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. Planning this sacred journey requires meticulous preparation, and this guide will assist you in having a smooth and fulfilling Hajj experience in 2025.
Planning Your Pilgrimage: A Step-by-Step Approach
The Hajj journey demands careful planning. 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) and 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.
Vaccinations: Get necessary vaccinations well in advance.
Medications: Carry sufficient medication and 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: Move around periodically during long journeys.
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: 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 include King Khalid International Airport (RUH), King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED), King Fahd International Airport (DMM), and Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED). Utilize luggage carts and airport staff.
Hajj campaigns usually arrange airport transfers to Mecca. You are responsible for your baggage. Report lost baggage before leaving the arrivals hall.
What to Pack and What to Leave Behind
- Essentials to Pack: Official documents, medications, wallet, clothing for after Ihram, comfortable shoes, Ihram clothing, phone and charger, Quran or reading material.
- Items to Avoid: Perishable food, items violating Islamic culture, unpackaged medicines and supplements, electronic cigarettes.
- Baggage Guidelines: Check with your airline for baggage specifications.
Transportation in the Kingdom
Transportation options include airports, buses, trains, rental cars, and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem. The Haramain High-Speed Rail is a convenient option for travel between cities.
Conclusion
With thorough preparation and by following these guidelines, your Hajj journey in 2025 will be a blessed and spiritually enriching experience. May your pilgrimage be accepted and your prayers answered.
