Learn how to register for Hajj and Umrah, what are the requirements and steps involved, and what are some tips and resources to help you prepare for your journey. Read this article to find out more.
Hajj and Umrah are two types of pilgrimage that Muslims can perform in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Hajj is an annual religious pilgrimage that takes place in a specific time of the year, while Umrah can be done at any time of the year.
Both Hajj and Umrah require certain preparations and procedures that pilgrims should follow to ensure a smooth and safe journey. In this article, we will explain how to register for Hajj and Umrah, what are the requirements and steps involved, and what are some tips and resources to help you plan your trip.
What is Hajj and Umrah?
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, which means it is an obligatory duty for every Muslim who is physically and financially able to perform it once in their lifetime.
Hajj commemorates the trials and sacrifices of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family, and involves various rituals and stages that take place in Mecca and its surrounding areas.
Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage that can be done at any time of the year, except during the days of Hajj. Umrah consists of performing Tawaf (circumambulation) around the Kaaba (the cube-shaped building in the center of the Grand Mosque) seven times, and Sa'i (walking) between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times. Umrah can be done in a few hours or days, depending on the crowd and availability.
How to Register for Hajj and Umrah?
To perform Hajj or Umrah, you need to obtain a visa from the Saudi authorities. The visa process differs depending on whether you are applying for Hajj or Umrah, and whether you are applying individually or through a travel agent.
1. Hajj Visa
The Saudi government has announced a series of entry restrictions for Hajj due to COVID-19. In 2022, Hajj pilgrims must be under 65 years old and fully vaccinated against COVID-19. They must also present a negative PCR test taken 72 hours before departure for the Kingdom. Priority will be given to those who have not previously performed Hajj¹.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has developed an electronic portal through which pilgrims can register for Hajj. The portal also allows for electronic Hajj visa applications. Pilgrims who desire to perform Hajj can register directly at: https://hajj.nusuk.sa/¹ ².
For help with registration, please either contact the call center or email Motawif Care at care@motawif.com.sa. The call center phone number from the United States is 1-833-271-2112. Callers from Saudi Arabia should call 800-891-2027¹.
The portal features various package options, support services, and a multi-lingual communication center that is open around the clock. Please note that registration does not necessarily mean full approval to perform Hajj. You must register and then wait for confirmation of approval¹.
Alternatively, you can also apply for a Hajj visa through a licensed travel agent in your country. The travel agent will arrange your transportation, accommodation, and other services for you. You can find a list of approved Hajj travel agents on the Ministry of Hajj website².
2. Umrah Visa
The process for performing Umrah has changed significantly due to COVID-19, so all travelers should make sure to read through all requirements before booking travel. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah require certain mobile applications be downloaded and used to request the issuance of permits for scheduled times to enter holy sites¹.
If you choose to travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, you can apply for an Umrah visa through an online portal: https://eservices.haj.gov.sa/eservices3/pages/home.xhtml³. You will need to provide your personal information, passport details, vaccination status, travel itinerary, and insurance coverage. You will also need to pay a fee for the visa application.
Alternatively, you can also apply for an Umrah visa through a licensed travel agent in your country. The travel agent will arrange your transportation, accommodation, and other services for you. You can find a list of approved Umrah travel agents on the Ministry of Hajj website².
What are some tips and resources to help you plan your trip?
Planning ahead for Hajj and Umrah is essential. Here are some tips and resources to help you prepare for your journey:
- Review the CDC’s Level 1 Travel Health Notice for Hajj and CDC's recommendations for traveling to Saudi Arabia¹.
- Check the latest travel advisories and restrictions from the U.S. Department of State¹ and the Saudi Ministry of Interior¹.
- Pack light and bring only essential items such as clothing, toiletries, medication, prayer items, etc.
- Dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring copies of your passport, visa, vaccination certificate, insurance policy, etc.
- Download the required mobile applications such as Tawakkalna (for COVID-19 status), Eatmarna (for booking permits), Al-Maqsad (for navigation), etc.
- Learn about the rituals and stages of Hajj and Umrah before you go.
- Respect the rules and regulations of the holy sites.
- Be patient and courteous with other pilgrims.
- Seek help from official authorities if you face any problems or emergencies.
We hope this article has given you some useful information on how to register for Hajj and Umrah. We wish you a safe and blessed journey!
Source:
2. hajinformation.com
3. eservices.haj.gov.sa
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