Umrah gifts

After a friend or relative returns from Umrah, it is the custom to visit and congratulate them on completing Umrah. It’s also a nice idea to present them with a gift.

Pilgrims travelling may also wish to bring gifts from Makkah and Madinah for their loved ones at home.

As Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

There are no specific gifts to present to those who have returned from Umrah.

Find out more about gift ideas.

Difference between Hajj and Umrah

Whilst, both Umrah and Hajj involved the sacred sites in Makkah. there are notable differences, between the two:

• Obligation

Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage and is an optional act of worship. Hajj is one of the 5 pillars of Islam, and is obligatory for every able-bodied Muslim who has the financial means to undertake the journey.

• Time & Duration

Umrah can be performed at any time throughout the year, except for the days of Hajj and usually takes between 3-6 hours.

Hajj takes place during the specific days of Dhul Hijjah. from the 8th to 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah. When the new crescent moon is sighted, Eid al-Adha begins, which lasts for four days.

It is a longer pilgrimage that spans several days and involves various rituals and activities.

• Rituals

Hajj comprises a set of additional rituals. These include spending time in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah, performing specific prayers and supplications and stoning the pillars representing Shaytaan (Rami).

Find out more about the differences between Hajj and Umrah.

Umrah Checklist

We’ve put together a list of things to remember before going for Umrah:

• Book your flights and have your visa ready.
• Plan your travel thoroughly: If you are performing Umrah without using a travel agent/package provider, make sure you have thoroughly planned your trip, including transportation, hotels and sites you wish to visit in Makkah and Madinah.
• Vaccinations: Make sure you’re aware of any vaccinations required before your travel and book these at your GP surgery.
• Spiritual preparation: Make the intention for performing Umrah as a means of gaining Allah’s love. Sincerely ask Allah for forgiveness for past sins, with the intention of never returning to them. Also visit friends and family and ask them for forgiveness.
• Have your affairs in order: In order to be truly free to benefit from Umrah, pay any outstanding debts and make sure you have fulfilled your obligations, such as paying Zakat.
• Ensure you understand the process of performing Umrah, as well as the rules and obligations of doing so. You can find out more here.
• Physical preparation: Umrah can be physically demanding and can require considerable walking, particularly in Makkah. To prepare yourself, try and go for daily walks before your trip and incorporate exercise into your routine. Also ensure you eat a balanced diet incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables in order to build up your immune system before travelling.

Find out more about how to prepare and what to pack.