Planning to perform Umrah from Pakistan? Discover a detailed, step-by-step guide for U.S. and Pakistani audiences on Umrah visa process, cost, travel tips, rituals, and preparations for a smooth spiritual journey to Makkah.
What is Umrah?
Umrah is a non-mandatory Islamic pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah that can be performed at any time of the year. Unlike Hajj, which has fixed dates, Umrah is a spiritual journey that involves specific rituals performed in Masjid al-Haram, including Tawaf (circumambulation) and Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah).
Key Differences Between Hajj and Umrah
| Feature | Hajj | Umrah |
|---|---|---|
| Obligation | Mandatory once in life | Optional but recommended |
| Time | Specific days in Dhul-Hijjah | Anytime throughout the year |
| Duration | 5–6 days | A few hours to 1 day |
| Restrictions | Limited quota | No quota |
Step-by-Step Guide to Perform Umrah from Pakistan
Step 1: Understand the Requirements for Umrah
- A valid Pakistani passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- At least two blank visa pages
- Recent passport-sized photographs with white background
- Polio and COVID-19 vaccination certificates
- Women under 45 must travel with a Mahram (guardian)
- Children can accompany parents if listed on the visa
Step 2: Choose an Authorized Umrah Travel Agent
Only Saudi-authorized travel agencies can process Umrah visas. Look for agents approved by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Saudi Arabia. These agents usually offer packages that include:
- Visa processing
- Airline tickets
- Hotel booking in Makkah and Madinah
- Local transportation in Saudi Arabia
- Ziyarat (visits to religious sites)
Step 3: Apply for the Umrah Visa
- Processing time: 5 to 7 working days
- Validity: 90 days from issue date
- Duration of stay: up to 30 days
- You can also apply for an e-Umrah visa through a licensed travel agent
Visit the official Saudi Visa portal:
https://visa.visitsaudi.com
Step 4: Book Flights from Pakistan to Saudi Arabia
- Popular airlines: PIA, Saudia, Airblue, SereneAir
- Direct flights are available from major cities (Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad)
- Land in Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International Airport) or Madinah (Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport)
Step 5: Accommodation Arrangements
- Choose accommodation based on your budget and proximity to Masjid al-Haram or Masjid al-Nabawi
- 3-star, 4-star, and 5-star hotels are widely available
- Always confirm hotel bookings in advance to avoid last-minute issues
Step 6: Learn the Umrah Rituals
Before Entering Makkah
- Change into Ihram at the Miqat (designated station)
- Make Niyyah (intention) for Umrah
- Recite the Talbiyah: Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik…
Upon Arrival at Masjid al-Haram
- Tawaf – Circumambulate the Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction.
- Salat al-Tawaf – Pray two rakats after completing Tawaf.
- Sa’i – Walk seven times between Safa and Marwah hills.
- Halq or Taqsir – Men either shave (Halq) or trim (Taqsir) hair. Women cut a small portion of hair.
Your Umrah is now complete.
Estimated Cost of Performing Umrah from Pakistan
| Item | Estimated Cost (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Umrah Visa | 20,000 – 30,000 |
| Return Flight (Economy) | 90,000 – 160,000 |
| Accommodation (7 days) | 50,000 – 200,000 |
| Local Transportation | 10,000 – 30,000 |
| Food & Miscellaneous | 15,000 – 30,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 185,000 – 450,000 PKR |
Prices may vary based on season, hotel class, and services.
Important Tips for Umrah Travelers
- Keep photocopies of all documents
- Carry basic medication and prescriptions
- Avoid large crowds and stay hydrated
- Use official Zamzam water bottles
- Respect local customs and rules
- Women should dress modestly and wear abaya
- Avoid unnecessary gatherings during peak rituals
Documents Checklist
- Valid Passport with 6 months validity
- Umrah Visa
- CNIC Copy
- Passport-size photos (4–6 copies)
- Air Ticket
- Hotel Booking confirmation
- Vaccination certificates (COVID-19 and Polio)
- Ihram (for men) and necessary garments for women
Popular Ziyarat Places in Makkah and Madinah
In Makkah:
- Jabal al-Noor
- Mina
- Muzdalifah
- Jabal-e-Rahmah
- Cave of Thawr
In Madinah:
- Masjid al-Nabawi
- Jannat al-Baqi
- Quba Mosque
- Qiblatain Mosque
- Uhud Mountain
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the ideal time to perform Umrah?
Umrah can be performed anytime, but off-peak seasons like Shawwal to Muharram are less crowded.
Can I perform Umrah without a travel agent?
No, Pakistani citizens must go through authorized Umrah agents approved by Saudi authorities.
Is a COVID-19 vaccine required for Umrah?
Yes, a full COVID-19 vaccination is mandatory, along with a polio certificate.
Can women perform Umrah without a Mahram?
Women under 45 must have a Mahram; women 45 and older can go in groups with permission.
How long can I stay in Saudi Arabia on an Umrah visa?
You can stay up to 30 days from the date of entry.
Is it mandatory to visit Madinah during Umrah?
No, but it is highly recommended to visit Masjid al-Nabawi and other holy sites.
Can children perform Umrah?
Yes, children of any age can perform Umrah if they are included on their parents’ visa.
Do I need a new passport if mine has less than 6 months validity?
Yes, your passport must have at least six months validity at the time of visa application.
Are there group Umrah packages available?
Yes, many travel agents offer group packages with cost savings and guided tours.
Can I perform multiple Umrahs in one trip?
Yes, you can perform more than one Umrah, but it requires leaving Makkah and re-entering with a new intention.
Can I carry Zamzam water back to Pakistan?
Yes, travelers are allowed to carry one 5-liter bottle of Zamzam water per person.
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