guide to a perfect hajj...hajj and a set price range to be followed by hajj travel groups and...
TRANSCRIPT
GUIDE TO A PERFECT HAJJ
http://guidetohajj.wordpress.com
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PREFACE:
I welcome all brothers and sisters who are visiting to seek information on the subject of Hajj
and related experience. Through this effort, I have tried to share my experience of Hajj
which I performed back in 2015. Through this effort I have made an attempt to share the
actual picture and the real time Hajj experience. I have gone through number of books,
discussed with people and have gone through number of online well-maintained and well-
informed blogs and forums covering a lot about Hajj, however frankly speaking, I cannot
name a single source that provided me a virtual Hajj experience. Not every site covers
everything and most importantly similar sort of information is available, repeating over and
over and in general these sources are not sharing information out of the box, not discussing
those simple things which a common Hajji faces every day and during the entire Hajj
journey. Majority of the important aspects are not discussed. Though this effort I have tried
to bring to your knowledge those aspects which are usually not covered and are important
and can’t be ignored.
The language I have chosen is English. For the sake of ease of access, i have also uploaded
a PDF Version of this website, so that it may be used offline or may be printed in a printer
friendly version. Why I have used Word Press? It is easy to use, free and of course its
famous and is not going down easily in near future.
The chapters to follow will cover the entire Hajj journey and my suggestions and
recommendations. The readers have every right to disagree or differ to my
recommendations and may act on your own please. If any error and a mistake is found,
please do let me know for earliest correction.
To all those who find this helpful are requested to like the page and share it with other
brothers and sisters. Helping others, though useful information, is a great virtue.
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HAJJ IN ISLAM:
Hajj in Islam, the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, which every adult
Muslim must make at least once in his or her lifetime. The hajj is the fifth of the
fundamental Muslim practices and institutions known as the Five Pillars of Islam. The pilgrimage rite begins on the 7th day of Dhū al-Ḥijjah (the last month of the Islamic year)
and ends on the 12th day.
The hajj is incumbent on all Muslims who are physically and financially able to make the
pilgrimage, but only if their absence will not place hardships on their family. A person may
perform the hajj by proxy, appointing a relative or friend going on the pilgrimage to “stand
in” for him or her.
About two million persons perform the hajj each year, and the rite serves as a unifying force
in Islam by bringing followers of diverse background together in religious celebration.
Saudi Arabia Time Zone: Saudi Arabia Standard Time is 3 hours ahead of Greenwich
Mean Time (GMT+3).
Airports: Flights either land at Jeddah or Medina. Flights do not land directly in Mecca,
instead they land in Jeddah. I would prefer landing at Jeddah. This way you will reach Mecca
first and immediately perform Umrah. The 2nd Umrah will be performed on your way back
from Medina to Mecca.
Weather of the holy cities:
The weather, both in Mecca and Medina, is hot. However it’s not humid. Therefore it’s
recommended to cover your head with the either a thobe or a scarf or a cap. Use umbrella
often. Keep water with you all the times. Avoid unnecessary travel in day time. Performing
Tawaf in direct sun light is not a health risk but it’s difficult and make you too tired and
exhausted.
Hajj Itinerary - Mode and sequence of travel:
Travel type Mode Day #
Home Country to Jeddah Air Plane 1
Jeddah to Mecca Hotel Bus 1
Mecca Hotel to Ziyarat & back Bus b/w (2-7)
Mecca to Medina Hotel Bus 8
Medina Hotel to Ziyarat & back Bus b/w (9-15)
Medina to Mecca/Azizia Bus 16
Azizia to Mina Camp Drop Point Bus 19
Mina Camp Drop Point to Mina Camp Walk 19
Mina Camp to Arafat Bus 20
Arafat to Muzdalifa Bus 20
Muzdalifa to Mina Camp Walk 21
Mina Camp to Jamrat & back Walk 21
Mina Camp to Azizia Walk b/w (21-23)
Azizia to Haram Round trip
(Tawaf e Ziyarat)
Taxi b/w (21-23)
Azizia to Haram Round trip
(Tawaf e Wida)
Taxi 24
Azizia to Jeddah Bus 24
Jeddah to Home Country Air Plane 25
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Types of Hajj – Facilities wise:
There are two types of Hajj
1. Tough one
o You travel in broken buses.
o You walk many miles due to unavailability of transport.
o You live in cheap places, away from haram, with poor service facilities.
o You eat average food from restaurants far away from your residence.
2. Easy One (Opposite of tough one)
Both are good. First one makes you tough, you learn new things and you come out of your
comfort zone and you thank God even more.
Second one allows you to focus more on prayers and zikar rather than focusing on other
issues. This second type is recommended for elderly people.
Cost of Hajj:
Each and every year millions of pilgrims make their way to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to
perform the major and minor pilgrimages known as Hajj and Umrah respectively. The
pricing methods and price range of performing the Hajj pilgrimage is vital as most people
put up all their savings and belongings to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. Low minimal cost of
Hajj and a set price range to be followed by Hajj travel groups and pilgrimage service
providers will allow the maximum number of people who are able and willing to perform hajj
both physically and financially can do so, without having to spend all of their savings or
having to sell off all their possessions. This move will also allow the pilgrims to be aware of
what services they will be provided in the money that they have paid to the travel group or
service provider, hence allowing them to not be overcharged or duped in to paying for
something that they have already paid for.
In 2016, the Saudi Ministry stated that the minimum cost for the local pilgrims (charged by
Moallim) had been set at SAR 3,000.
1. The price for the first category of the general program had been proposed to be ranging
from between SR 7,546 up to SR 8,146.
2. For the second category of the general program the price range had been set between
SAR 7,295 to SAR 7,895.
3. For the third category the prices had been set to range between SAR 5,893 to SAR
6,493.
4. The prices for the towers category i.e. all the pilgrims who were going to be
accommodated in the buildings located in Mina, would be at SAR 11,890.
5. The price range for the low cost Hajj package would be kept between SAR 3,282 and
SAR 4,132
6. Whereas the cost of the Easy Hajj also known as Muyassar Hajj would be charged at
SAR 3,000.
Government & private Hajj Schemes (Pk):
Both Schemes are different and are discussed below.
Government Hajj Scheme: Each country is allocated quota for number of Pilgrims that are
allowed each year to enter into Saudi Arabia for Hajj. The ministry of religious affairs
decides how much quota will be allocated to the private travel agents. As of 2016, govt kept
the 60% quota and allocated the 40% to the private agents. On average Rs. 271,000/- was
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the total Hajj charges and Rs. 13,340/- for the Qurbani. The Airline Ticket Cost Rs. 95,000/-
which is inclusive in the price quoted above. The total cost of the tour becomes Rs.
284,340/-. This is very reasonable. As per government Hajj scheme, anyone who has
performed Hajj within last 5 years is not eligible to apply. This criterion doesn’t apply on
people performing Hajj e Badal or are going as Mehram to a female. This package is
inclusive of 3 times meal per day for entire tour. Medina accommodation is provided within
500 m from Haram. An ever ready transport facility to pick and drop Hajis to and from
Haram. Buses to be used are not older than 2013. 50% of the Haji will go directly to Medina
while other 50% to Jeddah. Every Haji is entitled to 5L Zamzam on reaching back the home
country. The stay is usually in buildings a bit away from Haram and not in Hotels. Children
under the age of 2 years are charged 10% 0f the Airline Ticket cost only and they are not
charged other fee, which is excellent, while private travel agents may charge full or atleast
around Rs. 250,000/- the same child.
Once the Hajj policy for that year is announced, the forms are available from almost all the
banks free of cost. Each form has a unique number track able online on ministry of Hajj
website. You have to request form for each person including if it is a child. Every female or
child must enter the name and form number of Mehram in their forms. Each branch has
appointed a person for receiving forms and for guidance purpose. Forms along with photos
are submitted back to the bank that first inspects the form and once finding it complete add
this information to the MOFA website. They must issue you a computer receipt. You also
have to mention on the form whether you want Qurbani (sacrifice) be done by the
government. If you check that box you are supposed to pay additional sum of Rs. 13,340/-
for Qurbani. The total amount will be submitted to the cash counter of the bank in the form
of cash only. Almost always government receives more applications than the allocated quota
before the deadline of submission of form. In such cases a ballot is done and winners are
announced. This can be checked though the form serial number on the website of ministry.
If the group leader of Mehram fails to win the ballot, the entire group is considered as not
qualified. Moreover it has been noted that people applying second time have a better
chance of winning the ballot than the ones applying the very first time.
A sample Hajj Application form can be downloaded from here.
Private Hajj Scheme: Majority of the people, who are unlucky in the Govt Hajj Ballot
scheme, move to the private agents. However people may directly approach the private
agents, they don’t necessarily have to try a chance at govt. scheme. Private agents almost
charge double than the govt charges. Your form is filled by the agents. However make sure
to check while signing that they have filled it right. The major difference is the hotel stay in
both Mecca and Medina. The hotel stay is only available before the Manasik e hajj start.
They also shift the hajis to Azizia few days before Hajj. The stay in Azizia is at least for 10
days.
Usually travel agents charge groups millions of rupees and when you visit their office you
will find out that don’t even have educated staff. They have worst setups and untrained and
minimum possible staff. Most of the business owner have no professional knowledge and
care least about the customer care. As managing Hajj is a religious affair, it is being
supervised by such people who have some religious knowledge and are cut off from the
humanly aspect of care and understanding the needs of the customer. It is therefore
important that you make sure if agent is capable and understand your needs. Also first
check whether the name of the agent is listed on the website of Ministry of Religious Affair
as authorized agent for HAJJ. Also there is flexibility to customize the hajj package in
private Hajj schemes, therefore you must ask following questions. Please note that travel
agents usually offer one to two types of Hajj package, if the packages of the travel agent
doesn’t satisfy you, you may contact any other agent. It is recommended that you must ask
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the agent following questions. The usual expected replies are also quoted with my
comments in front.
Questions to be Asked to
the private travel agent
Usual Answers by travel
agents
My Comments
1. What is the acceptable
payment method?
Bank Cheques payable to
ABC Travels.
Only provide cross
cheques in the name of
the travel agency. Write
one cheque and do not
split it into two smaller
cheques. Agents request
splitting the cheques into
to small halves so that
inflow transaction into
the bank should remain
less than 1 million per
cheque as it is less
noticed by the govt
agencies [a stupid
approach]
2. Duration of travel and the
split.
Total 25 Days
7 Days Mecca
8 Days Medina
10 Days Azizia
3. Mecca and Medina stay
locations and type
3 Star stay at Mecca
(within 300m from Haram)
3 Star stay at Medina
(within 500m stay from
Haram)
Azizia Building
Maktab category B
Travel agents haven’t
booked anything yet.
They will take yours and
others money and will go
to Hajaz for booking
later on. Therefore
usually they won’t
commit the hotel name.
Insist on hotel within
Haram or just outside,
especially in Mecca, the
best choice is to have a
hotel room in Abraj Al-
Bait Mall / Clock Tower.
Star rating is not correct
in KSA. A hotel with
elevator and a small
dining area where only
outside food is served
may be rated as three
stars. Three stars are
pathetic hotels. Atleast
try for 4 stars.
Transportation is a
serious mess. Avoid this
by having a hotel closer
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Questions to be Asked to
the private travel agent
Usual Answers by travel
agents
My Comments
to the Haram.
4. Ask the hotels name they
have booked since last two
years.
Mecca Hotel Name
Medina Hotel Name
Azizia Building Location
Maktab Number
Google the Hotel and
star rating. This will give
you clear picture of the
arrangements your
travel agent can do.
5. Transport from Mecca to
Medina & Medina to Mecca?
Standard Buses (Air
conditioned)
Insist on private GMC or
VIP class Bus [latest
models]. [Please note
that VIP class buses
have a ticket of 55 SAR
per person one side and
SAR 55 x 2 = 110 for
Mecca to Medina and
from Medina to Mecca.
It’s way cheap and still
travel agents books 3rd
class buses which will
have faulty engines and
ACs and broke down in
the mid-way]
6. What travel agent is
charging for the three times
of meal? Tell him that you
don’t want the meals to be
managed by him?
3 times meal cost 35 SAR.
The haji may not pay this
amount and manage his
own food.
They are usually
charging 35 to 50 SAR
per person per day of
meals. It is rather
impossible to be
available for meal served
by the travel agent.
Even most of the people
eat only twice a day.
Also people when
outdoors love to eat the
food of their own choice
at the time of their
liking.
Travel agents are more
comfortable in returning
not more than 35 SAR
per person for 3 meals
for each day stay in
hotels only.
Meal at Mina, Arafat and
Azizia is included in the
package of Moallim of
the Maktab.
7. Ask about the list of
Ziyarats to be visited both
in Mecca and Medina and
who will manage the trip
List of tentative ziyarats
will be told verbally.
Not a very important
question to ask. Visiting
the important places is
like a big bus tour where
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Questions to be Asked to
the private travel agent
Usual Answers by travel
agents
My Comments
and transportation. the pilgrims sit in the
bus and there is hardly
any need to walk.
They usually start the
journey after sunrise and
return before Zuhar.
Its recommended to
sleep early the previous
night, as you will not be
able to sleep after Fajar.
8. Details of Azizia stay? A building in Shisha. It’s
newly constructed and well
maintained. Room will be
sharing for 6 persons.
Insist on not using a
building, instead getting
a 4 star hotel in Azizia or
near Mina/Jamrat.
Buildings in Azizia are
booked on monthly basis
with room rent at around
600 SAR per month. On
sharing with 6 persons
per room, these really
cost noting to the
agents. If travel agent
doesn’t provide the
hotel, you can still
request a separate room
for your family in Azizia.
Travel agents save a lot
of money through there,
however the service and
cleanliness is poor and
their distance from
Mina/Jamrat is double
that of hotel and it’s not
easy to walk the entire
way.
9. Ask for an AC TRANSPORT
GUARANTEE from Mina to
Arafat and from Arafat to
Muzdalifah.
Guaranteed. You can’t afford to miss
a transport while moving
to Arafat.
10. Category of Mina Stay (A, B
or C)
Category B – Air Cooler
and Foam Sofa Cum Bed
with Pillow
Categories are defined
later in this guide.
11. Category of Arafat camp (A,
B or C)
Category B – Air Cooler –
with Foam Sofa Cum Bed.
Categories are defined
later in this guide.
12. Food Menu at Mina? Types
of food, juices, drinks, ice-
creams etc.
Mix of Juices, Water and
Laban (Lassi) only.
Usually only Category A
package includes ice-
creams or customized
menu.
13. Transportation facility from Yes we will provide. When you reach Azizia
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Questions to be Asked to
the private travel agent
Usual Answers by travel
agents
My Comments
Azizia to Haram and from
Haram to Azizia (for
performing Umrah)
from Medina, you have
to offer Umrah.
14. Transportation Facility from
Azizia to Mina?
Yes we will provide.
15. The locality of the Maktab
and tentative numbers?
We will try near Masjid al
Khaif.
Ask for a closer Maktab
to Jamrat. The Maktab
may preferably be closer
to Masjid Al Khaif in
Mina. Use Maktab map
to identify. Maktabs
closer to Muzdalifah are
too far away. DO NOT
COMPROMISE ON THAT.
There is a lot of
travelling in between
Mina [Maktab] – Jamrat
-Azizia [stay building/
hotel], closer the Maktab
and Azizia the lesser you
have to walk in shiny
sun.
16. Any special transport in
between Jamrat and Azizia?
Sorry you have to walk. Ask for a special
transport from Jamrat to
Azizia, as provided by
Dar-e-Slam USA group.
Almost all people travel
this distance by foot,
except few well managed
groups.
17. Who will manage the
distribution of the food
provided by the Moallim in
Azizia & especially in Mina?
It must be the sole
responsibility of the agent.
The agent and you
brothers and sisters will
help managing.
Ask travel agent to hire
catering agency staff to
distribute and manage
food. Usually B & C class
travel agents don’t
bother and pilgrims have
to run around to manage
things on his behalf. This
is a bit tiring.
18. Ask for a separate bed for
kid both in Azizia and Mina?
We will IA manage. (a not
clear answer)
Mina camp is a very
small place. It is usually
very hard to move
inside. Therefore a kid
definitely requires an
independent space for
him/herself.
19. Details of arrangements at
Muzdalifah?
None Muzdalifah is empty and
accessible while pilgrims
are in Arafat on 9th. Any
agent of the travel agent
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Questions to be Asked to
the private travel agent
Usual Answers by travel
agents
My Comments
can simply bring a camp
and tent to Muzdalifah
and place it at a
comfortable location. It
will cost noting. However
this will help the group
to take rest at a covered
place once they reach at
night and don’t have to
make efforts to find a
better place to rest.
20. The details of necessary
items the agent will
provide?
• 1 Ihram/Abaya,
• 1 cheap backpack,
• 1 shoulder strip bag,
• 1 shoe bag and 1 pebble
bag.
Usually cheap stuff.
21. The details of transport that
will be provided for Tawaf e
Ziyarat?
IA will see later on. Expect an unclear
answer.
22. The details of transport that
will be provided for Tawaf e
Wida?
None They will not provide.
Note: All travel agents with no penetration and poor class will fail to answer most of the
above questions. Just don’t handover millions of rupees to such low class travel agents.
Visiting Haji Camp:
Whether you apply through, govt or private hajj scheme, once you and your group
members are short listed, you will be advised to visit the Haji camp, where you along with
the child are vaccinated again meningitis and flue. Keep the vaccination cards within your
passport. You are also asked to bring all the medicines you will be accompanying during the
entire tour (unboxed), only tablet leafs and syrups, to the haji camp. They will seal the
medicines in plastic bags. Once sealed, you will not be questioned about the medicine at the
Airports. Moreover it is recommended that you also keep a doctor’s prescription listing all
these medicines along with. Haji camp also has small shops from where you can buy
• Ihram/ Abaya
• Ihram Belts
• umbrella
• Different Bags
• Locks
• Safety pins
• Torches
• Air pillows
• Mats (made of palm leaves)
• Prayer Mat
• Tasbeeh
• Leather heel sock
• Odorless soap
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• Sleep bags
• Miswak
• Water bottles
• Medical Masks
• Nail cutter
• Rope etc.
I would recommend buying just neck ring air pillow; as this can be used both in Air Plane
and at Muzdalifa. Also Ihram belt may be bought from there. Also buy bag locks and
umbrella. Purchase Tawaf Tasbeeh of seven beads if available. I would recommend buying
another professional waste belt to tie over the basic Ihram belt from someplace else.
Usually your private travel agents do provide a backpack, 1 Ihram/Abaya, small shoe bag, 1
stone bag and 1 shoulder bag. Shoulder bag is only good for people who are either old aged
or are female. Young men might not like this bag at all. Sisters will require a scissor to cut
hair by them at completion of Sa’ee.
How much cash to carry:
This depends upon how much cash you have already paid in advance and how much you
have to pay by yourself.
Expenditure Type Payment
mode
Payment to Amount
in USD
Amount
in SAR
Air Ticket (Actual cost is 1000 USD) Advance Agent 1250 to
1500
Bus Travel
(Jeddah to Mecca Hotel) Advance Agent 60
Mecca Hotel (7 Days)
5 Star – 4 Sharing Advance Agent 500
Mecca Food (7 Days) Advance Agent 245
Bus Travel
(Mecca Ziyarat) Advance Agent 40
Bus Travel
(Mecca to Medina) Advance Agent 50
Medina Hotel (8 Days)
4 Star – 4 Sharing Advance Agent 500
Medina Food Advance Agent 280
Bus travel
Medina Ziyarat Advance Agent 40
Bus Travel
Medina to Mecca/ Azizia Advance Agent 50
Azizia Building (10 Days) Advance Agent 100
Azizia Food Advance Agent
3000
Bus Travel
Azizia to Mina Advance Agent
Mina Camp Advance Agent
Mina Food Advance Agent
Bus Travel
(Mina to Arafat) Advance Agent
Arafat Camp Advance Agent
Arafat Food Advance Agent
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Almost you have to pay SAR 605/- for important stuff by yourself in Saudi Arabia. Therefore
recommended cash to carry is minimum SAR 2,000/- to SAR 4,000/- which will cover
occasional fancy meal, taxis, additional shopping including gift purchase etc.
Cash/Credit Card:
In Mecca/Medina Credit cards are rarely accepted. Big Malls, Bindawood etc. only accepts
the credit cards. Abraj Al-Bait Mall is the biggest mall in Mecca and Grand Rashid Mall is the
biggest mall in Medina.
Hajj Basic Item list:
Item List Qty Remarks Where to Buy
Ihram/ Abaya 2 1 as a backup Raja Sahab,
Albalagh
Ihram belt 1 Raja Sahab,
Albalagh, Haji
Camp
Professional
Waste belt
1 Alfatah
Umbrella 1 small size. Raja Sahab,
Albalagh, Haji
Camp, Alfatah
Sun Glasses 1 Personal Choice
Water bottle 1 Small Nestle. No need for fancy bottles.
These can be disposed off or re-filled any
time.
Anywhere
Prayer Matt 1 Good Quality. Good because you will be using
this for your entire Hajj journey and you will
develop special liking for it because of its Hajj
use, so it should be quality wise good enough
to last long for years.
Albalagh
Tawaf Tasbeeh 1 Made of 7 beads. Once you reach Mecca, you
have to complete Umrah, which includes 7
circles around Kaaba. Usually people don’t
really remember the count of circles they
have performed. Therefore Tasbeeh is
Albalagh, Haji
Camp
Bus Travel
(Arafat to Muzdalifah) Advance Agent
Muzdalifah Food Advance Agent
Bus Travel
Tawaf e Wida
(Azizia to Haram)
On Spot Taxi 40
Qurbani / Sacrifice (online or cash) Before Hajj Ministry of
Hajj SA 450
Head Shave (2 to 3 times) On Spot Barber 15
SIM Card & balance On Spot Telecom
Operator 100
Bus Travel
(Azizia to Jeddah) Advance Agent 50
Grand Total Rs. 374,080/-
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Item List Qty Remarks Where to Buy
literally very helpful. The beads on Tadbeh
are hard to move, therefore there is not a
chance that it counts wrong by any mistake.
Sun block / lotion
(small)
1 Especially for Hajj days Medical Store,
Departmental
Store
Sun Block / lotion
(medium)
1 Entire Tour. Medical Store,
Departmental
Store
Mechanical
Tasbeeh Counter
1 Albalagh
Or From SA
Hajj Masnoon
Guide
1 Download
Salat Masnoon
Guide
1 Learn to offer Salat and Salat e janazah Download
Masnoon Dua 2 Download
Neck Ring Air
Inflated pillow
1 Neck ring is recommended over flat pillow as
it can also be used in whiel travelling in buses
and planes.
Raja Sahib,
Alfatah
Chitai (Palm tree
leaves mat)
1 Azizia (Mecca)
Backpack 1 Your travel agent will provide you one. You
may buy a different once of your choice.
Alfatah,
Raja Sahib
Torch (Medium) 1 Almost not required. Departmental
stores
Soap (unscented) 1 Albalagh
Bindawood (SA)
Tooth Brush 1 Departmental
Store
Clothes including
under garments.
Get your first cloth wash in Medina laundry.
Get second wash when you are back from
Mina in Azizia.
Razor for head
shave.
1 Don’t use cheap disposable razor. They won’t
work. Recommended: Mach III (it’s easy to
use and clean)
Hair Comb 1 Don’t use too often in Ihram as it can lead to
hair fall.
Leather heel
socks
1 Help prevent heels to crack while you offer
Tawaf bare footed.
Albalagh
Haji Camp
Head scarf or cap 1 To avoid sun. Mecca
Medical Masks 5 To be worn in very crowded places or places
where there is lot of dust or bus exhaust.
Medical Store,
Albalagh
Nail cutter 1 Albalagh
Haji Camp
Wet wipes 1 1 pack, especially if you are with family. Medical Store
Vaseline 1 Small sized. Medical Store
Medicines with
prescription
As suggested in later sections. Medical Store
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Basic Medications:
You May require following medications from Pharmacy
• Ciprofloxacin (Ciproxin) 500 mg – 10 tablets //For stomach infection
• Augmentin 625 mg – 10 tablets //for throat infection
• Pyodine for Gargle (in case of throat itching / infection)
• Cough Syrup
• Derma Cream (in case you catch rash between legs- which is often the case when
you wear ihram i.e. no under garments).
• Sticky Bandage (10 x 10 Cm) to avoid legs rash (use them inside Ihram) [Can be
bought from Abraj Al-Bait Mall Pharmacies]
Items that may be purchased from Saudi Arabia:
General Items: Bindawood chain is perfect place for this. Bindawood Abraj Al-Bait Mall has
4 floors; normally people are only aware of the single ground floor. Sleep Bags/ Umbrella
are all available easily from Bindawood. Sometimes you may find the items much cheaper
during sale season from Bindawood.
Tasbeeh: The ones made of artificial stones range from 10 to 45 SAR while the ones made
of original stones start from 60 SAR onwards. Usually the Tasbeeh with original stone and
silver metal coatings are the most expensive. My recommendation is the counter Tasbeeh
costing 10 SAR for your use and the ones with artificial stone for the purpose of gift.
Finger Tasbeeh that operates with cell are not recommended, as they can easily get reset
and can mistakenly be pressed multiple times.
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Prayer Mats: They start ranging from 10 to 100 SAR. Basic mats range from 10 to 20 SAR.
Normal mats range from 30 to 45 SAR. Special mats (with memory foam or compass) are
from 60 to 120 SAR.
Beesline Offers Fragrance free Hajj Kit: Can be bought from Bindawood at 25.50 SAR
Description of items included in it:
Shampoo
• Shampoo for everyday use fragrance-free and convenient use during Ihram for Hajj
and Umrah
• Suitable for all hair types
• Moisturize with rich honey and olive oil nutrients
• Very gentle on the skin and hair
• Use daily to keep the hair health and shine
• For you and your children because it is very safe
• It also fits sensitive skins
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Soap:
• Moisturizing honey soap fragrance-free and convenient use during Ihram for Hajj and
Umrah
• Botanical composition rich with honey and vegetable glycerin humidifier
• It cleans the skin and leave it soft and silky refreshing
• Suitable also for sensitive skins
• Use method: rub on the body or face and then rinsed
Ointment protective bee’s wax
• Components: oil carrots, wheat germ oil and oil Nigella sativa
• Rich in precious oils that protect the skin and moisturize them,
• Effective in protecting skin areas prone to friction and wear because of walk and
jogging.
Flexible Water Bottles
These are very handy for filling them on daily basis with Zamzam. These are easy to carry
in bag and take any shape. Can be bought from Bindawood for 10 SAR with 5 Liters
capacity, 10 L can be bought at 20 SAR.
It folds almost completely flat when empty, only the nice wide opening stops it going
completely flat which means it’ll fit in almost anywhere even if you’re already packed full.
The Carry handle built in gives a reasonably comfortable grip and you’re only going to be
carrying 5 liters so it never digs into your hand too much.
State of Ihram:
Ihram clothing includes men's and women's garments worn by Muslim people during the
Ihram pilgrimage (Hajj) and or (Umrah). The main objective is to avoid attracting attention.
Men's garments often consist of two white un-hemmed sheets (usually toweling material)
and are universal in appearance. The top is draped over the torso and the bottom is secured
by a belt; plus a pair of sandals. Women's clothing, however, varies considerably and
reflects regional as well as religious influences, but they often don't wear special clothing or
cover their faces. Recommended Ihram fabric is as under.
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When and Where to Wear Ihram:
Please note that Miqat are the points or areas, which must not be crossed before entering
into the state of Ihram, while you are going for Hajj or Umrah. Allama Iqbal International
Airport has a small Mosque next to international lounge, a small Wudu place. Most of the
people wear Ihram there; however I would recommend wearing it from home.
How to wear Ihram: There are multiple ways to wear and fasten the Ihram. Please go
through online videos and practice few times to understand the process. Very easy it is.
Using Ihram Belt: It is recommended that Ihram Belt may only be used while wearing
Ihram. In other cases use a backpack. When using Ihram belt keep the following Items in it;
• Umrah/Hajj Guide
• Passport (they will collect passport from you at Bus terMinal in Jeddah & you will get
it back at the Bus terMinal [last day])
• Wallet
• Tawaf Tasbeeh
• A note book
• Cell Phone
• 1 Medical Mask
Also make sure that your belt can never be opened from the back side.
You may also use two Ihram Belts. One, the flatter one, as empty to support your Ihram
and the second one over it to carry the above mentioned stuff. Remember at Airports,
during scanning, you will have to remove belt each time. Therefore the first belt will keep
supporting Ihram in the absence of the second belt. Though it’s not necessary to keep belt
on to support Ihram.
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Jeddah Air Plane to Mecca Hotel (Timelines):
The journey is long and tiring. Based on the experiences, I have provided below the time
breakup of the entire journey.
Event Time (hrs)
Min Max
Air Plane to the Airport building 0.5 1
Immigration Process
This time is directly proportional to the number of passengers from
other Hajj flights, already waiting for their turn. Immigration process
itself only takes 2 to 3 min. You Passport and documents are checked,
fingers are scanned and photo is taken. Then immigration staff is
usually polite in dealing with Hajis.
1 4
Luggage collection 0.25 1
Bus Waiting
Then the Hajis move onto the Bus Waiting area. Once the Bus arrives
the Passports are handed over to the Saudi Hajj Authorities in the
Presence of Pakistani Hajj Staff already available at Bus terMinals.
1 2
Wait inside the Bus at the Bus terMinal
Often the driver will count the passengers sitting in the bus and will
match with the numbers of passports received. Once they are sure that
every person sitting in the Bus has passport submitted, a receiving is
given to the Pakistani Hajj Staff at the terMinal for the record of
Ministry of Hajj Pk. The passports are then handed over to the Bus
driver who them drives the bus to Mecca Do not drink water from water
dispensers available at airport. The water tasted more like fresh slimy
water to me.
0.5 1
Jeddah Airport to Mecca
The Bus directly reaches the Moallim’s Office (the Office of your
Designated Maktab). These Passports are submitted by the driver to
the office. On his way back he provides everyone with the wrist band.
Wrist band is not mandatory to wear, it just contains information of
your Maktab during Hajj days. It doesn’t have any information about
you or your hotel stay. So use it during Hajj days.
1 3
Total 4.25 12
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Arrival at Jeddah Airport
Mecca Haji Identification card: Your travel agent/guide will receive Mecca Haji
Identification cards, that contains your passport number. These will be provided to you in a
couple of days’ time once you reach Mecca. These are important identification cards in the
absence of your passport. These are mandatory for the purchase of the SIM card.
Luggage Handling: You will personally handle your luggage from Baggage till Bus.
However it is always responsibility of the Moallim’s staff to load/Offload your luggage
to/from Buses in all of the following cases.
• When moving from Jeddah to Mecca.
• From Mecca to Medina
• From Medina to Mecca
• From Mecca to Azizia
• From Azizia to Jeddah
The Baggage movement to/from room to outside building/hotel will mostly be done by the
Haji himself. Hotel staffs are rarely cooperative.
Mecca Hotel Staff: Usually Bangladeshi and Indian Staff. They are poor in English, Urdu,
Arabic. Don’t expect standard service from them. If you are not happy just escalate to the
duty manager or to the house keeping manager. Escalation works best.
It would be better if hotel staff offers atleast two card keys, so that you and your family
may have separate keys for ease of access.
SIM Card:
Every Haji must have a SIM Card and a cell phone in order to stay in contact with others. I
would also strongly recommend using Data service. I had used Zain and found it OK.
Zain offers two types of SIM
• Voice + Data SIM (Cheap voice rate + a bit expensive data rate)
Cost = 30 SAR with 25 SAR balance. (Passport required)
Additional data of 3GB will cost 100 SAR.
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• Data SIM (no voice facility but data package is cheap)
Cost = 20 + 50 = 70 SAR for 5GB data package (Passport required for new SIM)
This SIM is good if you have a 3G or LTE pocket router to be used as WiFi.
When recharging a SIM, it requires not only voucher information but also Ikama or Passport
number. If the SIM is not yours and you don’t know the Ikama/passport to whom it is
issued you might not be able to re-charge it. Therefore better get your own SIM. Therefore
do not buy SIMs at Airport from Unknown people as they are issued against certain
IKAMA/Passports which you will be unaware of.
Not all ZAIN service centers are cooperative to check and give you the Ikama/Passport
number against which it is issued. I also faced the same issue, Zain service center in Abraj
Al-Bait mall refused to share Ikama/Passport information; however I got the information
from one of their Service center nearby Masjid e Nabawi in Medina, near Hilton hotel.
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The Great Mosque of Mecca
also called the Grand Mosque, is the largest mosque in the ,(Masjid al-Harām ,المسجد الحرام)
world and surrounds Islam's holiest place, the Kaaba, in the city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
Muslims face in the Qibla (direction of the Kaaba) while performing Salat (obligatory daily
prayers). One of the Five Pillars of Islam requires every Muslim to perform the Hajj
pilgrimage, one of the largest annual gatherings of people in the world, at least once in his
or her lifetime if able to do so, including Tawaf (circumambulation) of the Kaaba.
Memorizing the location: Usually the areas around Masjid al Haram are identified by the
gates of the masjid. Therefore when trying to memorize the area, it’s better to memorize
the nearby masjid gate.
Prayer break at shops: Please note that shops in Mecca and Medina close 5 to 10 min
before Azan and re-opens 5 min after salat.
Elevators: No Elevator is found in Masjid Al Haram, except for the one that allows Wheel
chair people to come from Marwa top floor to ground floor. This update is as of 2015.
Wheel Chair on Escalator: For wheel chairs, elevators are not available and escalators are
used.
• The person on the wheel chair either stands on the escalator and the one
accompanying him hold the Wheel inclined on the escalator separately
• The other way requires a little more care where the wheel chair alongwith the person
seated is run onto the escalator and the person driving it from behind will keep a
strong hold to it so that it may not fall back side. Whether you are going up stairs or
down, the back of the wheel chair should always be on the lower side of escalator.
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Buying Guide for Wheel Chair: If you are looking to use a wheel chair, then follow
following recommendations before buying. Hajj is gathering of millions of people, places are
crowded especially where Manasiks are offered. Especially during Tawaf there is a huge
chance the wheel chair might occasionally hit the person walking in front. Usually the
footrest hit and people running the wheel chair have poor visibility of footrest. So choice of
foot rest is the only important thing when buying the wheel chair. Always choose the one
with foot rest made of pipe covered with foam. Flat metal footrests are very dangerous and
can very easily contribute to injuring others.
Recommended Footrest Not recommended
Backpack for Men while going to Haram:
Men should carry basic backpack while going to haram. Keep following in it.
• Shoe (when you put them off while in masjd)
• Umbrella (to avoid sun while performing Tawaf and outdoor travel)
• Prayer Matt
• Glasses
• Prayer Books (to be read while not offering salat)
There is a random bag check at entrance gates by security staff. Please be cooperative. The
male staff may inspect the male Haji while female staff standing a little ahead may check
the bag females are carrying.
Where to offer prayer within Masjid Al Haram:
In Masjid, prayer can be offered at any place except the corridors. Women are required to
offer prayer at the back and not standing in front. They will be advised to leave the front
rows.
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Corridors are the areas with a long brown Mat and Zamzam cooler placed on the sides. The
praying areas usually have shelves in front having Qurans in different translations and
tafseer placed in them.
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Funeral prayers: Funeral prayers are offered after each Salah in Masjid al Haram and
Masjid al Nabawi. One should not engage in offering sunnah and nafl prayers immediately
after the congregational prayer is finished. One should wait for a while instead and join the
Funeral Prayer if any because attending Funeral Prayer promises great reward.
The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:
“Whoever follows a Muslim’s bier, out of faith and seeking to increase his account of good
deeds, until he makes the funeral prayer for it will have a Qeeraat’s worth of reward. And he
whoever follows it until it is buried, will get two Qeeraats” He was then asked what two
Qeeraats were and he replied, “They are equivalent to two huge mountains; (the smaller of
the two is like Mount Uhud).” (Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim).
Supplication for the deceased at the funeral prayer
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�O Allaah, forgive our living and our dead, those present and those absent, our young and
our old, our males and our females. O Allaah, whom amongst us You keep alive, then let
such a life be upon Islaam, and whom amongst us You take unto Yourself, then let such a
death be upon faith. O Allaah, do not deprive us of his reward and do not let us stray after
him�.
Closing & Opening of Entrance Doors: At Salat timings, Masjid e Haram gets too
crowded and the security teams close the entrance doors usually 1 hr before salat and are
re-opened 30 mins after the salat is over. While doors are closed offer salat outside the door
at designated places marked by green barriers only.
Usually people find it difficult to make a comfortable routine in Mecca. As the gates get
closed 1 hr before salat and open 30 min after it. It is best to offer Zuhar and Asar Salat in
the Masjid. Take lunch break in Abraj Al-Bait Mall. Return well in time for Maghrib and Isha
Salat.
Designated places must be filled first before people are allowed to lineup for prayer in the
walking areas. Same rule applies inside Masjid. You will see green partitions blocks being
used both inside and outside Masjid building for indication of Praying area, Door closure or
diversion.
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Zamzam Water in Masjid al Haram and Masjid al Nabawi
As of today, there is an underground pumping station at Zamzam well in Masjid al Haram.
Although this well is not accessible to public but its water is abundantly available in both
mosques i.e. Masjid al Haram and Masjid al Nabawi. Zamzam water is pumped to taps
in Masjid al Haram whereas it is transported to Medinah by water tankers.
There are coolers of Zamzam water identical to as shown in below photo at multiple
locations inside both mosques.
Almost all coolers contain cold Zamzam water. However there’s always one cooler at each
place containing Zamzam water at room temperature. Look for “NOT COLD” text for that
one. Unless you have throat issues, cold water is best to use. It’s actually just cold and not
too cold.
Cooler containing Zamzam water at room temperature.
Disposable plastic cups are also placed in specially designed cup-holders attached to
Zamzam water coolers. It is important to note that new cups are always placed upside-
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down whereas used cups are placed upside-up. Although there is no harm in
using other Muslim’s used utensil but I would recommend to always use new glass
for hygienic purposes as getting caught in cough or bad throat is very common there.
In addition to coolers, there are some taps supplying Zamzam water inside Masjid al Haram.
All taps supply cold water. There is no tap for room temperature Zamzam water. Most of
these taps are between Safa and Marwa.
Zamzam Water Outside of Masjid al Haram and Masjid al Nabawi
All water available inside both mosques is Zamzam water. However Zamzam water coolers
are not available outside mosques. Only Zamzam water taps are available at few locations
outside Masjid al Haram. Other taps have ordinary water for drinking or for doing wudhu.
Read the board first if you are looking for Zamzam water outside mosque building. This
includes place outside King Abdul Aziz Gate. Gate 1 as shown in below 2 pictures. Water can
also be bottled from Safa Marwa and some other places. Filling of Zamzam in bottles is only
allowed from designated places and not from coolers. In fact coolers are enclosed in such
stands that you can only fill cup and not a bottle.
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Regular drinking water is also available. So you must be wise enough to identify the
difference through the sign boards.
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Shoe Racks: Small shoe racks are also available inside masjid building near praying areas.
Outside main Door much bigger racks are available. I would suggest keeping a shoe bag to
hold shoes in it. Bring it with you while praying. You may put wrapped shoes along with you
during Salat. You can place them in front, next to a nearby Pillar, or left or right of Sajda
place.
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Toilets: Whether it is Masjid Al Haram or Masjid-e-Nabawi, the toilets are all underground;
accessible though escalators, outside main building of Masjid. These are marked places and
easy to find. However if you leave the building for Wudu or for toilet around 30 to 40 min
before Salat, please expect to find incoming gate closed and you will have to offer Salat
outside.
TAWAF & SA’EE
Mataf Bridges:
Mataf also has two bridges. One is called the Lower Mataf Bridge and the other the Upper
Mataf Bridge. These bridges were temporarily created during construction phase. I am not
sure for how long will they exist?
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The ground floor of masjid connects directly to the lower Mataf bridge while in order to
access the upper Mataf bridge, which is dedicated for the wheel chairs, you have to take
escalator to reach the upper floor of mosque which directly connects to the Upper Mataf
Bridge. During Hajj Days, the entry to upper Mataf Bridge is only allowed from an outside
entrance via a temporary bridge. Ask Masjid staff for exact details. The below MAP indicates
the temporary bridge.
Masnoon Prayers during Tawaf: Usually people do not remember masnoon prayers. In
such case voice record the DUAs with some gaps and play and listen to them using hands
free while you are performing Tawaf. This way you can recite the same during Tawaf.
Locating group members within Mataf: While you are on Mataf and you are split from
your group. The easiest way to coordinate is to come near any of the fan fitted on the wall.
Each fan has a unique number in a specific order. By telling your group mates the fan
number you are standing close to, you can easily be located.
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One Effective Method of Tawaf in Group: This is very common among large groups from
South Asia and South East Asia to offer Tawaf altogether, with sisters in the center and men
around them like guards. This is an effective way. Usually sisters choose same color of
scarfs to easily identify their group mates.
Sa’ee:
Sa’ee area has 4 floors. All floors have flat floor however ground floor has inclined path
towards Safa and Marwa hills. Safa and Marwa hills actually don’t exist now only their
remains are visible.
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View of the remains from multiple floors.
For those who are either tired or have issues walking long path between Safa and Marwa
and can use rented scooter available only at third floor at 50 SAR. Those who have rented it
can pass on to others for free as well.
Hair Cut: After Sae’e, for haircut, barbers are available in lane just left of clock tower or
outside Marwa. In both cases you have to come outside Masjid Al Haram. Sisters who cut
hair in the Masjid are requested not to throw hair in Masjid. Just dispose them off in waste
bins.
Accessing Hateem & Multazim:
Hateem Gate is freely open at around 12:00 AM so people can freely come and leave. The
area is not much crowded. Multazim is also easily reachable between 12:00 to 02:00 AM.
Please note that usually people are not much updated about Multazim. Al-Multazim is the
part of Ka'bah between its door and the Black Stone. After drinking the water of Zamzam, it
is recommended that one should make special supplications at Al-Multazim.
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• Ibn 'Abbas reported that he used to stand between the Black Stone corner and the
Ka'bah door and said, "The space between the Black Stone and the door of the
Ka'bah is called 'AlMultazim' and whoever stands here and supplicates to Allah, he
gives him whatever he supplicates for." (Al-Baihaqi)
• 'Amr bin Shu'aib reported from his father, and he from his father that he said, "I
have seen the Prophet (peace be upon him) placing his face and chest against Al-
Multazim”.
Abraj Al Bait
The Abraj Al-Bait (Translated as "The Towers of the House") is a government-owned mega
tall complex of seven skyscraper hotels in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. In addition, the Abraj Al-Bait
Towers has a five-story shopping mall (the Abraj Al Bait Mall) and a parking garage capable
of holding over a thousand vehicles.
Salat Inside Abraj Al-Bait Mall:
Inside Abraj Al-Bait Mall, at ground floor, around 30 min before Salat, the staff start
marking the designated places for praying with Plastic tape. Purpose is to manage the Salat
in such a way that the corridors may not get blocked and both Male and Females get to
their designated places for Salat. This area is also part of Haram. If you don’t get a chance
to go inside Masjid, I would suggest offering Salat here under the Air Conditioned Roof.
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Food in Mecca - Abraj Al-Bait Mall Food Court Overview:
Food court is on floor P3/P4. There are plenty of fast food restaurants in the mall both local
and international. These mostly offer Showarma, and chicken BAR B Q. With these so many
options people usually don’t have idea what to eat and what not to. The decision to choose
restaurant is very critical. The taste of food overall is too plain and I would seriously suggest
not to buy anything just by looks. There are few recommendations I would give based on
my experience with these restaurants. I am sorting them based on rating and priority.
Pizza:
If you are looking to eat Pizza, Mazaq offers the best pizza. Next comes the Pizza Hut.
• MAZAQ (1) – Best
• Pizza Hut (2) – Very Good
• Sbarro (4) – they prepare infront of you but taste and quality is average – Location
P4. Sbarro menu is as under.
Burger:
• Burger King (1) - Best
• Hardees (3) - Average
Showarma:
Showarmas are all average. These can be rated as below.
• Momin (1) – Just Ok
• Gulf (2) – Just Ok
• Qatar (7) – below average
• Istanbul (9) – Dry – below average
Fried Chicken:
• Al Hanim (1) – Quality and rate wise it is the best – Located on P4
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• KFC (2)
Donuts/Coffee:
• Krispy Kreme (1)
• Starbucks (2) – Located on Floor 1 –
o Cappuccino (Regular/Tall/Grande = 15/17/19 SAR) – Grande is big enough
for 2 (if on budget ☺)
o Chicken Cesar Salad Wrap/Subs are average
o Chocolate Lovers Cake = 15 SAR (Best)
o Squidgy Cheese Cakes are good.
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Desi:
• Faisalabad Restaurant – Serves Pakistani Cuisine – Worst restaurant in the mall.
Drinking Water:
• Small = 2 SAR
• Soft Drink = 3 SAR
My recommendation is Burger King (Whopper), Al Hanim and Krispy Kreme.
Slaughtering Rituals
The right time for slaughtering Hady and Udhiya is after the Eid Al-Adha prayer until sunset
of the third day of Tashriq i.e. 13 Dhul Hijja. Fidya, Sadaqa, and Aqiqa can be performed as
a ritual at any time of the year
Types of Slaughtering Rituals
Hady It is mandatory on any pilgrim performing Tammatu’u i.e. perform the Umrah
during the months of Hajj and then perform the Hajj during the same year and
on Qaarin i.e. any pilgrim performing the Umrah and the Hajj together by saying
“Labbayka umratan wa hajjan”. The right time for slaughtering the animal is
after the Eid prayer until sunset of the third day of Tashriq i.e. 13 Dhul Hijja. As
for a Mufrid i.e. a pilgrim performing the Hajj only without the Umrah, they are
not required to perform the Hady ritual.
Udhiya It is performed as a ritual during the Sharia-mandated period i.e. after the Eid
prayer until sunset of the last day of Tashriq i.e. 13 Dhul Hijja.
Fidya It is mandatory on a pilgrim performing either the Hajj or the Umrah if they
failed to perform an obligatory ritual of the Hajj or the Umrah or did a forbidden
act. The ritual can be performed at any time of the year.
Sadaqa It can be performed as a ritual at any time of the year.
Aqiqa It is a Sunnah ritual that is performed for a newborn as a gesture of gratitude to
Allah the Almighty.
Sharia Requirements for Hajj Slaughtering Rituals
• The age must not be less than six months for a ram and one year for a goat
• The animal must not be apparently lame
• It must not be skinny
• It must not be one-eyed
• More than half of its ear must not be amputated
• More than half of its incisor tooth must not be broken
• It must not be sick
• Its horn must not be broken
• Its buttocks or tail must not be amputated
• Its age must not be more than three years
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Through Travel Agent:
Usually your travel agent, while you are Azizia, will approach you and tell you that he along
with other agents have had a plan to offer the animal sacrifice and those who would like to
do the sacrifice just pay them. The pilgrims also have to tell them the type of sacrifice and
the number of sacrifices.
Sacrifice through ADAHI:
In order to realize this noble objective, the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
established the ''Saudi Project for Utilization of Sacrificial Animals'' to help realize the
Shari'ah objectives of Hajj and to enable Muslim pilgrims to benefit from their Hajj and its rituals. The project is named as ADAHI.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has provided the Project with all the requirements needed to
ensure that all the animals slaughtered in all slaughterhouses of the Project meet all Shari'ah and health requirements.
The Project acts as an agent to pilgrims in carrying out on their behalf the slaughtering of
all types of offerings they make and the transport and distribution of the meat, all in
accordance with the principles of Shari'ah.
Purchasing of Sacrificial Vouchers
Types of vouchers
The Project offers 5 types of vouchers with various pictures and colours, depending on the
type of sacrificial offering (i.e. Hady Qiran or Tamatu' or Udhiyah or Fidyah or Sadaqah)
the pilgrim wants to make. There is also a special coupon for the pilgrim who would like to
make offerings on behalf of 30 pilgrims or more.
Prices of vouchers
As there are two types of slaughterhouses: the open and the closed ones, the prices of
animals in the open slaughterhouses are determined in agreement between the pilgrims
the vendors of animals.
For the closed slaughterhouses, the Project has been keen to supply sheep at the lowest
prices possible. It floats a tender for the supply of the required numbers of sheep in a
public tender and awards the supply contract to the supplier of the lowest price.
The Project mediated for the supply of more than half a million heads of sheep. It is also
keen on managing its business with the least cost possible. The pilgrim contributes
towards offsetting this cost and the Bank bridges the deficit, if any.
The price of the coupon gives a breakdown of the total price, which includes the price of
the animal slaughtered as an offering and the pilgrim's contribution to the offsetting of
veterinary, slaughtering, chilling, transportation and distribution of the slaughtered
animals.
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Price of the Animal Offered SR 374
Contribution of the pilgrim to the cost of processing the
animal slaughtered:
slaughtering services & Chilling SR 76
Transportation and distribution SR 10
Total Price of the Coupon: SR 460
Where to Buy the Vouchers
The Project has contracted with A1-Rajhi Banking and Investment Corporation, which has
branches spread around the Two Holy Haram in Mecca and Al Medina, the places where
rituals of Hajj are performed, points of entry to the Kingdom and the various cities in the
Kingdom, as well as, Al- Amoudy Exchange Office in the Holy Places for the selling of
coupons of the closed slaughterhouses, through its branches and outlets. The coupon
consists of 3 parts: part number (3) goes to the pilgrim or person who represents 30
pilgrims or more against payment of the price; part number (2) is given to the committee
responsible for carrying out the slaughtering whereas part number (1) is kept for
accounting purposes.
The pilgrim has the option to authorize the special committee established by the Project to
do the slaughtering on his behalf as an individual, or to join a group of no less than 30
pilgrims, who can give authorization for one of them to represent them before the Project.
In this latter case, such authorized person will be given a permit that will give him access
to Mu'aisim (1) Slaughterhouse in Mena (which is the only slaughterhouse within the
Project specifically devoted to authorized representatives of pilgrims). At this
slaughterhouse, he can supervise the act of slaughtering and to take a number of
carcasses after they have been skinned and cleaned, if he wishes to do so.
The pilgrim representing a group of other pilgrims should be keen on bringing and
presenting at the entrance gate of the slaughterhouse his Access Permit to allow him
enter.
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The rituals can either be purchased on spot in cash or online any time through Adahi
website link https://www.adahi.org/English/DelegateUs/Pages/default.aspx. If due to any
reason you think you are required to offer Fidya, even if you remember the mistake while
you have reached back home country, you can pay for Fidya online.
I would recommend not paying the money to travel agent instead buy voucher through
Adahi.
Fatawas (Legal Rulings) on Sacrificing
[Advancing or Delaying the Time of the Slaughtering of Hady]
Q1: Some pilgrims ask about what if their authorization to the Committee of the Saudi
Project for Utilization of Sacrificial Animals results in the slaughtering of their offerings prior
to stoning, shaving and performance of Tawaf, or what if slaughtering was delayed on that
day to be effected after performing these rituals.
A1: In an authentic Hadith, it was narrated that a person came to the Prophet (PBUH) on
the Day of Sacrifice (Eid-ul-Adha) and said: "I shaved my head prior to offering my
sacrificial animal". The Prophet's reply to the man was "No harm, go and offer your
sacrificial animal". Another person came and said: "I offered my sacrifice prior to the ritual
of throwing stones". Again, the Prophet's reply was "No harm, go and throw your stones". A
third person came and said: "I performed the Hajj Tawaf prior to the throwing of stones".
The Prophet's reply was similar to the preceding one. On the whole, the Prophet entertained
all cases of sequential order on that day with the standard answer: "No harm, just go and
do what is required to be done". The point to be derived from this tradition is the following:
A pilgrim becomes free from the state of Ihram (the restrictive status) if such pilgrim has
performed all the basic requirements of Hajj with the exception of the sacrificial offering. In
other words, performing the sacrificial offering is not a prerequisite for the complete
terMination of the state of Ihram. Pilgrims, however, should be reassured that the actual
slaughtering of the sacrificial animal starts immediately after Eid-ul-Adha prayer and is
completed before the sunset of the 13'h of Dhul Hijjah (the last of the Tahriq Days).
Journey from Mecca to Medina:
Usually buses left Mecca after mid-day and each Medina around Isha. It’s better to reach
not later than Iisha.
When you travel intercity the buses are provided by the Moallim/ Maktab. The luggage
handlers will also come along with the bus. They are responsible to pick your luggage from
the road into the bus, either on the roof top or beneath into the cargo area. It is
recommended that wheel chairs be put in cargo area at the last. So that during a mid-stop
you may easily remove wheel chair if required. The bus then goes from the hotel to the
Moallim’s office where the luggage handlers drop off and the driver go in and take your
passports and keep in his custody. The process of collecting passport and verifying that
each person is on board may take 1 to 2 hrs depending upon how quick and resourceful
your travel agent is. Once next city is reached the passports are submitted first to the
Moallim’s office by the driver and then he picks the luggage handlers and then reaches the
hotel where the luggage is offloaded.
Mecca-Medina distance is 450 Km and max allowed speed is 80 Km/hr for Hajj bus. So
practically it takes 6 to 8 hrs to travel intercity. Also there is a sand storm area identified
by boards in between where in case of a storm, the visibility gets reduced literally to zero.
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It is a must requirement that you remember the number of your bus or take snap of the
front of the bus. Buses usually look the same and you don’t want to forget which bus you
are supposed to sit again.
THE CITY OF MEDINA
Stay in Medina:
Accommodation wise, recommended area to stay in Medina is hotels behind Gate 11 to Gate
25. The most recommended area is outside gate 21/22. The benefits are as under.
• The mosque is very easily accessible.
• Easy to reach back Saaf when you are late.
• Less walk within courtyards both for men and women.
• Fast food chains like Hardees and KFC are nearby.
• Bindowood is nearby
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• Bangali market is nearby, good for desi food.
• You will find mini malls in between back gates, i-e gate 11 to 22. You can even find a
place that offers Anda Burger ☺
Star Rating of hotels: The star rating is highly misused in Mecca and Medina. Please
expect a 3 star hotel to just be a 1 star hotel.
Shopping in Medina: While you are in Medina, best place to do shopping is from
Bindawood which is located near Gate 17 of Masjid –e Nabawi
As all of you are looking forward to buy lots of dates of you and family, the best to shop is
while you are in Medina. There is a date market having dates of best quality near Gate 17
basement. Do not buy already packed dates. They might be old and have developed worms
inside. Please taste them and always buy soft and juicy (more fresh dates). Do not buy hard
and too sweet dates with less juice. These are too ripen and may get damaged by the time
you reach back your country. Get the dates packed in front of you, the shopkeeper will offer
you all sorts of fancy and cheap packing’s of your choice to pack the dates in. You can also
buy cheap prayer mats, Abayas, bags from there. You may bargain the price as well. The
general rates of dates are as under;
• Ajwa Small sized – 50 SAR/kg
• Ajwa Regular sized – 65 SAR/kg
• Ajwa Regular sized (very fresh and juicy) – 80 SAR/kg
• Ajwa large sized – 110 SAR/kg
• Kalima dates or any other regular fresh and dark colored dates at 25 SAR/kg
Please note that dates are expensive in Mecca. In Abraj Al-Bait Mall, the date that cost SAR
120 per kg cost SAR 65 per Kg in Medina. Don’t buy old dates. They have high probability of
developing maggots. They also taste like extra sweet oil. Only buy juicy and fresh dates.
Never buy packed dates. Also buy them open and get them packed in front. Old dates are
cheap. Very old dates are very cheap. Don’t get fooled by the low price of old dates. I have
seen people buying 30+ kg of Ajwa already packed having maggots later discovered.
Buying Saudi Local Dress:
If you are interested in Saudi local dress then you can buy it from the market outside gate
21 at following prices.
• 75 SAR for Shirt
• 20 SAR for trouser
• 10 SAR for head ring
• 10 SAR for head cloth
Laundry in Medina:
You can find laundry shops nearby Masjid e Nabawi. They will charge
• 3 SAR per shirt or per trouser
• 2 SAR per under garment.
• 10 SAR per abaya.
Malls in Medina: Two known malls of Medina are Al Noor Mall and Al Rashid Grand mall.
There is a food court on the 3rd floor of Al Rashid Grand Mall (the largest mall in Medina).
Some restaurants like Pizza Hut offer discount if you have already made a purchase and
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have submitted an online review. You may order once and enter a review and order the
second with the discount. You will find Hardees, Pizza Hutt, Taco Hutt, KFC etc. there.
United Shop is a good place to visit. Taxis are hard to find there, or at least I found it
difficult to find them. They will charge 30 to 40 SAR to haram. Best time to visit is after
Zuhar prayer. You may offer the Asar prayer in the mall. And Maghrib back in the haram.
Tea in Medina:
Usually tea in Medina cost around 2 SAR. It is made of water & condensed milk (Luna)
inside a disposable card cup along with a tea bag. An electric kettle on the other hand will
cost 40 SAR. My recommendation is to purchase a kettle, condensed milk can, the card
cups, the very same day you reach Medina. It can be bought from the market outside gate
7. This will cost much less to your group for the remaining days.
Restaurants in Medina: It’s not easy to find food of one’s choice in Medina. There is a
Pakistani restaurant at 5 min walk from gate 17 Masjid –e-Nabawi. If someone is interested
following Pakistani restaurant may be tried. It’s close to gate 7 of Masjid e Nabawi.
Filming in Medina: I was trying to shoot Masjid from outside while I was close the
Pakistani restaurant in Bengali Market, a policeman almost had my mobile phone
confiscated. After multiple requests, he returned it back only after making sure that the
video is deleted. Therefore be very careful making videos while you are outside in public
and you see law enforcement people nearby.
Complaints registration mechanism: If at any stage you think that your travel agent has
cheated you or miss committed, you may register a complaint to Pakistani Hajj Mission.
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INSIDE MASJID E NABAWI:
Visiting Roza Rasool and Riaz ul Jannah:
In Medina, if you want to visit the Roza Rasool, which is located inside Masjid e Nabawi, use
the gate Bab Us Salam. That’s the only way you can reach the Roza Rosool. While entering
from Babus Salam, the path will be split into two. The right one goes directly to Roza Rasool
and you will reach within few min of wait. While the left one goes through multiple sections,
blocked by partitions, to Riaz ur Jannat (identified by its green Carpets) and then Roza
Rasool.
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Bab us Salam
Roza Rasool (SAW)
Riaz ul Janat
Most of the people usually do want to go to Riaz ul Jannah and offer prayers there.
Therefore this path is crowded. Best time to visit is after Isha at around 9:30 PM. It is way
less crowded at that time. Please do not push other people for an early turn. Usually the
way towards Riaz ul Jannah is split into 3 sections. Each section can hold around 40 people.
Sections 1 is the most crowded. Sections 2 has space for 55 people but they only allow
around 40 to enter (all from section 1), Section 3 has space for 75 people while Riaz ul
Jannah can accommodate around 85 people. You will be given enough time to offer prayers.
My experience is that one can offer 8 nafal and 1 witar and some additional payers like
reciting quran (which are available there) very conformably. Once they ask you to leave,
rather than arguing or starting a new salat, it’s better to leave the place and give chance to
the others in the waiting. Moreover once you leave Riaz ul Jannah you will pass through the
Roza e Rasool. You may offer Darood there.
Quran Shelves: Inside Masjid e Nabawi there are shelves around every pillar holding
Quran. Quran shelves cover around tow third of each pillar
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There are also golden Brass racks, gold plated, reserved for area covering 16 to 20 pillars.
These contain Qurans of different translations (Chinese, Urdu, English Hindi, etc.). These
also contain Quran for Blind people.
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The carpets in the Masjid are designed in a unique manner, allowing each person 3.5 feet of
vertical space. It is advised to stay in your space else you might be disturbing others
through your feet and head during Sajda.
Wooden Shoe Racks: There are always two wooden shoe racks below, one on each side,
marked with a unique number. Each entrance gate to building has a chair stand (having lots
of chairs) and shoe rack. Anyone requiring a chair to offer prayer may get one from there.
Just outside the main building, just when you enter the corridors, you will see plastic bags
roll placed vertically on the pillars. These are helpful to put your shoes inside them. A single
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bag can be used multiple times. This will help keeping shoe stand and Masjid clean. Also it
is recommended not to place the shoes on the carpet. Place them in the shoe racks placed
around every pillar.
Female Praying Area: You will find wooden grill partition inside the masjid. That partition
is keeping the women praying area separate. Please note that unlike Masjid Al Haram, the
female and male praying areas are totally separate in Masjid e Nabawi. Female praying
areas are covered and are on the back side.
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Movable Domes: There are domes on the roof that slide horizontally front and back. They
allow sun light to directly come inside when open. They are usually opened after Zuhar only
for 20 min around 1:15 PM to 1:35 PM.
Toilets/ Wudu/ Parking: You will find two toilets per gate. One faces towards the gate
and other faces towards the Masjid.
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Wudu place is on the ground floor while toilets are underground accessible through
escalators. Between two toilets is underground parking. Thus there is an underground
rectangular area of toilets-parking-toilets-parking … Parking and toilets both have two
underground floors.
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Sleeping and resting inside Masjid e Nabawi: It’s very common to see people lying on
the floor sleeping on the carpets, before and after praying time. Sleeping isn’t allowed in the
masjid, however in general no one will object you even if you lie down and sleep.
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Closing time for Masjid: Unlike Masjid Al Haram which stays open 24/7, Masjid e Nabawi
is closed for few hrs after mid night.
Zamzam Water in Masjid e Nabawi: Zamzam coolers are also placed all over the Masjid.
Short Dars: You will often see a reasonably sized chair within an area covered by 16 to 20
pillars. This is used for daras, in different languages, at short scale.
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Post Salat Tasbeeh: It is recommended to make a list of duas/ prayers that you would like
to recite after every salat. Also make a list of all people who has either requested you to
pray for them or who you would like to pray for, so that you won’t forget any name. A
Tasbeeh counter is helpful in counting Tasbeeh.
Masjid e Nabawi Staff: Staff is divided in ten categories and wear ten different uniform
depending upon the task they perform.
Dark Green Sweepers outside the main building courtyard + Road area.
Maroon Toilet and Wudu and parking area.
Light green Zamzam Handler (inside)
Light Blue Quran Handler. Place them back to actual location or distribution.
Dark blue Sweeper inside.
Khaki Support service staff.
Travelling back from Medina to Mecca:
When you travel intercity the buses are provided by the Moallim/ Maktab. The luggage
handlers will also come along with the bus. They are responsible to pick your luggage from
the road into the bus, either on the roof top or beneath into the cargo area. It is
recommended that wheel chairs be put in cargo area at the last. So that during a mid-stop
you may easily remove wheel chair if required. The bus then goes from the hotel to the
Moallim’s office where the luggage handlers drop off and the driver go in and take your
passports and keep in his custody. The process of collecting passport and verifying that
each person is on board may take 1 to 2 hrs depending upon how quick and resourceful
your travel agent is. Once next city is reached the passports are submitted first to the
Moallim’s office by the driver and then he picks the luggage handlers and then reaches the
hotel where the luggage is offloaded.
Mecca-Medina distance is 450 Km and max allowed speed is 80 Km/hr for Hajj bus. So
practically it takes 6 to 8 hrs to travel intercity. Also there is a sand storm area identified
by boards in between where in case of a storm, the visibility gets reduced literally to zero.
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It is a must requirement that you remember the number of your bus or take snap of the
front of the bus. Buses usually look the same and you don’t want to forget which bus you
are supposed to sit again.
On your way back from Medina don’t forget to be in Ihram and recite the Dua at Miqat.
Every bus stops at the Miqat location for 30 min allowing hajis to wear ihram and make
Neyat for whom they are performing the second Umrah. I would recommend to perform this
Umrah on behalf of you parents or any elderly who can’t come to offer by himself. Below
map identifies Miqat points in red.
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On your way back from Medina to Mecca, the first stop is usually made at Spetico after 150
Km. You will find burger king/ Albaik chicken and a super store there.
Once you are reach check point at Mecca, they offer free Zamzam bottle and a gift (usually
biscuits etc.).
The passports are again submitted to Moallim's office by the driver. He picks luggage
handlers and reaches the Azizia. The handlers offload the luggage on to the road for you.
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Arriving at Azizia:
At Azizia, the travel agent will assign you a room. Usually they have planned 6 persons per
room and men are arranged stay in one room and women separate. Unless you have a big
family of 6 you may request a separate room.
Another bus after an hr or so will pick you from Aziza and take you to haram for completion
of Umrah. Keep reciting the Tasbeeh labaik allahuma lakib from Miqat till you see Kaaba.
Then stop reciting it.
Azizia is like team building place. There you will learn to live in a sharing manner before
going to even tougher place Mina. Rooms are spacy, clean; vide bathrooms (cleanliness is
subject to how much new the building is). Each room has 6 to 7 beds and nothing else.
Keep your bags infront of your bed. They also offer a shared kitchen with no stove, just a
water sink and a washing machine, a small dining table for 4, a microwave and a small
fridge. This kitchen is shared between 3 rooms.
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The food here is responsibility of Moallim, 3 times a day. Usually people get fed up of the
plain food by Moallim. Also there is no service and you hardly see anyone cleaning the
kitchen or the room. It seems like as if the building is designed to be cleaned only before
you arrive here and only after you leave. Use washing machines to clean your clothes. Buy
tide from nearby shop. Such shops usually offer milk, honey, Palm Leaf Mat, tea, biscuits
and basic juices.
Your luggage will be kept here and this place will now be your base station till you leave
Mecca after performing hajj.
Just a recommendation that avoid accompanying elderly to the Haram from Aziza during
last few days before Hajj. It is usually crowded and it’s better to keep them away from
crowds.
Spend time praying along with socializing in Aziza/ Showkaya/ Khalidiya etc. Please note
that Mina is not a place to socialize. Please get your accommodation cards of Aziza stay, as
you might not know the address on your way back from Haram each day. Travelling to and
from Haram towards Azizia is very difficult. Taxis are hard to find by and they often charge
100 SAR where the normal rate is 25 SAR. Best thing is that your travel agent may have
arranged buses for pick and drop at specific timings. Buses usually drop 1 to 1.5 km away
from Haram (the Marwa side). In Azizia you will also find mobile signal issues. There is not
so good mobile coverage there.
MOVEMENT AND STAY IN MASHAYER REGION
On the 7th of Zil Hijj night or 8th Zil Hijj morning Moallims of various Maktabs mobilize
pilgrims from Mecca to Mina which is around 8 Kms. More than 20 lakhs pilgrims move
almost within the same time frame from Mecca to Mina. The travel time from Mecca to Mina
can take long hours. Pilgrims should be patient. There are also possibilities of breakdown of
buses which might lead to delay in reaching Mina. Mina has identical tents and pilgrims have
to remember their Moallim Number and also the number written in the poles located within
the tents.
Preparation for Mina Departure:
Before you go to Mina and Arafat, you must buy a handbook for dua. This can be bought
from the store on the ground floor in Abraj Al-Bait mall. Buy a couple, in case you lose one
or someone asks you to share. It’s better to go through all of them in Azizia.
Note down list of people whom you will be praying for during hajj. Note down prayers for
yourself as well (to be recited in Arafat)
Absolutely start ignoring trouble. These first 3 days of Mina are critical. So if you can ignore
troubles in Azizia, IA you can also ignore them in Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah.
When you prepare for Mina, you keep following items in the back pack. Don’t make it too
heavy.
• 1 Jeans/Trouser (for wearing after you open ihram)
• 2 T shirts
• 1 Shalwar Suit with azar band
• 4 under wears
• 3 to 4 Zikar Hand books
• 1 Hawai Chapal
• 1 Chitai
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• 1 Torch (might be required in muzdalifa // almost not required)
• 1 charger for mobile.
• 1 battery bank
• 1 socket converter
• 1 pair of glasses
• Small lotion/ cream for 7 days
• 1 sun block
• 1 umbrella
• 2 0.5L water bottles to be kept in side pockets.
• 1 five (05) L foldable water bottle for emergency Wudu specially in Muzdalifah. Keep
it empty.
• ID card/Travel agent card/Mecca Card/Mina Card etc.
• Mina hand BAND.
• 2 to 3 plastic bags
• 1 small biscuit
• 1 razor (good quality, mach3 is best for head shave)
• 1 tooth paste (v small)
• 1 shampoo (small)
• 1 small soap or use the same shampoo.
• 1 hand sanitizer.
• 2 Medical Masks
• Some medicines (including leg bandage)
Lock your suit case before leaving Azizia. Please note that there is one Bindawood close to
Azizia. Taxi will take 20 to 30 SAR. Sleep bags are useless and don’t buy any.
Lock your room and place the key at the reception so if any of the room member ever want
to come back to access room, key shall be available to him.
It’s recommended to have a Mina Map with you.
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Accommodation at Mina
Mina is a valley with limited space and pilgrims have to share their living space with many
others inside large tents. Pilgrims have to stay in Mina for 5-6 days. Arrangements in Mina
are made through Moallim and each Moallim accommodates around 5000 pilgrims in his
tents. Space is extremely scarce in Mina and pilgrims should carry only essential baggage
with them.
The stay at Mina and Arafat falls under three categories i-e. A, B, C. Even the food you are
served there can be customized depending upon how much you pay and how much your
travel agent knows about this.
Category A: Strong Camp with Iron Door. The camp is air conditioned. Form bed (Sofa cum
bed) at floor, 1 shawl and 1 pillow. The customized menu may offer variety of juices, ice-
creams etc. You will have your independent freezer outside your camp.
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Category B: Wooden Walls camp, plastic door, foam bed (sofa cum bed) at floor, 1 shawl
and 1 pillow, air cooler installed & with basic food.
Category C: Plastic paper Walls. Cloth carpet on floor as bed.
Please note that there are VIP Mina Camps as well for special use.
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It is the responsibility of the Maktab to provide 3 times meal, fruit, juices, leban (Lassi) etc.
as per the package. The distribution lies with the agents, who usually fail to perform this
obligation and the haji brothers and sisters have to distribute by themselves. Usually cooler
are available with ice in them that keeps the drinks and water bottles cold. The provided
food plates are divided into 3 sections. Usually rice, daal/ beans and meat are provided to
hajjis and sometimes only mutton and rice.
The agent has already paid the Maktab in advance as per the category and the facilities. The
sofa cum bed is 1.5 feet wide and 6 feet long. And they are all tightly placed together. Even
the luggage has to be placed within that place, most probably under your feet. Once you
reach Mina, you will be given a pocket Quran as a gift by Moallim.
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Remember the location of your camp through nearby sign boards and of course through
GPS.
There are 1 or 2 pillars available inside each camp. You may use metal hooks and stand to
hang your bag. However I have seen hooks breaking and luggage falling down, so use
strong hooks and don’t lie underneath.
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The wheel chairs & shoes are placed just outside the door. Please note that corridors are
narrow and placing a lot of stuff outside may block it.
A strange thing I saw near Wudu place ☺
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In each group there always are people who keep on giving advice/fatwas on you doing the
things wrong way. Just ignore them and don’t get into any debate. It’s the toughest thing to
ignore any such debate.
Arafat:
Arafat is a very peaceful place. It’s not like open sunny ground. Arafat is also a mini city of
tents. Temporary stay also has classes. The class of the tent assigned to you is same as
that of the Mina and the one assigned to you by the Moallim. Avoid taking bag to Arafat or it
will be thrown away by shurtas on your way back from Muzdalifa to Jamrat via Mina. Usual
image of Arafat (Jabl e Rehmat) is as under.
However you don’t need to go to the Jabl-e-Rehmat. You may stay in the tents and pray.
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Category A: Strong Camp. The camp is air conditioned, have refrigerator as well. Foam bed
(Sofa cum bed) at floor and 1 pillow. The customized menu may offer variety of juices, ice-
creams etc.
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Category B: simple cloth tent, foam bed (sofa cum bed) at floor, Air Cooler.
Category C: simple cloth tent, carpet on floor as bed. No Air Cooler or fan available.
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Journey to Arafat:
After offering Fajr prayer in Mina on the Ninth of Dhul-Hijjah (second day of Hajj), pilgrims
leave for Arafat. The journey to Arafat is 1 hr journey by bus. People start leaving early
after fajar. Usually you get Buses by 8:00 AM. Once you reach there you thank Allah that
you have reached Arafat. Without reaching Arafat there is no Hajj. Once you are here. I
would recommend you not to indulge in talking infact just go to sleep till 12:00 PM. Once
awake, listen to the hajj Sermon (Khutba), offer 2 rakat zuhar salat and 2 rakat asar salat
combined at Zuhar time. Once free take the lunch provided by the Moallim. This is usually
provided in a big thaal (plate) good to eat for 5 to 6 people on sharing basis. Usually this is
mutton rice.
Toilets are available however you will have to wait in a queue of two to 3 people. There are
also places for Wudu here.
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Wuquf-e-Arafat:
After lunch Wuquf-e-Arafat starts at declining of sun and ends at the sunset. This whole
time is spent reciting Talbiyah, repenting on sins, uttering supplications and asking Allah
(swt) for His forgiveness. Zuhr and Asr prayers are offered combined at Zuhr time, if prayed
in Masjid-e-Namrah, and offered separately, if away from Masjid-e-Namrah.
Usually you will have 4 hrs for Zikar. I would recommend to plan it wisely & not to get time
wasted. It’s almost not possible for anyone to do zikar without any plan for these many
hours. An example plan is provided below for reference. [Don’t forget to bring along with
you the pocket books for zikar and the mechanical counter. One such pocket book which is
highly recommended is Hasan Al Muslim].
2. Reciting Masnoon Dua
(500
Times)
Abu Huraira (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) said, "Renew your
faith." "How can we renew our faith?" they asked. The Prophet replied:
"Say always: la ilaha illallah." [Ahmad with a fair chain of authorities]
La illaha ilAllahu, waHdahu la shareeka lahu, lahul Mulku, wa lahul Hamd,
wa Huwa ala kulli shaiy'in Qadeer (There is No God But Allah Alone, who
has no partner. His is the dominion and His is the raise, and He is Able to
do all things)
Whoever says the above ten times, will have the reward for freeing four
slaves from the Children of Isma'il (AS) [Sahih al-Bukhari; 7:67, Muslim;
4:2071]
100
times
SubhanAllahi wa biHamdihi, SubhanAllahil adheem (Glory be to Allah, and
Praise, Glory be to Allah, the Supreme)
Muhammad (SAW) said: "Two words are light on the tongue, weigh
heavily in the balance, they are loved by the Most Merciful One"
[Sahih al-Bukhari; 7:67, Muslim; 4:2071]
100
Times
La Hawla wa la Quwatta illa Billah (There is no Might or Power except with
Allah)
[the above is] a treasure from the treasures of Paradise.
Sahih al-Bukhari; al-Fath al-Bari #11:213, Sahih Muslim #4:2076.
200
Times
Astaghfirullah al-'Adheemal-ladhi la ilaha illa Huwal-Hayyul-Qayyum wa
atubu ilaih (I seek the forgiveness of Allah the Mighty, Whom there is
none worthy except Him, the Living, The Eternal, and I repent unto Him)
Whoever says the above words, Allah will forgive him even if he deserted
the army's ranks.[ Abu Dawud 2/85, At-Tirmidhi 5/569]
100
Times
Surah Al-Ikhlas
200
times
SubhanAllah, walHamdulilah, wa La illaha ilAllahu, waAllahu Akbar (Glory
be to Allah, All Praise is for Allah, There is No God but Allah, Allah is the
Greatest)
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The above are mentioned as the four most beloved words to Allah. It does
not matter with which one of them is begun.
[Muslim; 4:2072]
3. Prayer in own native language.
For this please go out of your tent into one of the corner where you find yourself
confirmable. Face towards Qibla and raise your hands to pray to Allah Almighty.
Distribute the remaining time till maghrib as follows and pray.
50% time Your own self
20% time Parents
15% time Family
15% time Relatives, neighborhood, country, Muslim brotherhood.
This is one example just as a suggestion how to distribute the time. You may plan and
choose your own way please. Also please suggest your family members the same as well.
Praying alone in your native language is the best part of the hajj. People literally weep and
cry. The day of Arafat is the time you will ask your creator of forgiveness as if you have
decided not to leave without HIM forgiving you. For me these hours were the best hours of
my life, I wish the same for you too IA.
Journey towards Muzdalifa:
You may find people start sitting in the buses even before Maghrib. However this doesn’t
matter as the buses will leave only after Maghrib. Once people start leaving, search out for
empty nearby class A tents. These can be identified by their outdoor AC units. Ask your
group to shift to these tents as they are more comfortable, till your bus arrives. You may
find laban and other refreshments in the refrigerator. You will get a bus between 6 to 9 PM.
Active and well linked agents with better packages get early buses. These buses are usually
new. Usually 3rd class agents get the worst treatments, getting the worst buses and getting
them very late. So please choose better agents, with bigger groups and better package.
In case you are a “victim” of a poor agent, and you get a bus that has nonfunctional air
conditioner, then you must use Medical Mask to avoid the exhaust fumes of other buses.
Drop at a location closer to Mina in Muzdalifah. However, the later you arrive at Muzdalifah,
far away from Mina you will get a place to settle. Don’t sit on road as the buses will keep on
coming and disturbing you the whole night. Don’t expect a peaceful night, its crowded and
buses keep coming.
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At Muzdalifa sleep bag is a waste. Use simple Chitai made of palm leaves. This will cost 10
SAR if bought earlier while leaving Azizia. At Muzdalifa locals sale them at 50 SAR. Use your
chitai and the Air Inflated Pillow. Don’t forget to offer Maghrib and Isha before you sleep.
Toilets are dirty. Drinking water is available however it’s better to keep your own along
with.
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Journey from Muzdalifa to Mina:
Use GPS map to travel to Mina. Leave early morning after fajar. Leave unnecessary items
like Chitai etc. behind and move to Mina. Even if you take these items with you before you
enter Mina, the Shurta will take all such unnecessary stuff and throw away. Pilgrims should
not take any baggage with them while going for Jamarat ritual. The police at the entry
points may snatch the bags and throw it in the Garbage. Hence kindly do not take your bags
for Jamarat rituals. Pilgrims who are unable to walk should give the responsible of stoning
the Satan to other pilgrims. Wheel chairs are also prohibited in the Jamarat region, except
at night. The main purpose is to create space for crowd and not for the luggage. Journey
will take 1 hr. The path is steep upwards. This is covered and has lots of toilets.
Condition wise the toilets are just fine.
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If you are pushing a wheel chair, you will find it tough in the end. Usually the main entrance
is closed and Shurtas or the available staff tells you to come from behind. Maps are
available once the Mina starts. Once you reach your Maktab, ask gate entry person to open
gate for you. If they don’t open and ask you to come through some other door, then do not
hesitate to show your wrist band, your identification card that shows you belong to that
Maktab. Local Saudis do not understand English. They also do not like to fall into discussion
with the pilgrims and usually want you to go ahead. Advice is not to leave the maktab door
as the way is one way and they will not allow you to come back and you can’t walk all the
way back in a circle at that part of the time.
Arrival at Mina and Rami Jamrat: Take Breakfast. Sleep in case you have sore legs.
Please note that recommended place to collect stones for rami is from Mina. Rami is open
till night. However it’s better to leave for Rami early to avoid crowd or leave after Zuhar
when you think the crowd has reduced. Don’t forget to take the umbrella alongwith as the
way back from Jamrat to Mina has no shade and hot sun literally burns you. Though there
are water sprinklers installed on the back but not very affective. Avoid crowd during rami.
While you are going for rami you will find lots of places with small pebbles. Collect them in
plastic water bottles. It’s a best way to keep and carry them. Use small pebbles, of the size
of peas. Jamrat has multiple floors. Use first floor. Do not hurry in throwing stones at
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Jamrat. Simply cross them till you reach the end of that jamrat. At the end you will find
almost no crowd. Surprisingly so less people are there, that not only you can throw stones
at jamrat, but you can also throw stones on behalf of others. Also you can even make a
video. Seriously the last part of each jamrat is absolutely out of crowd. People are in such a
hurry that 90% of the people start throwing at jamrat at the very start and leaving the far end empty☺.
On 10th of Zilhaj, only stones are thrown at the 3rd Jamra, the Jamrah Akbar. It’s better to
stay in corners on your way back. Once you come out of Jamrat, you will find lots of barbers
sitting there doing head shave. It’s your choice to do it there at 10 SAR cost or back in Mina
toilet with your own Mach III.
Returning from Jamrat, Shaving Head and Ghusal: On your way back between Jamrat
and Mina you will find outlets of Zain and mobily who offer free umbrellas. You may collect
one from there. Once you reach back take Breakfast if you haven’t already taken. Last 12 to
15 hours were tough and you haven’t slept much. So its best time to sleep. Wake at 12:00
PM Offer Zuhar. Take your clothes and go to Ghusal area. Shave your head and take bath
and open Ihram. Mina Bathrooms are ok.
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This is the most comfortable time. By this time expect ADIHA to have performed the animal
sacrifice on your behalf. The Ihram you were wearing was full of sweat and dirt. People
sometimes throw away Ihram, some keep it for offering the Tawaf e ziyarat, other keep it
aside and wash it when reach back Azizia. It is required that Tawaf e Ziyarat be done in
Ihram.
Tawaf e Ziyarat & Sa’ee:
I would recommend Tawaf-e Ziyarat with old people to be offered late and not in day as it is
way too crowded, however it is Afzal doing it the first day. You have to spend at least half
the night in Mina. Spending 4 hours after maghrib is good enough. You wear Ihram again
and leave for Tawaf at 12:30 AM. Leave Mina through Jamrat. Completely cross Jamrat and
you will end up on road to Azizia at 1:30 AM. Either wear a new Ihram here or take a taxi.
You will only find taxis from Azizia and not from Jamrat and Mina. Drop at haram, opposite
to clock tower. After 1 to 2 Km of walk you will reach Marwa side. Once reached, you will
find least possible crowd. Infact very little crowd. Take outside circle or use shortcut to
directly reach Mataf. Offer Tawaf. On left of Marwa there are available elevators to reach
different sa’ee levels. Usually top floor is least crowded. Scooters are also available at SAE
third floor at the cost of 50 SAR or people who are already using might give it to you for
free. Once free from Saee offer the Fajar Salat. No head shave is required as it is already
done. Go to Abraj Al-Bait Mall, P3/P4 floor and take your breakfast. Donut and coffee from
Krispy kreme is highly recommended. Once you are done, move to the basement of the
mall. Once out you will find taxis there. Take one and leave for Aziza. Taxi might take 100
SAR (usual rate is 30 SAR).
Travel To/From Azizia & Mina (through Jamarat):
Please note that Masnoon time for Rami is from Noon till Maghrib from 11th till 13th Zilhajj.
Though elderly may also perform rami after maghrib as per Fatawas.
Jamrat has two exits, one straight at the end and one on the right side. The one straight
goes to Mecca and the one on the right goes back to Mina. One both exits you will find
Albaik restaurants. Albaik offers fried chicken. Their production and sales are huge. At one
time you will find around 100 people waiting in queue. However it takes them 15 min
through their 18 counters to clear the entire queue. During hajj days they only offer limited
menu due to time limitations they avoid customized ordering. Usually you will get 10 to 12
nuggets and 2 buns in 12 SAR.
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Dar-e-salam is one of the topline service providers. Their special passenger car offer
passenger pickup and drop facility from Jamrat to Azizia. Saving few Kms of walk for 25
SAR is a best idea.
Once leaving Jamrat, whether you head towards Mecca or to Mina, the entire way is too
long and has no shade. The entire path is hot and sunny. You can’t afford to walk without
umbrella. Use sun block as well. Always take two bottles of water for that journey.
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Leaving Mina: On 12th Zilhajj people start leaving Mina via Jamrat to Azizia. They will stay
in Azizia till the last day. Then will pack luggage and load on buses and go to offer Tawaf e
Wida and will leave for Jeddah and home country. On 12th Taxis are especially hard to find
by and traffic is usually Jam packed. Therefore do not delay your Tawaf e Ziyarat. It’s better
to offer it max by night between 10th and 11th of Zilhajj.
Tawaf e Wida & Departure:
If you are leaving on 13th zil hajj, you don’t need to rush. Unlike 12th Zil Hajj, on 13th the
crowd is reduced and taxes are available in abundance. Reach Haram before Zuhar. Taxi will
still charge high rates of 100 SAR. Offer Zuhar. Offer Tawaf and spend time in Zikar. Enjoy
lunch at food court of Abraj Al-Bait mall floor P3/P4. Leave after Maghrib. Offer Isha at
home. Leave Mecca at mid night. In general you must leave Azizia 12 hrs before your flight
from Jeddah (a safe calculation, considering traffic delays, and airport delays).
Jeddah Airport Terminal:
The Jeddah Airport Terminals are expected to be heavily crowded. You will not find luggage
trolleys. These are very hard to find by. People bribe the airport staff for arrange one for
them. It takes a long time to get the boarding card. Even when the boarding card is issued
the staff are not sure which plane will be available and at which gate. It may take few hrs
for you to wander entire airport before someone confirms you the gate number at which
your plane might be boarding. Once you reach lounge you will find passengers of other
cancelled flights sitting there and you will find them least cooperating, sitting on the floor
not giving ways. This is seriously a mess.
Bringing Zamzam Back Home:
Saudi Authorities officially don’t allow taking Zamzam water in suit cases or in hand-carry.
However people carry water in 5 L bottles in their suit cases. Authorities usually neither
open the cases and therefore do not object. However in my opinion they know what inside
the case as they scan and they stay quite on that as if they haven’t seen it.
Officially you will receive a 5 L Zamzam bottle through your Airline once you reach back
home city airport. You will show the coupon, given to you by the airline along with the
boarding card in Jeddah. One coupon means 5 L of Bottle of Zamzam.
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Tour Feedback:
At the end of the Hajj, your travel agent will request you to fill the feedback form issued by
the government and submit back to him. Do not hesitate to fill it as per actual and submit
back to the address provided by the government at the bottom of the form yourself. Every
complaint and feedback is important and is replied back. I would not recommend to
handover the feedback form to the travel agent.
Link to feedback form:
http://hajjinfo.org/hajj/uploads/Feedback%20form%20Private.jpg
Feedback form Private.jpg
MAPS:
For reference purpose I am sharing following maps along with the link. This will help
understand the sort of journey you will be performing.
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Link A (Inter-city Travel Map): https://goo.gl/m5FuWd
• Map (Pakistan to Saudi Arabia)
• Bus Route (Jeddah – Mecca)
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• Bus Route (Mecca – Medina)
• Bus Route (Medina – Mecca/Azizia)
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• Miqat Points:
Link B (Hajj Maps): https://goo.gl/cPQcd7
• Walk Map (From Mina to Azizia), (From Azizia to Mina) & (From Muzdalifah to Mina)
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• Bus Drop Map (From Azizia to Mina Camp)
• Walk Map (Rami Jamrat) – Purple route
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• Bus Route (From Mina to Arafat)
• Hotel Distribution Mecca