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Plan Your Trip to Mecca: Best of Mecca Tourism

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The prophet Mohammed's birthplace is Islam's spiritual center and is strictly off-limits to non-Muslims. The pillars of Islam state that all Muslims with the means must undertake Hajj, a pilgrimage to Mecca, once in their lifetime. Those who visit the holy city are rewarded not just by proximity to landmarks and religious sites crucial to the religion, such as the Masjid Al Haram (Holy Mosque), the Mountain of Light, the Black Stone and the Well of Zamzam, but with the forgiveness of all their sins.

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Mecca travel advice

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These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travellers ask in the forums.

Requirements for Performing Umrah

According to forum posts, to perform Umrah, travelers are generally required to be in a state of Ihram, which involves wearing specific garments and making an intention for Umrah before arriving in Makkah. The Nusuk app is frequently mentioned for managing Umrah visits, but some users have noted that it is not strictly necessary for performing Umrah as you can directly go to the holy site and perform the rituals.

Performing the Rituals

The main rituals for performing Umrah as discussed by travelers include entering the state of Ihram, performing Tawaf (circumambulating the Kaaba), Sai (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah), and shaving or cutting the hair. These steps are sequentially important and are typically completed in order without a guide, although some first-timers prefer having one.

Advice and Resources

Some travelers emphasized the usefulness of online resources and books that guide the pilgrims through the process of Umrah. Videos and written guides are available that explain each step in detail, which many find adequate for preparing for Umrah without the need for a physical guide.

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Recommendations from Travelers

According to forum posts, some travelers recommended Al Bait as a well-known provider out of the UK. For US-based travelers, Adam Travel was mentioned for its involvement and support in Hajj 2024, although it primarily offers guidance rather than direct package sales.

User Experiences

Travelers have called out the importance of selecting agencies that are reliable and have a good track record. It was mentioned that all Hajj packages are now available through the Nusuk app, with several service providers listed. The discussion highlighted that while many new agencies appear each year, it's best to choose those with established reputations or personal recommendations from known contacts.

Agency Validation

For many users, checking the official approval and reviews of Hajj agents is crucial. Agencies like Dome Tours, Al Hidaayah Travel, Flight Express, and Hijaz Travel were recommended in various posts for their reputable services. It's advised to ensure that any chosen agency is officially authorized and provides a transparent pricing structure to avoid scams.

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Umrah Visa Requirements

According to forum posts, obtaining an Umrah visa requires applicants to be fully vaccinated with approved COVID-19 vaccines. These include Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, and Johnson & Johnson. Additionally, as of March 2022, all Umrah visa applicants must complete a fingerprint registration via a specific app before obtaining their visa. This measure ensures that the fingerprints are pre-registered and verified again upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.

Fingerprint Registration Process

Travelers have noted that the fingerprint registration must be done through an app available for both Android and iOS platforms. This registration is mandatory for all Umrah visa applicants and must be completed before visa issuance. The app requires applicants to upload their fingerprints and a photograph. Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, the fingerprints are verified, and once the pilgrim is cleared by immigration, the data is erased from Saudi databases. This requirement is currently in force in several countries, including Bangladesh, Kuwait, Tunisia, and the UK, with plans to expand globally.

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Changing Ihram Locations

According to forum posts, travelers have several options for donning Ihram during air travel. Some travelers choose to wear Ihram from their departure airport, ensuring they are in a state of Ihram before boarding. Others find it more practical to change into Ihram mid-flight, especially before the plane reaches the Miqat (the designated point where pilgrims must declare their intention to perform Umrah or Hajj).

Onboard and Airport Facilities

For many users, changing into Ihram on the airplane is common, despite the limited space. Airlines like Saudi Airlines typically announce the approach to Miqat, allowing passengers to prepare in advance. Additionally, airports such as Doha and Amman offer dedicated prayer rooms where travelers can change into Ihram and perform ablutions comfortably.

Ihram Readiness

Travelers have called out the importance of being in a state of Ihram before landing at Jeddah if the final destination is Mecca, as the Miqat is crossed before reaching Jeddah. This preparation ensures compliance with religious requirements upon arrival.

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Booking Convenience

According to forum posts, the Nusuk app simplifies the process of booking slots for performing Umrah by allowing users to select time slots and manage appointments. This is particularly useful as it helps in organizing the pilgrimage according to the travelers' schedule, ensuring a smoother experience.

Access to Restricted Areas

Some travelers mentioned that the Nusuk app is essential for gaining access to specific restricted areas such as the Noble Rawdah. The app facilitates the booking of these highly sought-after slots, which might otherwise be difficult to secure.

Regulatory Compliance

The app also helps users comply with local regulations. As indicated in some posts, the app is used to book permits for Umrah, which might be required depending on the current rules at the time of the visit. This feature helps ensure that pilgrims meet all legal requirements for their pilgrimage.

Overall Management

Travelers have called out that the app is helpful for managing visits during busy periods, such as Hajj season, by providing updates on available slots and necessary bookings. This aids in better planning and crowd management, enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience.

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Private Transport Recommendations

Some travelers have recommended using Umrah Taxi for private transport from Jeddah to Mecca, noting their competitive prices and reliable drivers. Contact can be made via WhatsApp at +966 54 220 4135.

Public Transport Insights

According to forum posts, public transportation like regular buses does not operate extensively between Jeddah and Mecca. Taxis are readily available and are deemed the most reliable form of transportation between these cities.

Train and Taxi Options

For those arriving at odd hours, trains are not a feasible option as they do not run frequently and the first train departs at 10 am. In such cases, taxis are the only available option, and it is advised to negotiate the fare, especially during nighttime.

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Top Recommended Hotels

Some travelers have recommended the Fairmont Makkah and Dar Al Tawhid as top choices for hotels with excellent views of the Kaaba. These hotels are praised for their unblocked views and proximity to the Kaaba, ensuring a spiritually enriching experience.

Views and Accessibility

For many users, the Pullman Zamzam Makkah and Swissotel Makkah are also notable mentions due to their views of the Kaaba. These hotels offer both partial and full Haram views, which can significantly enhance the pilgrimage experience. Additionally, the Clock Tower hotels, including the Makkah Tower Fairmont and Swissotel, are highlighted for their convenience and easy access to the Haram.

Considerations for Families

According to forum posts, the Hilton Suites and Conrad Makkah are recommended for families looking for spacious accommodations and proximity to the Kaaba. These hotels provide a comfortable stay with options for larger rooms and suites, accommodating families with children efficiently.

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Luggage Storage Options

According to forum posts, travelers have noted that there are no luggage lockers available at Masjid al-Haram in Mecca or Masjid Nabawi in Medina. Some travelers suggested storing luggage at Jeddah airport, where the fees are 69 Riyals for large luggage and 40 Riyals for smaller ones per day.

Handling Oversized Luggage on Trains

Travelers have called out specific considerations for oversized luggage when using the high-speed train between Makkah and Madinah. Oversized luggage might not be allowed on the same train and could be sent to the final destination via a courier service, arriving potentially the next day. The fee for this service was mentioned as 170 SAR for each oversized item.

General Luggage Tips

For many users, managing luggage during Umrah involves careful planning, especially when moving between cities or entering holy sites. It's advisable to travel light or use services like those at Jeddah airport to store larger bags during the Umrah trip.

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Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.