Are you going to perform Umrah? If you are planning or going to perform Umrah for the first time, then you are in the right place. In this article, we will go through some tips and guidelines to perform Umrah for the first time.
Umrah is a minor pilgrimage (Muslims considered) or a short version of Hajj that every Muslim wants to perform. It can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Muslims, so they should achieve this with full passion and spirituality.
So, let’s not waste any more time and talk about some valuable tips for people who have never done Umrah before:
Start by learning about Umrah:
Muslims face difficulties while performing Umrah and its rituals. First-timers of Umrah mainly face this issue. To avoid this situation, you should prepare yourself so that you will not meet any problems. Learn about the Umrah in various ways, such as by reading books, visiting websites, and watching videos that stream the Umrah.
To travel to Umrah, you need a visa:
If you travel from any other country, you must have a valid visa to travel to Umrah. Pilgrims typically use Umrah and tourist visas from any reputable travel agency to travel to Saudi Arabia. But Saudi Ministry used to change the visa issuance policies day by day. You can take advantage of e-visa, which is now very easy, accessible, and famous, especially for residents of Western countries.
When going to Umrah, take light clothes:
Umrah for the first time can’t be easy. Always pack your luggage according to your days of stay and fill the Umrah essentials. Weather consideration is the most important, so you must pack according to the weather. Usually, the temperature in the holy cities did not get too cold throughout the year.
When you get to Mecca, put on Ihram first:
You must wear Ihram for the first ritual to perform Umrah in Masjid al-Haram, located in Mecca. Ihram is a specific attire (typically white) for men and women (Abaya). One must wear Ihram to perform the remaining three rituals of Umrah. Once you complete the rituals, you can take off your Ihram attire. Now you can also do everyday daily life work.
Performing Tawaf:
Tawaf is the second ritual of pilgrimage. It’s related to walking/running around the Holy Kaaba. A more honourable thing to do during Umrah is Tawaf. Muslims consider it a blessing to kiss or touch the Holy Kaaba. You can make Duas and other supplications while performing Tawaf.
Performing Sa’i:
The third obligatory step of performing Umrah is Sa’i. Sa’i includes walking or running between the hills of Safa and Marwah. This ritual honours Hajira (A.S), the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) and the mother of Prophet Ismail (A.S).
Have your hair properly shaved or trimmed:
This will be your last ritual of Umrah. It’s related to cutting or shaving the hair. Shaving is usually associated with men, and trimming the hair relates to women. Once you have made your pilgrimage, it will become necessary as this will mark your pilgrimage to completion.
Make Duas and supplications for your loved ones:
Umrah is incomplete without making Duas and supplications to God. A pilgrimage is a golden opportunity to make yourself closer to Allah (SWT). Try to make more Duas for yourself and your loved ones as much as possible. Take a Duas list or buy it from Mecca or Medina market to have more spirituality.
Proceed to the Prophet’s Mosque:
Prophet’s Mosque is very famous and well known during the pilgrimage. Most of the pilgrims spend their remaining holidays after performing a pilgrimage to the city of Medina. Many Muslims spend their time at Masjid An-Nabwi, praying, asking for, and doing other religious activities.
Relax and enjoy the experience:
Umrah can be a rewarding and memorable experience for you. So, try to make the most of your pilgrimage. Take moments as cherished ones and enjoy them. Try to have some fun with your family members to keep them happy. Make happiness and help others. One more thing: keep yourself hydrated when visiting some Ziyarats or any point. Mecca is a very hilly area, and the temperature is moderate there.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Umrah, for the first time, can be difficult, and you may face some hesitating situations there. All you need to know is to plan appropriately and well in advance to avoid any hassles at the last minute. Make sure you book your Umrah package and flights at the same time. May you have a good Umrah journey!
