“This is the cradle of civilizations, and the birthplace of the dawn of Islam. Here the Prophet – may God bless him and grant him peace – and his noble companions walked. Your coming to this land to perform the Hajj rituals and answer the call of Abraham – peace be upon him – is a purification, cleansing, and drawing closer to God for you. Live this journey with faith and tranquility; to enjoy the pleasure of obedience.”
These words encapsulate the profound spiritual significance of Hajj, a pilgrimage that calls Muslims to the heart of Islam. Planning this sacred journey requires meticulous preparation, and this guide serves as your companion for a smooth and fulfilling Hajj experience in 2025.
Planning Your Pilgrimage: A Step-by-Step Approach
The Hajj journey demands careful planning from all aspects. Begin by asking yourself these crucial questions:
- Companions and Timing: Who will I share this blessed journey with? When will I begin my Hajj?
- Essential Documents: What documents do I need? (ID, passport, ticket, Hajj permit, and visa)
- Travel by Car (If Applicable): Is my vehicle safe and suitable for international travel? Are its documents valid?
- Health Preparation: What health program should I follow? (Walking, exercise)
- Medications: What medications should I pack? How should I store them?
- Hajj Knowledge: How will I learn the rules and rituals of Hajj?
- Utilizing Services: How can I benefit from the services in the Holy Mosque and Holy Sites?
- Useful Apps: What apps will aid me during Hajj? (Quran, supplications, prayer times, maps)
Visa and Entry: The Nusuk Platform and Ports of Entry
The Saudi government has streamlined the visa application process through the Nusuk platform (https://www.nusuk.sa/). This platform allows pilgrims to easily apply for visas and book packages. It is your one-stop shop for all your Hajj needs.
After obtaining your visa and Hajj permit, you can enter the Kingdom through one of three ports: air, sea, or land. Arrive early, ideally at the beginning of Dhul-Hijjah, to allow ample time for preparation before the Hajj rituals begin.
Ihram and Customs Declarations: Important Considerations
If arriving by air, you can enter the state of Ihram before boarding or on the plane, reciting the Talbiyah upon passing the Miqat. For land or sea arrivals, enter Ihram at the Miqat.
Be prepared to submit a customs declaration disclosing any currencies, gold, precious metals, or negotiable instruments you possess.
Familiarize yourself with prohibited items, including large sums of money (over 60,000 riyals), gifts in commercial quantities (over 3,000 riyals), drugs, indecent materials, counterfeit currency, fireworks, chewing tobacco, weapons, lasers, electric shock devices, and eavesdropping devices.
Consult the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority website for a complete list.
Communication and Emergency Contacts
Obtain a local SIM card upon arrival. Saudi Arabia’s international code is 00966. Keep these emergency numbers handy:
- Police: 911 (Makkah, Riyadh, Eastern Province), 999 (rest of Kingdom)
- Ambulance: 997
- Civil Defense: 998
- Traffic Accidents: 993
- Road Safety: 996
- Border Guard: 994
- Ministry of Hajj and Umrah Customer Service: 966920002814
- Medical Consultations: 937
- Consumer Protection: 935
Health and Well-being: Prioritizing Your Physical Health
- Pre-Travel Consultation: Consult your doctor before traveling to ensure your fitness for Hajj.
- Vaccinations: Get necessary vaccinations well in advance. Check the Ministry of Health’s guide for requirements.
- Medications: Carry sufficient medication, especially for chronic conditions, along with a detailed medical report.
- Personal Care: Pack personal care items, comfortable clothing, and sunscreen.
- Medical Kit: Include wound sterilization tools, fever reducers, and pain relievers.
- Travel Comfort: If traveling long distances, move around periodically to prevent swelling.
- Diabetes Management: If diabetic, carry a glucose meter.
Health Guidelines in the Holy Sites
- Public Health: Maintain personal hygiene and follow public health guidelines.
- Electrical Safety: Avoid overloading electrical outlets.
- Respiratory Health: If you have a persistent cough, get tested. Practice respiratory etiquette.
- Hygiene Practices: Wash hands frequently. Avoid spitting.
- Waste Disposal: Dispose of trash properly.
- Clothing Hygiene: Change clothes regularly.
- Oral Hygiene: Maintain oral hygiene.
- Mask Usage: Wear masks in crowded areas.
- Heat Safety: Protect yourself from heat exhaustion and sunstroke.
Airport Procedures and Baggage Handling
Major airports in Saudi Arabia include King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh, King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah, King Fahd International Airport (DMM) in Dammam, and Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) in Medina.
Utilize luggage carts and airport staff for assistance. Hajj campaigns typically arrange transportation from the airport to Mecca.
Passengers are responsible for their baggage. If your baggage is lost, contact the baggage service staff before leaving the arrivals hall. Provide them with your contact information and baggage claim file.
The airline is not responsible for items left on board.
What to Pack and What to Leave Behind
Essentials to Pack:
- Official documents (passport, vaccination certificates, permits)
- Medications with prescriptions and medical report
- Wallet with cards and cash
- Clothing for after Ihram
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Ihram clothing
- Mobile phone and charger
- Quran or reading material
Items to Avoid:
- Perishable food
- Items violating Islamic culture (alcohol, gambling tools)
- Unpackaged medicines and supplements
- Electronic cigarettes and accessories
Baggage Guidelines:
Check with your airline for baggage specifications and sizes. Ensure your luggage is properly packed and sealed.
Transportation in the Kingdom
Saudi Arabia offers various transportation options, including airports, buses, trains, rental cars, and ride-hailing apps.
Car Rental: You can rent a car at the airport. Rental agencies accept cash and credit cards and offer insurance.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Apps like Uber and Careem are readily available.
Trains: The Haramain High-Speed Rail connects major cities and is a convenient option for travel between Mecca and Medina.
Conclusion
With thorough preparation and by following the guidelines outlined in this guide, your Hajj journey in 2025 will be a blessed and spiritually enriching experience. May your pilgrimage be accepted and your prayers answered.
