Umrah process and required documents for pakistanis

Umrah process and required documents for pakistanis

Umrah is a pilgrimage to Mecca that can be performed at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which has specific dates. While Umrah is not obligatory like Hajj, it is a highly recommended act of worship in Islam. If you are a Pakistani citizen and wish to perform Umrah, here is the step-by-step process, including the required documents.

Umrah Process for Pakistani Citizens

1. Application and Registration

• Choose a Package: Pakistani citizens can perform Umrah either through:
  • Private Hajj/Umrah Travel Agencies: There are many travel agencies offering Umrah packages. They typically provide flight bookings, visa services, accommodation, transportation, and other related services.
  • Government-Approved Operators: Some people prefer booking through official government channels, as these packages may be more affordable and come with proper guidance.
• Booking: You will need to select a package based on your budget, travel dates, and accommodation preferences. Travel agencies will offer different types of packages, including luxury and budget options.

2. Visa Application

• Umrah Visa: Once you’ve chosen your package and made the necessary payment, the travel agency will arrange the Umrah visa for you. The visa process for Umrah is handled through the Saudi Arabian Embassyin Pakistan.
  • Umrah visas are only valid for 30 daysand are typically issued for a single entry into Saudi Arabia.
  • The visa is processed online, and you must have valid travel insurance, accommodation bookings, and confirmed flight details.

3. Booking Flights

• Flights: Most travel agencies handle flight bookings as part of the package, but if you book independently, you will need to book a flight to either Jeddahor Medina, as these are the two main entry points for Umrah pilgrims.
  • Jeddahis the most common arrival airport for Umrah pilgrims heading to Makkah.
  • Medinais a good choice for pilgrims who plan to visit the Prophet’s Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi) before going to Makkah.

4. Medical and Health Requirements

• Vaccination: The Saudi government requires pilgrims to be vaccinated against certain diseases before performing Umrah:
  • Meningococcal Vaccine (ACWY): This vaccine is mandatory for all pilgrims, including Umrah performers.
  • COVID-19 Vaccination: Depending on the situation at the time of travel, COVID-19 vaccination may also be required.
  • Seasonal Flu: In some cases, flu vaccines may also be recommended or required.

5. Preparing for Travel

• Packing: You will need to pack appropriate clothing, including:
  • Ihram: The special white attire worn by men during Umrah. Women can wear simple, modest clothing covering their body.
  • Personal Items: Such as toiletries, medicines, and any essentials you may need during your stay in Saudi Arabia.
• Health Precautions: It’s important to ensure you have enough medication if needed. Carry a small first aid kit, especially if you’re traveling with elderly family members or children.

6. Performing Umrah

• Ihram: Before entering the holy cities of Makkahor Medina, male pilgrims must wear Ihram (the white seamless garment). Women wear modest, non-attractive clothing.
  • Tawaf: The first act of worship upon reaching the Kaabain Makkah is performing Tawaf, which involves walking around the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction.
  • Sa’i: After Tawaf, pilgrims perform Sa’i, which involves walking between the hills of Safa and Marwahseven times.
  • Shaving or Trimming Hair: Men will either shave their heads or trim their hair, while women will trim a small portion of their hair.
  • Prayers and Duas: Throughout the Umrah, pilgrims engage in prayers and supplications.

7. Visit Medina (Optional)

After performing Umrah in Makkah, many pilgrims visit Medina to offer prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi). This visit is not compulsory but is highly recommended.

8. Return

Once the pilgrimage is completed, pilgrims return to Pakistan. Travel agencies generally assist with the return flight, ensuring that all logistical needs are met.

Required Documents for Pakistani Citizens to Apply for Umrah

Here is a list of the documents required to apply for Umrah from Pakistan:

1. Passport

• A valid passportwith at least 6 months validity from the date of intended travel.

2. Passport-Sized Photographs

• Usually 4-6 recent passport-sized photographs(with a white background) are required for the visa application and travel documents.

3. National Identity Card (CNIC)

• A copy of your Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC). For minors, a B-Formmay be required.

4. Umrah Visa Application

• Umrah Visa Form: The official visa form, which will be provided by your travel agency.

5. Vaccination Certificate

• A Meningococcal Vaccinecertificate (ACWY) is required to show that you are vaccinated against meningitis.
• COVID-19 Vaccine Certificate: Depending on the travel situation, COVID-19 vaccination proof may be necessary.

6. Flight Details

• Flight Confirmation: You must provide your flight tickets, which are usually included in the travel package. If booked independently, a copy of your flight booking is required.

7. Hotel Booking

• Accommodation Confirmation: You will need to provide proof of your hotel bookingsin Makkah and Medina. The travel agency typically arranges accommodation, but independent travelers will need to make these arrangements themselves.

8. Travel Insurance

• Travel Insurance: Some travel agencies include travel insurance as part of their package, but if you’re booking independently, you may need to get insurance that covers health, accidents, and emergency evacuation.

9. Bank Statement (if required)

• Some travel agencies may require you to submit a bank statementto prove you have sufficient funds to cover your travel and accommodation costs.

10. Medical Certificate (if required)

• Medical Fitness Certificate: If you are elderly or have underlying health conditions, a medical certificate from a doctor confirming you are fit to perform Umrah may be required.

11. Guardian Consent (for Minors)

• If you are traveling with a child or minor, you will need to provide a guardian consent letteror a birth certificate to show the relationship between the child and the accompanying adult.

Umrah Costs for Pakistani Citizens

• The cost of performing Umrah varies depending on the package you choose. On average:
  • Budget Packages: Starting from PKR 100,000 to PKR 150,000(excluding flights).
  • Standard Packages: PKR 150,000 to PKR 250,000.
  • Luxury Packages: PKR 250,000 to PKR 500,000or more.

The total cost will include flight tickets, accommodation, transportation, visa fees, and insurance.