Your first Umrah can feel like a lot to organise, because there are visas, vaccinations, flights, a new country and a sacred rite you want to get right. The truth is that it all fits into a simple order. Work through this checklist from top to bottom and nothing will catch you by surprise.
1. Decide the basics
- Pick your dates and length. How much time can you take, and do you want a particular season or Ramadan? See how many days you need for Umrah and the best time to go.
- Set a budget. Understand what Umrah really costs from the USA so the price you are quoted makes sense.
- Choose how you travel. A group departure or a private trip, and Makkah or Madinah first. Our guide to Makkah first or Madinah first helps.
2. Choose a trustworthy agency
This is the decision everything else rests on. Before you pay a deposit, run through the questions and warning signs in our guide on how to choose an Umrah agency. Insist on named hotels, a written quote and the option to pay by card.
3. Sort your documents
- Passport. Valid for at least six months, with blank pages.
- Visa. You can perform Umrah on a tourist visa or a dedicated Umrah visa. See Umrah on a tourist visa and the Umrah visa from the USA. On a package, we apply for this for you.
- Meningitis vaccination. Saudi Arabia requires a meningitis (ACWY) certificate. Details are in our meningitis vaccine guide.
- Travel insurance. Strongly recommended, covering medical care, cancellation and supplier failure.
4. Learn the rite
You do not need to be a scholar, but you should arrive knowing the steps. Read our plain step by step guide to performing Umrah, learn the simple rules of ihram, and keep a small dua book or app on your phone. On our trips, a preparation call before you fly walks you through it.
5. Set up the Nusuk app
Download the Nusuk app before you travel. You use it to book your free, timed Rawdah visit in Madinah, and in busy seasons to book an Umrah permit. Book your Rawdah slot early, as they fill quickly.
6. Pack well
- Two sets of ihram for men, modest clothing for everyone, and comfortable sandals.
- The essentials people forget are in our Umrah packing list, and the things to leave at home are in what not to pack.
- A sun umbrella, a refillable water bottle and a small bag for your shoes at the mosque.
7. Plan money and your phone
- Decide how much spending money to bring and tell your bank you are travelling.
- Sort your connectivity. Our guide to using your US phone in Saudi Arabia covers SIMs, eSIMs and roaming.
8. Look after your health
- Start walking now. You will be on your feet far more than usual, so a little fitness helps.
- Pack any regular medicines in your hand luggage with a copy of the prescription.
- Our tips on how to avoid getting sick on Umrah are worth a read before you go.
9. Know your arrival
Read what happens when you land and how you reach your hotel in getting from the airport to your hotel. On our group trips, someone meets you after immigration, so there is nothing to work out while you are tired.
10. Prepare your heart
The paperwork matters, but this is the part that lasts. Make a sincere intention, seek forgiveness, settle any debts or disputes you can, and go with an open heart. The journey is an answer to a call. Everything on this list is simply there to let you focus on that.
Feeling ready, or want a hand with it all? Request a quote and we will guide you through every step, from the visa to the moment you see the Kaaba.
