Pilgrimage to Mecca, known as Hajj, is obligatory for all Muslims with the physical and financial ability to make it. Over 3 million Muslims visit the city during the month of Dhul-Hijjah yearly. Visits during other months are known as minor pilgrimages or Umrah, and while not compulsory Muslims are encouraged to perform Umrah if able to. The government of Saudi Arabia issues special visas for those making the pilgrimage. Most pilgrims choose to use a specialist and government-approved travel agency.
Women must travel together with a male guardian (Mahram) unless they are over 45 and traveling with a group. Visas are assigned to countries on a quota basis according to the number of Muslims they have. Those who have previously been to Mecca have restrictions placed on their entry, in an effort to reduce overcrowding while still allowing those who have not yet made the pilgrimage the chance to do so. Those intending to make the pilgrimage to Mecca should take into consideration the travel tips and advice listed below.
Before you travel
- Visit your GP at least 4 weeks prior to departure to discuss if you are fit enough to travel, what vaccinations you need and what health precautions you need to take.
- Make sure you review the advice published each year from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with advice on health requirements.
- If you take regular medicines, make sure you have enough for the length of your journey and carry a doctor’s letter for prescription medicines.
- Take two sets of photocopies of valuable documents prior to leaving your country. Carry one set with you in a separate bag to the original and leave one with someone back home.
Safety and security
- With over 3 million pilgrims performing Hajj each year, overcrowding is expected at religious sites. Pilgrims should be alert and aware of possible safety risks such as stampedes.
- Safeguard your belongings and valuables from theft.
- Use authorized places when changing currency.
Vaccinations
- Saudi health authorities require vaccinations for everyone over two years.
- They also recommend pilgrims get vaccinated for seasonal influenza.
- Pilgrims traveling from some African and Asian countries need to take additional vaccines before traveling to Saudi Arabia.
Health risks
- Pilgrims need to protect themselves from sun, dehydration, exhaustion, foot injuries, and respiratory and bronchial illnesses.
- Due to concerns about the outbreak of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS) and Corona-virus Disease 19 (COVID-19) the Saudi Ministry of Health recommends that the following people not perform the Hajj at the current time: the elderly (above 65 years of age); those with chronic diseases such as heart disease, kidney disease, respiratory disease, diabetes); those with immune deficiency, malignancy, and terminal illnesses; pregnant women; and children under 12.
Entry and exit requirements
- All bookings must be made through Saudi government-approved travel agents.
- Foreign pilgrims must have a Hajj visa. The visa allows pilgrims to travel to Mecca, Medina and Jeddah. Visiting other cities is not allowed during or after Hajj.
Arriving at the airport
- Due to the large number of pilgrims visiting the country for Hajj, delays are expected. It generally takes several hours to clear customs and immigration at the Hajj terminal.
- It is, therefore, a good idea to take some food and water with you.
- On arrival at the Hajj terminal, your passport will be taken from you by the authorities and an identification card will be given to you. Your passport will be returned to you on your departure.
Tips for healthy travel
- Pilgrims should stay well hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade when possible.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water especially before meals and after using the toilet.
- Drink water and beverages that are from sealed bottles.
- Avoid touching your nose, mouth, or eyes with unwashed hands.
- Try to avoid compact and crowded areas during Hajj and perform rituals at non-peak hours if possible.
- Men shaving their hair need to make sure the barber uses disposable blades and that they have not been used before. Seek licensed barbers if possible.
- Be cautious when eating at food stands. Eat meat that has been thoroughly cooked.
- Use tissues when coughing or sneezing and dispose them after use and wash your hands.
If you get sick on the journey
- Bring a first aid kit with necessary and regular medication and treatment for diarrhea.
- Extra intake of liquid is recommended for those suffering from diarrhea.
- Salts for oral rehydration are available in local pharmacies.
- Seek help from health professionals if you are feeling sick.
Lastly, remember to be patient. Getting worked up over the slightest thing will do you no good. Stay calm and make as much Dua as possible. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so make it count inshaAllah.
Image Credit: Ömer F. Arslan on Unsplash
