Millions of Muslims from all over the globe go to Islam’s holiest city, Mecca, Saudi Arabia, annually to perform the Hajj. More than 1.83 million pilgrims made the Hajj during the Hajj season 1445 AH. Strong Muslims are supposed to make the Hajj pilgrimage once in their lives, but only if it does not put a burden on their family when they are away. Pilgrims are aware that the pilgrimage is not only physically but also economically demanding. What should Muslims take care of when preparing for the Hajj?
Here, we advise you on how to prepare yourself financially, physically, and spiritually for Hajj. How do you budget your finances for the trip? How do you prepare yourself spiritually for the Hajj? Continue reading to learn more.
Prepare your finances for the Hajj.
Sufficient money to cover your expenses throughout the pilgrimage is included in Hajj preparation. Hajj costs are not straightforward. You must save money if you are flying outside Saudi Arabia to acquire yours.
Hajj visa
Obtain a Hajj visa and book your accommodation, transport, and flights. You cannot acquire a Saudi e-visa for Hajj but can acquire one for the lesser pilgrimage, Umrah. To receive a Hajj visa, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has licensed travel service providers, including travel agencies, to offer Hajj packages to pilgrims.
In such a case, the Saudi authorities may facilitate easier booking of their Hajj pilgrimage for pilgrims by streamlining, simplifying, and fast-tracking the release of Hajj visas.
Where you are from, the type of accommodation and means of travel you choose for your Hajj package, and even more, impact the bill. A travel package for the Hajj with visa price included could range anywhere. Depending on your circumstances, accumulating enough funds for the Hajj may take months or years. Researching and saving beforehand are the secrets to having sufficient funds for the pilgrimage.
Essential Considerations When Choosing a Hajj Package
When you are deciding on your Hajj package, it is critical to consider several things to facilitate a smooth and rewarding pilgrimage:
Solo or Group Travel
Selecting a group package is economical because costs like accommodation, transport, and direction are divided among pilgrims. Traveling in an organized group is also advantageous because you can enjoy the services of a Hajj guide who will guide you through the rituals. If you are traveling with your family, your cost might be higher due to extra food and private transport expenditures.
Level of Comfort
Hajj packages provide different accommodations, from affordable shared rooms to luxury hotels. Your personal choice will decide your level of comfort and privacy throughout the trip. Also, keep in mind the transportation mode between cities—whether you want the Hajj train, which is fast, or a domestic flight, a shared bus, or a personal vehicle.
Meals and Hydration
Good nutrition is also essential to keep one energized during the pilgrimage. Some hotels offer complete meal plans for easy food access. Nevertheless, one should also carry light snacks and drink water, particularly in the scorching heat.
Sacrificial Offering
Sacrificial offerings are traditionally performed during the Hajj. Some Hajj packages include this service, but if not yours, it can be arranged independently upon reaching Mecca. The price depends on the animal offered, such as a sheep or a cow. Travelers can contribute by sacrificing a larger animal to split the cost.
Considering all of these considerations, you can select a Hajj package that is affordably comfortable and spiritually enriching.
Innovative Methods of Saving for Hajj
After you have approximated how much money you will need for your Hajj pilgrimage, it is time to start planning how you will save. The following are some wise tips that will lead you to your savings destination:
Set a Budget and a Specific Savings Plan
Cutting back on spending and sticking to a tight budget might be difficult, but with restraint, you can save for Hajj without using your emergency or personal savings. You can have a special Hajj savings account and arrange regular transfers from your main account to contribute to your Hajj savings regularly.
Save Collectively with Family and Friends
Pooling resources with loved ones can make the financial burden more manageable. If traveling with family or friends, consider setting up a group savings plan where each member contributes regularly. Establish a deadline to ensure funds are distributed fairly among all participants before the pilgrimage.
Earn Extra Income with a Side Job
A side job can increase your savings and give you extra financial security. Either through freelance, part-time work or selling products or services, putting this money entirely into your Hajj fund will get you there sooner.
Prepare yourself physically for Hajj.
Hajj rituals can be physically exhausting, even for pilgrims who are active and in good physical shape. Consider Tawaf, where you must walk seven times counterclockwise around the Kaaba, or the cubic building draped in silk and cotton within the Grand Mosque in Mecca. There’s Sa’ay, too, where you must run or walk seven times between the Safa and Marwa hills.
You don’t have to work out at the gym to get into shape for Hajj. A simple physical activity, such as walking for 30 minutes a day for three months, can do wonders to build your stamina for the Hajj rites. The key is to do light exercise consistently for months before the pilgrimage to build up your strength and stamina.
Your diet will also change to keep you healthy for the Hajj. Months before the pilgrimage, include more vegetables and fruits in your diet.
Improving Your Spiritual Preparedness for Hajj
One of the most important things to do when preparing for Hajj is cultivating your spiritual attitude. A strong sense of devotion and awareness will make your pilgrimage more rewarding. You must also go into Hajj with patience and forgiveness, as arguments and disagreements are strictly prohibited on this holy journey.
If you are performing Hajj for the first time and are going in a group, it may be more convenient for you to take the cue from a seasoned Hajj guide to walk you through the rituals. Or, if you prefer to perform the rites yourself, studying a comprehensive Hajj guidebook will familiarize you with the procedure.
Keep performing Sunnah (optional) prayers, have a schedule of Athkar (remembrance of Allah), and increase your reading of the Qurʾān. Listening to learning sessions or lectures on Hajj, especially for those going for the first time, will also be immensely helpful.
Also, take some time to make genuine supplications and personal invocations for your dua. Reflect on your religious journey and what blessings, guidance, and forgiveness you want to request Allah during this sacred experience.
Essential Packing Guide for Hajj
After discussing financial, physical, and spiritual preparations for the Hajj, the next step is to discuss packing essentials. Consider saving this list as a guide for your travel.
Clothing for the Pilgrimage
Entering the sacred state requires specific attire. Men must wear seamless, unstitched garments consisting of an upper and lower wrap. Carrying a set in your hand luggage is advisable, as you’ll need to change upon reaching designated entry points. Always pack an extra set for convenience. Some accommodations provide laundry services if required.
For shoes, wear comfortable sandals or flip-flops. Store them within easy reach to switch into when necessary.
Medications
If you need prescription drugs, bring a sufficient supply to last the whole journey. Though there are pharmacies, it’s always wise to have your basic supplies with you in case of possible delays. Include common drugs like painkillers, stomach aids, antihistamines, and motion sickness pills.
Personal Care Items
After the sacred state, everyday toiletries such as deodorant, perfumed soap, and shampoo may be applied. Be sure to carry all the hygiene items required to keep yourself clean and comfortable.
Secure Storage for Valuables
A crossbody bag or waist pouch is convenient for storing personal belongings, mainly when dressed in specified clothing. Special travel packs meant for this pilgrimage provide additional security against theft.
Money
Bring sufficient cash for daily needs, such as food, water, and necessities. It is also advisable to use a bank card with a reasonable exchange rate.
Essential Travel Documents
Always keep your passport, visa, and vaccination cards handy.
Required Vaccinations
Meningitis: Document the recommended dose at least 10 days before arrival.
Polio: Visitors from high-risk areas are vaccinated 4 weeks to 12 months before entry.
Yellow Fever: This is mandatory for travelers arriving from infected areas. The certificate is practical 10 days after the vaccine and lasts for life.
Recommended Vaccinations
COVID-19: All visitors aged 12 years and older should be fully vaccinated using authorized vaccines.
Seasonal Flu: Strongly recommended, particularly for high-risk individuals like young children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions.
Mobile Connectivity
Bring an unlocked phone to utilize a local SIM card or an electronic SIM (eSIM) for uninterrupted communication.
By ensuring you possess these necessities, you can focus on your spiritual journey with a clear conscience.
In conclusion
Perhaps the most significant thing a Muslim can do is prepare for the Hajj pilgrimage. Because the rituals can be strenuous, one should ensure they prepare themselves financially for hajj tickets, physically, and spiritually.
Travel companies and other service providers are licensed by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to provide packages that include accommodation, transportation, and Hajj visas. Select the one that fits your budget and preference.