Umrah Procedure
Introduction
At Aashique Rasul Travel & Services, our goal is to ensure that your Umrah pilgrimage is spiritually fulfilling, comfortable, and worry-free. To help you prepare for this important journey, we have outlined a step-by-step guide that includes all the requirements, procedures, and key information.
Umrah Requirements
Before you embark on your Umrah journey, the following requirements must be met:
- Passport Validity: Pilgrims must have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure.
- Visa Application: A valid Umrah visa is required. We will assist you in securing the visa.
- Vaccinations: You must be vaccinated for COVID-19 and receive meningitis and flu jabs. Ensure that you carry your vaccination certificates.
- Travel Insurance: It is mandatory to have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, cancellations, and personal belongings.
- Personal Documents: Pilgrims must submit copies of their passport, marriage certificate (if traveling with a spouse), vaccination certificates, and two recent passport-size photographs (white background, 4.5cm x 3.5cm).
- Deposit: A deposit of SGD$2000 is required upon booking confirmation. The remaining balance must be paid 30 days prior to departure.
How Aashique Rasul Travel & Services Works
Step 1 : Initial Inquiry & Package Selection
- Contact us through our website, phone, or in-person consultation to discuss your travel needs.
- We offer a variety of Umrah packages, allowing you to choose one that suits your schedule, budget, and preferences (e.g., double, triple, or quad-sharing accommodations).
- Once you select a package, we will provide you with a detailed itinerary and package inclusions, including flights, accommodation, meals, and transportation.
Step 2: Confirmation & Deposit
- To confirm your booking, a deposit of SGD$2000 must be paid. You can pay via bank transfer, credit card, or online payment gateway.
- After receiving your deposit, we will secure your hotel reservations, transportation, and other services.
Step 3: Document Submission & Visa Application
- Submit all necessary documents, including passport copies, photographs, and vaccination certificates. We will guide you on the exact requirements.
- We will process your Umrah visa application. This can take up to 2 weeks, so ensure that all documents are submitted in a timely manner.
Step 4: Pre-Departure Preparations
- You will receive a pre-departure guide, including a checklist of necessary items to bring, and information about the religious rituals of Umrah.
- Attend our Umrah Preparation Seminars (online or in person), where we provide practical Umrah lessons in English and Tamil.
- Final payment for the package is due 30 days before the departure date.
Step 5: Departure
- We will confirm your flight details and provide you with your tickets, hotel vouchers, and transportation details.
- Pilgrims are required to reconfirm their flights at least 72 hours before departure.
- Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, our dedicated team will meet you and guide you through immigration, airport transfer, and check-in at your hotel.
Processing Procedure: Step-by-Step
Umrah Visa Procedure
- Once you submit your documents, we forward them to our Umrah specialists for review.
- The visa application process takes up to 14 days, and we will keep you updated on the progress.
- Your visa will be issued once all accommodations and transport arrangements have been finalized.
- In case of visa delays or issues, we provide full support and alternative solutions.
Flight and Hotel Arrangements
- We arrange flights and accommodation based on the selected package. For Makkah, we generally book Swissotel Al Maqam or similar, and for Madinah, Nozol Royal Inn or similar.
- You will be provided with comfortable accommodations near the Haram in both Makkah and Madinah to ensure easy access to religious sites.
Transportation
- Our Umrah packages include private, air-conditioned transportation between airports, hotels, and key religious sites for your convenience.
- We also organize transportation for Ziarah tours in both Makkah (Jabal al-Nur, Jabal al-Rahmah, Muzdalifah, Arafah) and Madinah (Masjid Quba, Jannat-ul-Baqi, Uhud).
Guided Tours and Support
- Throughout the Umrah journey, you will be accompanied by experienced Mutawwif guides who will assist you in performing Umrah rituals.
- We schedule spiritual gatherings (Majlis) in Makkah and Madinah to enhance your spiritual experience.
- Our guides are available 24/7 for any assistance during your stay in Saudi Arabia.
Instructions
Dress Code & Etiquette
- For men, Ihram is mandatory during Umrah rituals. We recommend purchasing Ihram clothing beforehand, though it is also available in Saudi Arabia.
- For women, loose-fitting modest clothing that covers the entire body is required, along with a headscarf.
- During your pilgrimage, we encourage you to maintain a high level of spirituality and respect the local customs and traditions of the holy cities.
Packing Essentials
- Travel Documents: Ensure you have your passport, visa, flight tickets, hotel vouchers, and a copy of your travel insurance.
- Prayer Essentials: Bring your prayer mat, tasbeeh (prayer beads), and a small Qur’an.
- Medication & Toiletries: Carry basic medications, such as pain relievers, personal hygiene items, and unscented toiletries (which are required during Ihram).
- Comfortable Footwear: Bring comfortable, slip-on shoes or sandals for walking between holy sites.
- Food: Though meals are provided, you may want to bring snacks for the journey.
Communication & Support
- Pilgrims are encouraged to wear their security pass, which contains hotel details and emergency contact numbers.
- We provide 24/7 customer support for any emergencies or inquiries during your stay.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations are subject to the terms and conditions of airlines, hotels, and service providers. We will provide assistance in case of any cancellations or changes to the itinerary.
- Please note that refunds for flights or hotels may incur cancellation fees, depending on the timing of the request.
Post-Umrah Experience
- After completing Umrah, pilgrims may wish to donate items (wheelchairs, food, or Qur’ans) to those in need, and we can assist in organizing these acts of charity.
- We also provide options for Qurban sacrifices (goat, cow, or camel) in Makkah and Madinah, which can be pre-arranged through our service.