Preparation
1. Documentation:
- Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at
least six months from the date of travel.
- Visa: Apply for an Umrah visa through the Saudi Arabian embassy or
consulate in the USA. Some packages include visa assistance.
- Vaccination Certificates: Proof of vaccination against meningitis
and COVID-19 is often required.
2. Health and
Vaccination:
- Consult a travel health specialist for any
additional vaccinations and medications.
- Carry a first-aid kit with essential
medicines.
3. Travel
Insurance:
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance
that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
4. Packing:
- Pack modest clothing suitable for Umrah,
including ihram garments.
- Bring a travel pillow, toiletries, and any
personal items you might need.
5. Financial
Arrangements:
- Inform your bank about your travel plans
to avoid any issues with your credit or debit cards.
- Carry some Saudi Riyals for initial
expenses.
The Journey
1. Departure from
the USA:
- Most Umrah packages from the USA involve
flying from major cities like New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles.
- Direct flights to Jeddah or Medina are
available from some cities, but many travelers may need to connect through
a hub in the Middle East, such as Dubai or Doha.
2. Arrival in Saudi
Arabia:
- Upon arrival at King Abdulaziz
International Airport in Jeddah or Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport
in Medina, you will be greeted by your tour guide or travel agent.
- Transfer to your hotel, which is usually
pre-booked as part of the package.
3. Travel to
Medina:
- If your package includes a visit to
Medina, you will travel by bus or car to Medina.
- Check into your hotel near Masjid
al-Nabawi, where you can perform prayers and visit the Prophet's Mosque.
4. Travel to Mecca:
- After spending a few days in Medina, you
will travel to Mecca.
- Upon arrival, check into your hotel, which
is typically located close to Masjid al-Haram.
Reaching Masjidil
Haram
1. Ihram:
- Before entering the sacred area of Mecca,
you must don the ihram, which consists of two pieces of unstitched white
cloth for men and modest clothing for women.
- Perform the miqat (entering the state of
ihram) at one of the designated miqat stations.
2. Tawaf:
- Once in Mecca, head to Masjid al-Haram.
- Perform the tawaf, which involves circling
the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction.
3. Sa'i:
- After tawaf, perform the sa'i, walking
between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times.
4. Staying in
Mecca:
- Spend several days in Mecca, performing
prayers and engaging in spiritual reflection.
- Some packages include additional
activities such as visiting the nearby hills of Arafat and Mina.
Returning Home
1. Final
Preparations:
- Ensure you have all your belongings and
necessary documents.
- Perform a final tawaf before leaving
Mecca.
2. Departure:
- Travel back to Jeddah and catch your
return flight to the USA.
- Upon arrival in the USA, share your
spiritual journey with family and friends.
Choosing the best
Umrah package from the USA involves careful planning and preparation. By
following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling
journey. Whether you are traveling alone or with a group, the experience of
reaching Masjidil Haram and performing the sacred rites of Umrah is truly
transformative.
