Umrah is considered a sacred journey for Muslims worldwide. For many Pakistanis, performing Umrah is a dream coming true. While making the arrangements seems difficult, proper planning and research ensure a smooth pilgrimage. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to perform your Umrah from Pakistan.

When is the Best Time?

While Umrah can be done year-round, the best time for Pakistanis is usually during winter between November to March. The summer months are extremely hot in Saudi Arabia. Winter has more moderate temperatures for performing rituals, especially outdoors.

You can complete Umrah in around 6-10 days including travel. It is busiest during Ramadan, so going before or after that period is best for avoiding large crowds.

Estimating the Total Costs

The total costs for Umrah from Pakistan vary greatly based on factors like mode of travel, accommodation preferences, and season. On average, the total expenses for one person can range from Rs. 150,000 to Rs. 220,000.

Booking Flights to Jeddah

The starting point for Umrah is Jeddah in Saudi Arabia, where the airport is located nearest to Makkah. Direct flights are available from major Pakistani cities like Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Karachi. Airlines like PIA, Saudi Airlines, Turkish Airlines and private carriers operate flights.

Book tickets 4-6 months in advance for best rates. One-way airfare can range from Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 60,000 per person depending on airline, season, and class.

Arranging Accommodation

It is mandatory to arrange accommodation before applying for an Umrah visa. There are ample hotel and apartment options available near the Grand Mosque in Makkah and Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.

Budget single rooms start from Rs. 1,500 per night. Browse listings and compare location, pricing, and amenities. Sharing rooms reduces individual costs for accommodation.

Transportation from Jeddah Airport

You can take a taxi, airport shuttle bus, or public bus to reach Makkah from Jeddah airport. Taxis cost around Rs. 3,500 one way. Buses are the cheapest option at Rs. 125 per person.

Many hotels also offer airport pickup and drop-off for a fee. This organized transfer provides convenience upon arrival.

Visa Requirements

To apply for an Umrah visa, you will need:

• Original valid passport with at least 6 months of validity
• Complete the visa application form
• Confirmed return tickets
• Proof of accommodation in Saudi Arabia
• 5 Passport size photographs
• Vaccination certificate
• PCR test for COVID-19 in some cases

Processing fees are included in tour packages or around Rs. 8,000 if applying solo. The process takes 7-10 working days.

Health and Vaccinations

Apart from the seasonal flu vaccine, other recommended vaccinations are:

• COVID-19
• Meningitis
• Polio
• Tetanus
• Typhoid
• Hepatitis A

Carry prescription medicines, eyewear, medical reports etc. A health certificate from your doctor may be required.

Ihram and Items to Pack

Ihram, comprising of two white unstitched cloth sheets, must be worn during the Umrah ritual. Apart from regular clothes and toiletries, also carry:

• Comfortable slippers and shoes
• Wadu soaps, lotas
• Extra ihram sheet
• Unscented wipes, tissues, masks
• Sun protection like umbrellas, hats
• Pain relief balms, medicines
• Tasbeehs, Quran, dhikr beads

Arriving in Saudi Arabia

Once you land at Jeddah airport, clear immigration, collect baggage and meet your tour operator representative or arrange your transportation to Makkah. Freshen up before going to Masjid Al-Haram for the initial rituals.

It is recommended to pay respects at Jannat Al Baqi cemetery before starting Umrah. However, with limited time, proceed directly to the Grand Mosque.

Performing the Rituals

Upon entering Masjid Al-Haram, make niyyah for Umrah and recite Talbiyah. Start by doing tawaf, walking seven circles around the Kaaba in a counter-clockwise direction.

Next, perform saree by brisk walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah. This follows Hajar’s footsteps as she searches for water for infant Ismail.

Complete the ritual by trimming hair short or shaving the head completely. This symbolizes exiting the state of Ihram after successfully completing Umrah.

Spend the remaining days engrossing yourself in prayers, reading Quran, and partaking in ziarat to Medina if time permits. Follow the sunnah for a rewarding and memorable journey.

In a Nutshell

With research, preparation, and purity of intention, your Umrah from Pakistan will be immensely fulfilling. Stay organized by planning travel and bookings well in advance. Stick to the teachings of the Prophet (PBUH) for maximum blessings. This once-in-a-lifetime journey will surely strengthen your faith and connection with the Almighty.