Pilgrimage is a blissful experience for all Muslims. To make the most out of it, going to Umrah needs proper planning. Before leaving for this spiritual journey, there are certain things you should keep in mind. This article will be going to give you some pieces of advice to perform this beautiful journey. Following these tips will give you the complete pleasure of this sacred journey and make your experience memorable.
Important Thing to Do Before Leaving
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Make the hotel bookings in advance
During the season of Umrah, it gets hard to find a good hotel, so it is important to start your bookings in advance. You can get 5-star Umrah packages from some of the best travel companies and enjoy the luxuries they are offering. Do your full research on the hotels in cities, and it will give you an idea of the packages, room service and other facilities.
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Know everything about this religious journey
Before heading out to Umrah, it is important to learn about Makkah and Madina. Do your proper research on Umrah. There are many religious books where you can find important information about Umrah. These books will help you learn about what you are about to experience. If you know all the important things related to Umrah, it will help you experience the best.
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Know all the rules of Ihram
There are some rules that people can violate. For example, the rules of Ihram, such as, you cannot use scented soap, men cannot cover their head with Ihram even if it’s sunny. Another rule while wearing ihram is that you cannot expose yourself while you are wearing ihram. So, be careful when you wear it.
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Hair Hygiene
According to the rules of Umrah, it is customary for women and men to cut their hair. For men, it is mandatory to cut all the hair instead of just a snip of it, even if you don’t want to shave. When you are going to shave, make sure the barber uses a brand-new disposable blade for you. However, for women, the rule is to cut their hair at the Kaaba. To perform this act, women are required to go to their hotel room for cutting their hair. Women should also know that they are not allowed to expose their heads, even in hurry.
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Make Dua on your trip to Makkah and Madina
It is not a thing to remember because everyone is making prayers throughout the spiritual journey, but it is extremely important to perform. Dua is an act of worship in Islam, and Muhammad PBUH implies that Dua is the very essence of worship of Allah. While on your umrah trip, make sure to pray for yourself, your family, friends and all Ummah. Do not forget that you are in a spiritual state, so make sure to take full advantage of spirituality.
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Take enough clothes with you
While going on the Umrah trip, it is essential to take enough clothes that you have to change several times a day. The sweating due to hot weather and any kind of dirt will make you change more than two clothes in a day. To stay comfortable throughout your relaxing journey, you should take loose and comfortable clothes with you. Keep safety products with you just in case.
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Visit the sites in Makkah
To visit the sites in Madina, the ideal time is in the morning or the time between sunrise and dhuhr. You can visit sacred places such as the site of the battle of Uhud, Masjid Quba, and Rawdah. Don’t forget to pray for 2 rakats in masjid Quba and Rawdah. By doing so, you will reap the reward of your Umrah.
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Talk with people
There are people from all over the world, talk to them, ask them where they are from and make them friends. They all are different and unique. Meeting them will make you learn a lot from each other. It is the place of Muslims, gathered together, meet them and become enlightened.
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Contact with the people back at home
If you have a phone with you, download the apps for communicating with your friends and family. Some hotels have the facility of free wifi, and you can contact your family through several apps. You will not have to pay extra if you get free wifi.
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Prepare fully
Some preparations are needed to keep yourself safe from sudden troubles. Make a copy of your documents and email them to your closest friend or relative. You might need them in case of any emergency. Take safety products such as Vaseline, safety pins, and important stuff with you to stay safe.
Conclusion
Umrah is a journey for a short period to the sacred place. It is the dream of every Muslim to make the most out of it. Hopefully, these tips will help you experience the memorable Umrah of your life.
