Umrah for Beginners: A Guide for First-Timers

Are you going to perform Umrah for the first time? Umrah, for the first time, can be hesitating and complex, but honestly, it doesn’t look to be. Performing a pilgrimage to Mecca is the desire of every Muslim because it will give you memories, spiritual experiences, and good feelings.

If you are a beginner going for Umrah for the first time, take this article as a blessing. This article will review tips, planning, and Umrah essentials to make your journey memorable. So, read the whole article from the start till the end to make your concepts clear.

Tips for Umrah for the First-Timers

Umrah for the first timers is not easy as there are many things that you have to take care of. The tricky part is not that you can afford the Umrah Trip, but the point is you are leaving one country and departing for another. For that, you should be mentally and physically prepared.

Prepare yourself physically for Umrah:

Umrah is the act that demands physical fitness. You must perform energetic rituals like Tawaf and Sa’i, so physical fitness is the key to a successful Umrah. Build up your stamina and start preparing yourself physically from every aspect. But there is relaxation for older people because they can perform Umrah using a wheelchair due to lack of energy.

More than preparation in advance is required, as you must also take care of your health while performing Umrah. It would be best to remember that the temperature in Mecca and Medina mostly remains hot. So, drink water to avoid dehydration. Also, eat healthy food that gets you rid of fists and falls.

Essentials to bring to Umrah:

To make your trip perfect, don’t forget to bring Umrah essentials for a comfortable stay. It includes your everyday self-care items, clothing, travel products, etc. Do you know what the Umrah essentials that you should carry?

Just look at the list below:

• Necessary travel documents
• Loose and comfortable-fitting clothing
• Abaya for Women
• Undergarments
• Umbrella
• Money belt/credit/debit card
• Comfortable shoes
• Prayer essentials
• Type G plug
• Travel adapter
• Medication and first-aid kit
• Other necessary items according to your need

Get yourself familiar with Umrah rules:

Your primary focus on the trip is Umrah. You must know all about Umrah and its rules and regulations set by Islamic traditions. Take some time from your busy schedule and learn about Umrah rituals. There are four Umrah rituals:

1. Ihram
2. Tawaf
3. Sa’i
4. Halq/Taqsir

You can learn about pilgrimage from many sources, such as online platforms, reading books, taking guidance from scholars, etc. Most of the Umrah restrictions are in the state of Ihram. In the Ihram attire, you can’t perform actions like nail cutting, using perfume, hunting/killing animals, etc.

Dress according to the weather:

Mecca and Medina are located in Saudi Arabia, and the weather here always becomes hot. Sometimes, during the winter months, the climate becomes dry and not at all. During summer, the temperature lies between 28 to 45°C (May to Oct) and in winter temperature lies 17 to 33°C (December to February). So, dress according to the weather. Shops in Mecca offer two types of Ihram: warm and light, based on weather and month for performing Umrah.

Be ready for the slight language barrier:

Don’t forget that you are going to another country, Saudi Arabia and its Arabic-speaking country. When you go to markets in Mecca and Medina, you will see Arabic shopkeepers speak Arabic with you. Sometimes, you may also notice what different people say in their language. You don’t need to worry here. Just remember some Arabic phrases where you need to talk.

Try some Arabic Cuisine:

In Saudi Arabia, you may see different cuisines and dishes around your environment. Arabic coffee is one of the famous drinks served with sweet words and a delicious taste. You will feel a slight currency exchange when buying in Saudi Arabia. Don’t be surprised and take things accordingly. Don’t forget to try Kabsa, Handi, Shawarma, etc.

Umrah for the first timers can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And you don’t want to make this experience terrible. Follow the tips discussed in this article for a memorable journey. For better recommendations, consult with your family members, friends, or relatives who have made the Umrah before. They will guide you most efficiently, from money-saving to travelling tips.