What is Umrah?The Umrah pilgrimage is a non-mandatory pilgrimage made by Muslims to Mecca which is performed at any time of the year except the Hajj season.
There are many series of ritual acts performed symbolic to the lives of Prophet Abraham and his wife which can be completed in a matter of hours. Umrah holds a huge reward and value in Islam. It is an act of spiritual purity for the Muslims who want to perform it to earn the pleasure of God.
During Umrah, pilgrims adorn a unified and simple form of garment consisting of two white sheets called the ihram. Many Muslims on Umrah visit the city of Medina to see Prophet Muhammad's mosque 'Al-Masjid An-Nabawi' and the tomb where he rests in.
How to get to UmrahMost pilgrims fly to the closest airport to Mecca which is the King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah. However, some pilgrims may first want to fly to the city of Medina, Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport (MED). Many airlines operate additional services to Jeddah and Medina.
King Abdulaziz International Airport in total has three terminals. How can Hajj affect my Umrah at that time of the year?Hajj does have an effect on Umrah as you can't travel or get a visa from the Saudi embassy for Umrah in the Hajj season. This year the Hajj travel season starts from July and ends on the August were visas can be acquired for Umrah thereafter.
Do I need a visa for travel to Saudi Arabia during Umrah?Visas are free for those travelling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah. Visas are given out throughout the year. To apply for a visa you must fill out an application form. Application forms are available to collect from your nearest Saudi embassy or consulate. Umrah Visa Requirements
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