Umrah: preparing your journey step by step

Umrah is best prepared a few weeks ahead. Here are the steps, in order.

1. Paperwork

• A passport valid for at least six months after your return date.
• The visa: our agency handles the application from your documents.
• The vaccines required by the Saudi authorities (meningitis) — check with your doctor.

2. Choosing your package

Three things really matter:

1. Walking distance from the hotel to the Haram, in Makkah and in Madinah.
2. The number of nights in each city.
3. The room type (double, triple, quad).

Travelling with elderly relatives? Choose a hotel within 300 metres of the Haram.

3. The rites

1. Ihram at the miqat, with the intention.
2. Tawaf: seven circuits around the Kaaba.
3. Sa'i between Safa and Marwa.
4. Shaving or trimming the hair.

4. What to pack

• Ihram garments and comfortable sandals.
• A small bag for your shoes.
• Your usual medicines and a prescription.

See our Umrah departures: each package lists the hotels, remaining seats and the day-by-day programme.