with someone they do not know. Agree this before your first visit to the mosque.

    Tip

    Agree a regroup time after each prayer, such as fifteen minutes at the meeting point. It saves a lot of searching.

    FAQ

    Can I manage my family’s bookings in Nusuk?

    The official services page lists companion and family member management. Check the current steps in the app.

    What is the best meeting point?

    A place you can name and find again, such as a gate number or a clearly signed entrance. Walk there together on day one.

    Should everyone have the app?

    Where possible, yes. It helps each adult show their own permits and use maps if separated.

    This article is practical guidance only and is not a religious ruling. Last checked 19 October 2026 (Asia/Riyadh) against the official Nusuk services page and homepage (Arabic). Features change; confirm in the official app.

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  • Using the Nusuk App During Your Stay: Maps, Prayer Times, Qibla and More

    Using the Nusuk App During Your Stay: Maps, Prayer Times, Qibla and More

    Most pilgrims first meet Nusuk when they book a permit. But the app keeps working after you land. The official Nusuk website describes it as the platform overseen by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, with more than 100 services for the journey.

    This guide looks at the tools that are useful once you are in Makkah or Madinah: getting around, prayer times, qibla, crowding and keeping your bookings in one place. For the permit itself, see our guide to booking an Umrah permit on Nusuk.

    Quick answer

    Short answer: Keep the official Nusuk app on your phone for the whole trip. According to the Nusuk services page, it includes interactive maps of the Two Holy Mosques, prayer times, a qibla finder, live prayer-hall crowding at the Prophet’s Mosque, the Digital Mutawwif, a Nusuk Card ID, companion management and connectivity packages. Service names and features can change, so check inside the app.

    Why keep Nusuk open after you arrive

    Your permits live in the app, including any Rawdah appointment. So do your bookings and the people travelling with you. Having one official app for these saves a lot of searching on a busy day.

    The Nusuk homepage also gives a simple safety tip: official Saudi websites for these activities end in “.sa”. That is a useful check before you tap any link sent to you.

    What the Nusuk services page lists

    • Nusuk maps: interactive maps of key sites in the Two Holy Mosques, prayer areas and facilities.
    • Prayer-hall crowding: live crowding status of prayer halls in the Prophet’s Mosque.
    • Prayer times and qibla: daily times and a phone-based qibla direction.
    • Digital Mutawwif: locates you in the Haram and shows supplications and guidance during Umrah.
    • Nusuk Card: a unique digital ID inside the app linking your data, services and permits.
    • Companions: add and link companions and follow their bookings.

    Getting around with Nusuk maps

    The Haram is large, with many gates, floors and prayer areas. The services page says Nusuk maps help users reach prayer areas, services and facilities. Use it alongside the signs, not instead of them.

    Save the gate you enter by, and agree a meeting point with your group. Our guide to finding your way in Masjid al-Haram has more on gates and landmarks.

    Prayer times, qibla and crowding

    Prayer times and the qibla finder are listed among the daily tools in the app. They are handy in your hotel room or when you pray away from the mosques.

    In Madinah, the services page lists a live view of crowding in the prayer halls of the Prophet’s Mosque. Checking it before you walk over can help you choose a less crowded area, especially with elderly family or children. For wider planning, see prayer times and crowds at the Two Holy Mosques.

    Before you arriveDuring your stay
    Create your account and add companionsKeep everyone’s permits easy to show
    Book your Umrah permitUse maps to find gates and prayer areas
    Check Rawdah availabilityCheck prayer-hall crowding in Madinah
    Consider a connectivity packageUse prayer times and qibla in your hotel
    Before you arrive vs during your stay

    The Digital Mutawwif

    The services page describes the Digital Mutawwif as a helper that locates you in the Haram and shows supplications and guidance while you perform Umrah. Some pilgrims find it reassuring to have the steps on screen.

    It is a guide, not a replacement for learning. Read the steps before you travel, and ask a knowledgeable person if you are unsure about anything.

    Setting up before you fly

    Five checks before your trip

    1

    Download the official app from your phone’s official app store, and confirm the publisher is the official Nusuk platform.

    2

    Sign in and check your profile matches your passport details.

    3

    Add your companions so their bookings sit with yours.

    4

    Find the maps, prayer times and qibla tools and try them once at home.

    5

    Plan for data: a local SIM, eSIM or the in-app packages, so the app works when you need it.

    Warning

    Use only the official Nusuk app and websites ending in “.sa”. Do not share your login or one-time codes with anyone, including people who offer to “help” with permits.

    Tip

    Keep your phone charged. A small power bank in your bag means maps and permits stay available during a long day. Check what to carry into the Haram first.

    FAQ

    Is Nusuk only for booking permits?

    No. The official services page lists many tools for the journey, including maps, prayer times, qibla and companion management.

    Does the app work without internet?

    Plan on needing data. Arrange a SIM, eSIM or a package before you rely on it.

    Is there a fee for these tools?

    Some services may have costs, such as connectivity packages. Fees are as listed on the official page or in the app; check before you pay.

    This article is practical guidance only and is not a religious ruling. Last checked 19 October 2026 (Asia/Riyadh) against the official Nusuk homepage and services page (Arabic). Features change; confirm in the official app.

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  • Saudi Customs for Umrah Pilgrims: Cash, Gold, Medicines and Gifts

    Saudi Customs for Umrah Pilgrims: Cash, Gold, Medicines and Gifts

    Most pilgrims walk through Saudi customs without a second thought. But a family carrying wedding gold, an elderly parent with three months of tablets, or a group leader holding everyone’s cash can run into delays if they don’t know the rules. This guide explains the Saudi customs rules for Umrah pilgrims in plain language, using the official pages of ZATCA, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority, and the SFDA, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority.

    It is general guidance only. Rules can change, so check the official pages before you fly.

    Quick answer

    Short answer: You must declare cash, cheques, gold, precious metals, gemstones and fine jewellery worth SAR 40,000 or more in total, and visit the customs declaration office after baggage collection. You also declare gifts or goods worth SAR 3,000 or more, tobacco over the allowance, and restricted items such as medicines and drones. Carry personal medicines with a prescription or medical report, and no more than you need for three months or your stay (ZATCA, SFDA).

    What you must declare

    At a glance

    • SAR 40,000 or more: cash, bearer instruments, gold, precious metals, gemstones and fine jewellery, added together (ZATCA).
    • Gifts or goods worth SAR 3,000 or more, or in commercial quantities (ZATCA e-service).
    • Tobacco over 200 cigarettes or 500 grams (ZATCA, Arabic).
    • Restricted items that need approval, such as medicines and drones.

    ZATCA says not declaring these items exposes you to legal penalties. Declaring is free.

    Cash and gold: the SAR 40,000 rule

    The threshold is a total, not per item. A family’s cash, a gold set brought for a daughter and a few gold bangles all count together. Many families travel with jewellery for weddings or gifts, so it is worth adding it up at home.

    If your total reaches SAR 40,000, ZATCA says you must go to the customs declaration office at the airport, even if you have already filled in the form electronically. For arriving passengers, the office is after passport control and the luggage collection point. You will be asked for papers showing ownership and the source of the money or goods (ZATCA).

    Tip

    Group leaders sometimes carry cash for the whole group. That total counts as one traveller’s money. Agree in advance who carries what, and keep exchange receipts or bank papers.

    Medicines: what the SFDA asks for

    Many pilgrims travel with regular medicines for blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid or heart conditions. The SFDA’s personal-use conditions set out the main points:

    • Bring a prescription or medical report and your ID.
    • Carry no more than three months’ supply, or enough for your stay, whichever is less. Extra quantities are not cleared.
    • Controlled medicines, such as some strong painkillers, sleep or anxiety medicines, follow stricter rules. Carry a prescription and check the SFDA’s current rules before you travel.
    • Some substances are prohibited altogether.

    For controlled medicines, the SFDA runs a traveller clearance request system where you upload the prescription and medicine details before travel. If you are not sure whether your medicine is controlled, ask your doctor or pharmacist before you fly, and check with the SFDA.

    Packing medicines for Umrah

    1

    Ask your doctor for a short report listing each medicine, its strength and dose.

    2

    Keep medicines in original packs with the pharmacy label.

    3

    Count the days: pack enough for the trip plus a little extra, within the limits above.

    4

    Carry them in hand luggage, so delays to checked bags don’t leave you without them.

    5

    Check controlled medicines early and apply for clearance if needed.

    Gifts, food and other goods

    If you are bringing gifts for relatives in the Kingdom, ZATCA asks you to declare goods worth SAR 3,000 or more or in commercial quantities. For these, you can declare and pay any fees through the ZATCA app or website without visiting the office.

    Drones and other restricted goods need approval before you bring them. Prohibited goods cannot be brought in at all; check ZATCA’s lists if you are unsure about an item.

    ItemOnline (app or website)Visit the declaration office
    Gifts or goods worth SAR 3,000 or moreYes, and pay fees onlineNot needed
    Tobacco above the allowanceYesNot needed
    Cash, gold or jewellery of SAR 40,000+Fill in the formYes, required
    Restricted or prohibited itemsFill in the formYes, required
    Declare online or at the office?

    Leaving Saudi Arabia

    On departure, ZATCA’s declaration list is shorter: currency, gold, precious metals, gemstones and jewellery worth SAR 40,000 or more, and items banned from export, such as antiquities. For departing passengers, the declaration office is after the check-in counters and before the departure hall.

    Before you fly for Umrah

    • Add up cash and jewellery for each traveller
    • Keep bank or exchange receipts
    • Doctor’s report and original packs for every medicine
    • Check whether any medicine is controlled
    • List gifts worth SAR 3,000 or more
    • Save ZATCA’s contact options from zatca.gov.sa, or use the ZATCA app

    Note

    For what you can bring into the mosques themselves, see our guide to what to carry into the Haram. For your pre-flight list, see the first-timer checklist.

    FAQ

    Do I have to declare wedding jewellery?

    Yes, if your cash, gold and jewellery together are worth SAR 40,000 or more. Declaring is a procedure, not a fine, and protects you if questions arise later.

    Can I bring three months of my regular tablets?

    The SFDA allows up to three months’ supply or enough for your stay, whichever is less, with a prescription or medical report. For controlled medicines, carry a prescription and check the SFDA’s current rules before travel.

    Where is the declaration office at the airport?

    For arriving passengers, ZATCA says it is after passport control and baggage collection.

    Can I declare online instead of queuing?

    For gifts of SAR 3,000 or more and tobacco, yes, through the ZATCA app or website. For cash or jewellery of SAR 40,000 or more and restricted items, you must still visit the office.

    This article is practical travel guidance only and is not legal or medical advice. Last checked 14 October 2026 against ZATCA’s traveller declaration pages and the SFDA’s personal-use medicine conditions. Rules change; follow ZATCA and the SFDA.

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  • Where to Stay for Umrah: Hotel Booking Checks in Makkah and Madinah

    Where to Stay for Umrah: Hotel Booking Checks in Makkah and Madinah

    Where you sleep shapes the whole trip. A well-placed, honestly described hotel saves you walking, waiting and worry. Most problems come from the same few gaps: a booking made without checking the licence, a distance that was “close” only on the advert, or terms nobody read. This guide covers the checks worth making before you pay. It does not recommend hotels or quote prices, which change by season.

    Quick answer

    Short answer: Book only a licensed property. The Ministry of Tourism offers an online service to verify the licence status of hotels and serviced apartments in Makkah and Madinah, and the official Nusuk Umrah platform offers packages that include accommodation in Makkah and Madinah. Before paying, confirm in writing the dates, the room, what is included, the cancellation terms and the real walking route to the mosque.

    Three ways people book

    RouteWhat to knowCheck first
    Inside a licensed Umrah packageHotel, transport and services come bundledThe company is licensed, and the package names the hotel and nights
    The Nusuk Umrah platformOfficial packages that can include accommodation in Makkah and MadinahThe hotel name, nights, what is included and the payment screen
    Directly with a hotel or a booking siteMost flexibility, most checkingThe property’s licence and the terms in writing
    Booking routes

    If you are travelling with a group, ask the organiser for the exact hotel name and number of nights in writing. Our guide to choosing a licensed Umrah package covers how to check the company first.

    Check the licence before you pay

    In March 2025 the Ministry of Tourism launched an online service that lets visitors verify the licence status of hotels and serviced apartments in Makkah and Madinah, through its official website. The Saudi Press Agency described it as a way to help visitors make informed decisions when booking (SPA).

    Use it for any property you did not book through an official channel. If a host cannot give you a property name and licence details, treat that as a reason to look elsewhere.

    Warning

    Be careful with offers that arrive through messaging apps or social media, ask for a deposit by transfer to a personal account and cannot name the property. Pay only through traceable channels, and keep the booking confirmation.

    What the star rating tells you

    The ministry’s hotel classification criteria describe a hotel as a facility providing paid lodging with full services on a daily basis, classified by stars. Classification uses a three-step grading process: mandatory requirements, minimum criteria and a minimum score for each category (Ministry of Tourism). The same criteria list a printed and published price list, available at reception and online, among the requirements.

    In practice, a star rating tells you the property has been graded against published criteria. It does not tell you how far the hotel is from the mosque, which floor your room is on or how busy the lifts get. Check those yourself.

    Booking through Nusuk

    Nusuk Umrah, the official platform under the supervision of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, offers Umrah packages that can include accommodation in Makkah and Madinah alongside transport and other services, and some packages can be customised (Nusuk Umrah). Screens and options in the app change from time to time, so follow what the app shows you rather than a fixed list of steps.

    Check the room type, guests and dates before you pay, and screenshot the confirmation. Our Nusuk permit guide explains the app itself.

    Distance is a route, not a number

    Adverts often say “minutes from the Haram”. Ask instead:

    Questions to put to the hotel in writing

    • Which gate or entrance is the nearest, and is the walk flat or does it include stairs and slopes?
    • Is there step-free access, a working lift and a ground-floor option for anyone who struggles with distance?
    • What are the check-in and check-out times, and can bags be held if your room is not ready?
    • Which meals, if any, are included?
    • What is the cancellation and refund policy, in the booking language you understand?
    • Is the room type, bed arrangement and number of guests exactly what you booked?

    If an older relative is travelling with you, put walking distance and lifts at the top of the list. Our guide to caring for elderly family on Umrah has more on pacing.

    Planning around the seasons

    Rooms near the mosques fill early for Ramadan, school holidays and the weeks around the busiest Umrah periods. If your dates are fixed, book as early as your plans allow, and check the Nusuk permit rules for your dates before you commit to non-refundable terms. A hotel booking does not replace an Umrah permit.

    If you are moving between the two cities, line up your check-out and check-in dates with your transport. Our guide to travelling between Makkah and Madinah helps with that.

    On arrival

    A calm arrival routine

    1

    Confirm the booking: show your confirmation and ID at reception.

    2

    Photograph the room: note any damage before you unpack.

    3

    Save the hotel’s name and address: screenshot it and keep a written copy in your bag.

    4

    Walk the route once: learn the way to the mosque in daylight before your first visit.

    5

    Ask about services: such as laundry, luggage storage and prayer-time arrangements.

    A hotel name in Arabic and English is also the easiest thing to show a driver or staff member if you get turned around. Our guide to finding your way in Masjid al-Haram has more on meeting points and getting back.

    FAQ

    How do I check that a hotel in Makkah or Madinah is licensed?

    Use the Ministry of Tourism’s online licence verification service for hotels and serviced apartments, available through its official website.

    Can I book accommodation through Nusuk?

    Yes. The official Nusuk Umrah platform offers packages that include accommodation in Makkah and Madinah. Check the hotel name, nights and terms before you pay.

    Does a higher star rating mean a closer hotel?

    No. Stars reflect classification against the ministry’s criteria. Distance and access are separate, so ask about them directly.

    This article is practical guidance only. Last checked 20 October 2026 against the SPA announcement, the Ministry of Tourism classification criteria and the Nusuk Umrah platform. Services change; follow the official channels.

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  • Choosing a Licensed Umrah Package: How to Check and Avoid Scams

    Choosing a Licensed Umrah Package: How to Check and Avoid Scams

    Every season, some families save for years, pay an agent, and then discover at the last minute that there is no visa, no hotel or no agent answering the phone. Scams and poor-quality operators are a real risk for pilgrims, and consular warnings specifically mention fake visas and fraudulent tour operators (U.S. Mission Saudi Arabia).

    The good news is that checking a licensed Umrah package is now much easier. This guide explains how to use the official Nusuk Umrah platform, what to ask any company, and the warning signs to walk away from.

    Quick answer

    Short answer: Book through the official Nusuk Umrah platform, which lists Ministry of Hajj and Umrah approved service providers, or check that your local agent works with an approved provider before you pay. Get every service in writing, pay through traceable methods, keep copies of your visa and bookings, and walk away from anyone offering unusually cheap visas or rushing you to pay in cash.

    What the official platform offers

    Nusuk Umrah in brief

    • Official platform: Nusuk Umrah is overseen by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Nusuk Umrah).
    • Approved providers only: Nusuk says all providers on the platform are officially licensed and approved by the Ministry.
    • List of providers: the platform publishes a list of approved service providers you can check.
    • Comprehensive packages: can include visa, flights, hotels in Makkah and Madinah, meals, intercity transport and guidance.

    Nusuk describes the platform as covering everything “from visa issuance to package booking without the need for external agents”. Depending on your nationality, individual Umrah packages may or may not yet be open to you; the platform says it makes packages available according to the Ministry’s rules for each country.

    There are also packages without a visa, for GCC citizens, residents and holders of other visa types, covering accommodation, transport and meals.

    If you use a local travel agent

    Many pilgrims still book through an agent in their home country, often a trusted family name. That can work well. The key is to check that the agent is working with a Ministry-approved provider, and that what you are paying for is real. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah also offers a free online service to verify the data and licence status of Saudi Umrah companies and establishments (Ministry of Hajj and Umrah).

    Questions to ask any Umrah company

    • Which Ministry-approved Saudi provider are you working with?
    • Can I see that provider on the Nusuk Umrah list?
    • Which exact hotels in Makkah and Madinah, and for which nights?
    • Is transport between the cities and from the airport included?
    • Is the Umrah visa included, and when will I receive it?
    • What happens if a flight is cancelled or the visa is delayed?
    • What is the refund policy, in writing?

    Warning signs to walk away from

    Usually trustworthyRed flag
    Written itinerary with named hotels“Good hotel near the Haram”, no name
    Payment by bank transfer or card with receiptsCash only, or a personal account
    A provider you can find on Nusuk“We have special connections for visas”
    Visa issued well before travelVisa promised “at the airport” or the night before
    Clear refund termsNo written terms, or pressure to pay today
    Trustworthy vs red flag

    New York City’s consumer protection department gives similar advice: if a package price seems too good to be true, it is likely a scam, and paying by credit card rather than cash, wire transfer or apps without purchase protection may give you more rights if services aren’t provided (NYC DCWP).

    Warning

    Never hand over your passport to someone you can’t verify, and never pay for a “visa only” offer from a social media page. Fake visas can mean being refused boarding, losing your money, or worse.

    Before you fly: protect yourself

    Five steps once you’ve booked

    1

    Check your visa against your passport and the travel dates. The U.S. Mission advises reading visa dates carefully, as Saudi Arabia uses the Hijri calendar for official purposes.

    2

    Save copies of your passport, visa and bookings on your phone and in print.

    3

    Confirm hotel bookings directly a few days before travel.

    4

    Save the Ministry’s support details: the contact options for the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah are on its Contact us page.

    5

    Share your itinerary with a family member at home.

    If something goes wrong

    If your agent stops answering or a service doesn’t appear, stay calm and contact the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah through the support options on its Contact us page. In an emergency, ask the nearest police officer or security staff for help. Keep every receipt and message; you may need them for a complaint at home.

    Overstaying your visa because of a travel problem is not a safe option. Consular guidance warns that overstays can lead to heavy fines, detention or bans on future visits (U.S. Mission Saudi Arabia).

    Note

    Once you’re in the Kingdom and need a permit for the Umrah rites themselves, see our guide to booking your Umrah permit on Nusuk.

    FAQ

    Do I have to book through Nusuk Umrah?

    Nusuk Umrah is the official platform with Ministry-approved providers, so it’s the safest place to start. Agents can still be used if they work with an approved provider; check before you pay.

    Is a very cheap package always a scam?

    Not always, but very low prices often mean distant hotels, missing transport or hidden extras. Ask for everything in writing.

    Can women book Umrah without a male guardian?

    According to the U.S. Mission’s guidance, women can register for and perform Umrah without a male guardian. Check the current rules for your nationality on Nusuk.

    Who do I contact if my group leader disappears?

    The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah offers support to pilgrims; its contact options are on the Contact us page.

    This article is practical travel guidance only and is not legal advice or a religious ruling. Last checked 14 October 2026 against the Nusuk Umrah platform, the U.S. Mission Saudi Arabia pilgrim page and NYC DCWP guidance. Rules and services change; follow Nusuk and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

    Related

    Sources

  • Umrah in Ramadan: Crowds, Nusuk Booking and Practical Logistics

    Umrah in Ramadan: Crowds, Nusuk Booking and Practical Logistics

    Ramadan is the busiest Umrah season of the year. Hotels fill, permit slots go quickly and the Grand Mosque is at its fullest in the evenings and nights. The trip is still very manageable if you plan the logistics early and keep your days simple. This guide covers the practical side: the Nusuk permit, timing your Umrah around fasting and prayers, the crowds, and the help available on site. It does not cover how to perform the rites; for that, ask a qualified scholar and see our step-by-step overview.

    Quick answer

    Short answer: Book your Umrah permit on Nusuk as soon as your dates and hotel are fixed; the National Platform lists the service as free (my.gov.sa). Choose a time slot that leaves room around iftar and the night prayers, keep your group small and together, and use the guest care centres at Masjid al-Haram if you need guidance, luggage storage or lost-and-found help (SPA).

    At a glance

    • Permit: Umrah permits are issued on Nusuk; free according to the National Platform.
    • Prayer times: Nusuk’s Prayer Times service shows the day’s times by location, with alerts (my.gov.sa).
    • Ramadan operations: for Ramadan 1447 the authorities ran an integrated operational plan at both Holy Mosques, including crowd sensors, 3D maps and door numbering (Saudi Gazette).
    • Dates: Ramadan dates and season rules are announced each year; check official channels before you book.

    Book the permit early

    The Umrah permit is the one booking you cannot skip. The National Platform describes the steps in the Nusuk app: open the Umrah section, choose Issue Umrah Permit, pick an available date and time, and issue the permit (my.gov.sa). In Ramadan, popular slots go quickly, so book as soon as your travel dates are fixed. Our guide to booking an Umrah permit on Nusuk walks through each screen.

    Warning

    Use only the official Nusuk app and website. Never pay a stranger who offers to “find” a permit slot, and never share your login codes.

    Choosing your time slot

    When you pick a slot, think about your fast, your energy and the prayers rather than just the earliest time available.

    Time of dayWhat to expectConsider if
    Late morningYou are fasting; the heat can be tiringYou rest well and the weather is mild
    AfternoonLong wait until iftar; tiredness buildsYou are travelling with fit adults only
    After iftarVery busy as people arrive for the night prayersYou can manage crowds and late nights
    Late nightLarge crowds in the last part of the monthYou have slept in the afternoon
    Choosing a slot in Ramadan

    Check the day’s Maghrib and Isha times in Nusuk before you book, so your slot does not collide with the moment the crowd is at its largest (National Platform).

    Handling the crowds

    The authorities’ Ramadan 1447 plan described organised prayer areas, corridors and courtyards, improved signage and pedestrian flow, smart visitor-counting sensors, interactive 3D maps, a door-numbering system in the Grand Mosque, transport services for the elderly from key transit stations, and expanded luggage storage (Saudi Gazette). Arrangements are set each season, but the habits that help are always the same.

    Crowd habits that help

    • Agree one meeting point with your group, using a door number
    • Move with the flow and follow staff when they close a full area
    • Keep children and older relatives on the inside of your group
    • Carry water for after iftar, and a small bag only
    • Charge your phone before you leave the hotel

    If a family member gets separated, go to your meeting point and ask staff at once. Our guide to finding your way in Masjid al-Haram has more on meeting points.

    Food, sleep and rest

    Fasting, heat and late nights add up. Plan a short rest in the afternoon, eat a proper meal after iftar before heading back to the mosque, and keep suhoor simple. If you or a relative feel unwell, stop and ask staff for help; for an emergency, ask the nearest staff or security officer for help. Our guide to staying healthy in heat and crowds has practical tips.

    A simple Ramadan Umrah day

    1

    Morning: sleep after suhoor and Fajr; keep the morning quiet.

    2

    Afternoon: rest, check your permit time and pack your small bag.

    3

    Before Maghrib: break your fast where you are comfortable; leave time to reach the mosque.

    4

    Your Umrah slot: go at your booked time with your group and meeting point agreed.

    5

    Afterwards: rest before the next day; do not plan a second Umrah slot on the same night.

    Help on site

    At Masjid al-Haram, the guest care centres offer guidance, luggage storage and lost-and-found help, with a QR code for an interactive map of services (SPA). Staff and security are always the first people to ask.

    Religious questions

    This guide covers logistics only. Questions about fasting while travelling, the rites of Umrah or anything else about worship belong with a qualified scholar.

    FAQ

    Do I need a Nusuk permit for Umrah in Ramadan?

    Yes. Umrah permits are issued on Nusuk. The National Platform lists the service as free. Book as soon as your dates are fixed.

    When is the Grand Mosque busiest in Ramadan?

    Generally in the evenings and nights, especially around iftar, the night prayers and the last part of the month.

    What is the best time slot for Umrah in Ramadan?

    It depends on your health and group. Many people prefer a slot that avoids the hours around Maghrib and Isha; check the day’s times in Nusuk before you book.

    Where can I find Ramadan dates and rules?

    Ramadan dates and season arrangements are announced each year. Check official channels such as Nusuk and the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah before you book travel.

    This article is practical guidance only and is not a religious ruling. Last checked 14 October 2026 against the National Platform, SPA and Saudi Gazette’s report of the Ramadan 1447 operational plan. Arrangements change each season; follow official channels.

    Related

    Sources

  • Staying Calm on Your First Umrah: Handling Nerves, Crowds, and Overwhelm

    Staying Calm on Your First Umrah: Handling Nerves, Crowds, and Overwhelm

    Many first-time pilgrims expect to feel peaceful the moment they see the Kaaba. Many do. But plenty of people also feel something they didn’t expect: nerves, tears, worry about doing a step wrong, or a tight chest in the middle of a crowd. None of this means your Umrah is going badly. It’s a normal human reaction to a huge moment, a long journey, and very little sleep.

    This guide covers simple, practical ways to stay steady so you can be present for the worship itself.

    Why first-timers feel overwhelmed

    A few things usually come together at once:

    • Tiredness. Long flights, time-zone changes, and late nights add up fast.
    • Fear of mistakes. Many people worry they’ll get a step wrong and spoil their Umrah.
    • Crowds and noise. Tawaf and Sa’i can be very busy, especially at peak times.
    • Heat. Being warm and dehydrated makes anyone more anxious and short-tempered.
    • Big emotions. Years of hoping to come here can arrive all at once.

    Knowing these in advance helps. When you feel shaky, you can tell yourself, “This is tiredness and a big moment, not a sign that something is wrong.”

    Before you begin: set yourself up well

    Rest first if you can. If your group allows it, sleep a few hours after arriving before starting your Umrah. A rested mind handles crowds far better.

    Eat and drink. Have a light meal and drink water before you go. Hunger and thirst quietly raise anxiety.

    Learn the steps in plain words. Read through the steps once or twice before you travel, and again the night before. Keep a small card or phone note with the order of the steps. You don’t need to memorise everything; you just need to know what comes next.

    Agree on a meeting point. Before entering the Haram, agree with your family or group exactly where to meet if you get separated. This one plan removes a big source of worry.

    During Tawaf and Sa’i: staying steady in the crowd

    Choose your distance from the Kaaba. Walking closer means more pushing. Walking further out is longer but usually calmer. Pick the space that lets you focus on your dua rather than on your elbows.

    Slow your breathing. If you feel your chest tighten, breathe in gently through your nose for about four counts and out through your mouth for about six. Repeat a few times while you keep walking. A longer out-breath tells your body it is safe.

    Use dhikr as an anchor. Repeating a short, familiar phrase of remembrance gives your mind one simple thing to hold onto when everything around you is loud.

    Lose count? Don’t panic. Many people lose track of their rounds. Ask the scholar or guide with your group how they advise you to handle a doubt about the count, since scholars differ in the details, and follow that guidance calmly.

    It’s fine to step aside. If you feel dizzy or panicky, move gently toward the edge of the crowd, sit if you can, drink some water, and continue when you’re ready. Resting is not failing.

    When tears or strong emotions come

    Crying at the Kaaba is very common. Let it come. You don’t need to explain it to anyone. If emotions feel too heavy, sit somewhere quieter for a few minutes, make a simple dua in your own language, and breathe slowly. Allah hears every language and every unspoken worry.

    Looking after the people with you

    If you’re with parents, children, or a spouse, check on them often with a simple question: “Do you need water or a rest?” People who are struggling often won’t say so first. Agree on a small signal, like a hand on the shoulder, that means “I need to stop for a moment.”

    When to get help

    Most nerves pass with rest, water, and a slower pace. But please seek help from Haram staff, medical points, or your group leader if someone has chest pain, trouble breathing, confusion, fainting, or feels very unwell. Don’t push through those signs.

    After your Umrah

    Once you’re done, give yourself time to rest. Some people feel a lift; others feel flat and tired. Both are normal. Write a few lines about what you felt and the duas you made, so you can return to them later.

    A gentle reminder

    Your Umrah is not a test of perfect performance. It is a journey toward Allah, made by a tired, hopeful human being. Go slowly, ask your group’s scholar when you’re unsure, and let yourself be present. A calm heart is part of the worship too.

  • Lost Your Phone, Bag or Passport at the Haram? What to Do

    Lost Your Phone, Bag or Passport at the Haram? What to Do

    Losing something in Masjid al-Haram or the Prophet’s Mosque is common. The crowds are huge, you put things down to pray, and many pilgrims carry their whole day in one small bag. This guide is about things: phones, bags, wallets, shoes and travel documents. If a person in your group is missing, see our guides on finding your way in Masjid al-Haram, bringing children on Umrah and caring for elderly family, and go to mosque staff straight away.

    Quick answer

    Short answer: At Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, go to one of the guest care centres run by the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques. According to the Saudi Press Agency, these centres offer guidance, luggage storage and lost-and-found assistance (SPA, 5 October 2026). At the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, ask the nearest staff member or security officer where lost property is handled. For a lost passport, contact the police and your embassy.

    At a glance

    • Masjid al-Haram: guest care centres with guidance, luggage storage and lost-and-found assistance (SPA).
    • Opening: SPA’s report is headlined “Care Centers Provide Round-the-Clock Services to Visitors of Grand Mosque”.
    • Finding your way: the centres give visitors a QR code for an interactive map of sites and services inside the Grand Mosque (SPA).
    • Prophet’s Mosque: ask mosque staff or security; we could not reach an official page describing its lost-property service.
    • Emergency contacts: the official list is on the National Platform; police and security staff are also on site.

    First ten minutes: what to do

    Most items turn up within a short distance of where they were dropped. The first minutes count more than anything else, because the crowd moves on and cleaners and staff collect what is left.

    If you notice something is missing

    1

    Stop and retrace: go back calmly to the last place you remember having it, such as your prayer spot, the shoe rack or the entrance you used.

    2

    Ask the nearest staff member: mosque staff and security deal with lost property every day. Show them a photo of the item on a friend’s phone if you can.

    3

    Go to a care centre (Makkah) or ask staff (Madinah): at Masjid al-Haram, use the QR interactive map to find services; describe the item, where and roughly when you lost it.

    4

    Call your own phone: if a phone is lost, call it from a group member’s phone. Someone may answer, or staff may already hold it.

    5

    Lock it remotely: if a phone is not found quickly, use your phone maker’s “find my device” service to lock it and protect your banking and Nusuk logins.

    Phones and bags

    A phone is now the single most important thing a pilgrim carries. It holds your Nusuk permit, your hotel booking, your bank cards and your group chat. Losing it is stressful, but the steps are practical.

    • Report it at a guest care centre in Masjid al-Haram, or to staff at the Prophet’s Mosque, with a clear description: make, colour, case, and the lock-screen picture.
    • Change key passwords from a trusted device if you think someone could open it, starting with email and banking.
    • Re-open your Nusuk account on a group member’s phone or a new device if you need to show a permit. See our guide to booking an Umrah permit on Nusuk.
    • Bags: describe the outside and two or three things inside. A distinctive tag or ribbon helps staff match it fast.

    Passports and travel documents

    Documents follow a different route from phones and bags. Check first whether your passport was handed in, at a guest care centre in Masjid al-Haram or with staff at the Prophet’s Mosque. If it is not found, the official route runs through the Saudi authorities and your own country’s embassy or consulate, not the mosque.

    Report the loss to the police (the emergency contacts are on the National Platform list) and contact your embassy or consulate as early as you can, because a replacement or emergency travel document can take time and you cannot fly home without one. If you came with an Umrah company, tell your group leader at once. Keep the photo or copy of your passport ready, as it speeds up every step.

    Phone, bag, walletPassport or visa document
    First stopNearest staff member; in Makkah, a guest care centreCare centre or staff, in case it was handed in
    Official reportLost-and-found (Makkah care centres) or mosque staff (Madinah)Police report
    Also contactYour bank, if cards are insideYour embassy or consulate
    Before travel homeRecovered or replacedReplacement or emergency document needed
    Phone or bag vs passport

    Warning

    Never pay someone who says they can “find” your item or speed up a document for a fee. Use only mosque staff, the official care centres, the police and your embassy. For police help or an emergency, use the contacts listed on the National Platform.

    Prepare before you go

    Five-minute preparation

    • Photograph your passport, visa and hotel booking, and store copies in two places
    • Carry only what you need into the mosque; leave spare cash and valuables locked in the hotel
    • Put a name and phone-number tag inside your bag
    • Turn on “find my device” and a lock-screen message with an alternative contact number
    • Agree with your group where you will meet if a phone goes missing

    Religious questions

    This guide is practical only. If losing an item during worship raises a religious question for you, ask a qualified scholar.

    FAQ

    Is there a lost-and-found service at the Grand Mosque in Makkah?

    Yes. According to SPA, the guest care centres at Masjid al-Haram offer lost-and-found assistance, along with guidance and luggage storage.

    What about the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah?

    Ask the nearest staff member or security officer. We could not reach an official page describing its lost-property arrangements, so follow what staff tell you on the day.

    What should I do if I lose my passport in Makkah or Madinah?

    Check whether it was handed in. If not, report it to the police and contact your embassy or consulate for a replacement or emergency travel document. Tell your group leader too.

    How do I reach emergency services?

    Use the emergency contacts listed on the National Platform, or ask the nearest police officer or security staff.

    This article is practical guidance only and is not a religious ruling or legal advice. Last checked 13 October 2026 against the Saudi Press Agency (5 October 2026) and the National Platform. Services and procedures change; follow official staff and channels on the day.

    Related

    Sources

  • Simple Duas and Dhikr for Pilgrims

    Simple Duas and Dhikr for Pilgrims

    Many first-time pilgrims worry that they do not know enough duas. Some carry thick booklets and spend their tawaf reading from them without understanding the words. This guide offers a gentler approach: a small set of well-known dhikr and duas for pilgrims, and the reminder that you may always speak to Allah in your own words, in your own language.

    Quick answer

    Short answer: You do not need to memorise a book of duas. Keep a few well-known phrases of dhikr, learn the talbiyah from your group before you travel, and bring a short personal dua list. A sincere dua in your own words and your own language is always welcome.

    At a glance

    • Sincerity first: a simple, heartfelt dua is better than a long one read without attention.
    • Tawaf and sa’i: there is no single fixed dua you must say for each round or each length.
    • Talbiyah: said often from entering ihram for Umrah until tawaf begins; learn the full wording from your group.
    • Personal list: write your needs and the names of family before you travel.
    • Different practices: where schools differ, ask the scholar travelling with your group.

    The most important thing: sincerity

    Dua is a conversation with Allah. He knows every language and every heart. A simple, sincere request in your own words is better than a long dua read without attention. Pilgrims are free to mix well-known duas with their own personal requests.

    Simple dhikr you can say anywhere

    These short phrases are well known and can be said at any time: walking to the mosque, waiting for prayer, in tawaf, or resting in your room. The Prophet ﷺ said the dearest phrases to Allah are four: SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaha illallah and Allahu Akbar (Sahih Muslim 2137). Sending blessings on the Prophet is commanded in the Qur’an (33:56).

    PhraseMeaning
    SubhanAllahGlory be to Allah
    AlhamdulillahAll praise is for Allah
    Allahu AkbarAllah is the Greatest
    La ilaha illallahThere is no god but Allah
    AstaghfirullahI ask Allah for forgiveness
    Allahumma salli ala MuhammadSending blessings on the Prophet (peace be upon him)
    Keep your dhikr simple

    Tip

    Choose one or two phrases and repeat them quietly when you have a spare moment. Small and steady is better than a lot all at once.

    The talbiyah

    From the time you enter ihram for Umrah until you begin tawaf, men and women say the talbiyah often. Men are encouraged to raise their voices in it (Sunan Abi Dawud 1814); ask your group’s scholar about the recommended volume for women. The Prophet ﷺ stopped saying the talbiyah during Umrah when he touched the Black Stone (Jami’ at-Tirmidhi 919). It is well known and begins:

    Labbayk Allahumma labbayk (Here I am, O Allah, here I am).

    The full wording reported from the Prophet ﷺ is: Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk, innal-hamda wan-ni’mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika lak (Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am; You have no partner; here I am. All praise and blessing belong to You, and all sovereignty; You have no partner). See Sahih al-Bukhari 1549 and Sahih Muslim 1184.

    Learn the full wording from your group or a trusted guide before you travel, and practise it at home so it feels natural. Our guide to entering ihram covers the practical side of that moment.

    During tawaf

    There is no single fixed dua required for each round of tawaf. You may make dhikr, read Quran, or make your own dua. Scholars note that nothing was reported from the Prophet ﷺ assigning a particular dua to each round (see this fatwa citing Ibn ‘Uthaymeen); the reports concern the Black Stone corner and the stretch between the two corners, below.

    • When you pass the Black Stone corner, many pilgrims say Allahu Akbar and point towards it. This follows the report that each time the Prophet ﷺ came to the corner he pointed to it and said takbir (Sahih al-Bukhari 1613).
    • Between the Yemeni corner and the Black Stone, many pilgrims say the well-known Quranic dua (Qur’an 2:201): Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah, wa fil-akhirati hasanah, wa qina adhaban-nar (Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire). Abdullah ibn as-Sa’ib reported hearing the Prophet ﷺ say it between the two corners (Sunan Abi Dawud 1892, graded hasan; it is also in Musnad Ahmad). Scholars understand this to be the Yemeni corner and the Black Stone.

    If you lose count of your words, do not worry. Keep your heart present and keep your pace steady with the crowd. For the walking side of tawaf, see our tawaf tips for a crowded day.

    During sa’i

    On Safa and Marwah, pilgrims face the Kaaba and make dhikr and dua. In the account of the Prophet’s ﷺ Hajj, he went up Safa until he saw the House, faced the qiblah, declared Allah’s oneness, glorified Him and made dua, and as he drew near he recited Qur’an 2:158 (Sahih Muslim 1218). Between the hills, you may continue with dhikr, Quran, or your own dua. As with tawaf, there is no single dua you must say for each length. Ask your group for the dhikr they teach for the hills if you would like to learn it.

    Moments through the day

    Four everyday moments

    1

    Entering the mosque: the Prophet ﷺ taught us to say Allahumma iftah li abwaba rahmatik (O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy) (Sahih Muslim 713).

    2

    Leaving the mosque: the Prophet ﷺ taught us to say Allahumma inni as’aluka min fadlik (O Allah, I ask You of Your bounty) (same hadith, Sahih Muslim 713).

    3

    Drinking Zamzam: ask Allah for something you need, such as health, knowledge or forgiveness. The Prophet ﷺ said the water of Zamzam is for whatever it is drunk for (Sunan Ibn Majah 3062, graded hasan).

    4

    After prayer or tawaf: sit quietly for a few minutes and read slowly from your personal dua list.

    For more on Zamzam, see our guide to drinking Zamzam and taking it home.

    Make a personal dua list

    Before you travel, write a short list and keep it on a small card or in your phone notes. Read it slowly in quiet moments, such as after prayer or after tawaf, rather than trying to read it in the busiest crowd.

    Your own dua list

    • Your own needs: forgiveness, guidance, health, family, work, worries
    • Your family, by name
    • People who asked you to pray for them
    • The wider Muslim community and those who are suffering

    Things to avoid

    • Shouting duas loudly in a crowd in a way that disturbs others. Speak softly.
    • Following someone else’s loud dua without knowing what it means. It is fine to say Ameen, but understand what you are saying where you can.
    • Duas from unknown sources or forwarded messages that claim special rewards. Stay with the Quran and well-known, authentic duas.
    • Worrying about perfect pronunciation. Do your best. Allah knows your intention.

    Warning

    Do not stop in the middle of a moving tawaf or sa’i crowd to read from a booklet or phone. Step to the side, or keep walking and make dhikr from memory.

    Religious questions

    This page is practical guidance only, not a religious ruling. Wordings and practices can differ between schools of thought, so ask the scholar travelling with your group which duas and dhikr they recommend.

    Keep it with you after the trip

    The dhikr you build in Makkah and Madinah can stay with you for life. Choose one phrase and one dua from your trip and make them part of your day when you return home. Our guide to what to do after Umrah has more ideas.

    FAQ

    Do I have to say a specific dua in each round of tawaf?

    No single fixed dua is required for each round. Nothing was reported from the Prophet ﷺ assigning one, apart from takbir at the Black Stone corner and the dua between the two corners (see the tawaf section above). You may make dhikr, read Quran or make your own dua; ask your group’s scholar about the practice they follow.

    Can I make dua in my own language?

    Yes. Allah knows every language. Many pilgrims mix well-known Arabic duas with personal requests in their own words.

    Should I carry a dua book in tawaf?

    You can, but many pilgrims find a short card or a few memorised phrases easier in a crowd than reading from a long booklet.

    When should I learn the talbiyah?

    Before you travel. Learn the full wording from your group or a trusted guide and practise it at home.

    This article is practical guidance only and is not a religious ruling. Practical arrangements change; check the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Nusuk and the official Saudi visa site for current entry rules.

    Related

    Sources