Pilgrimage Requirements

 

  • Machine-readable passport with a validity of a minimum of 6 months from the date of return advertised. A proof of address dated within 3 months of the application.
  • One passport-sized photograph taken on a white background.
  • Copy of ACWY meningitis vaccination certificate.
  • EU passport holders should provide an original utility bill or bank statement, dated within the last 30 days of when the application for a visa is to be made.
  • Foreign passport holders must provide an original UK residence visa or permit with a minimum of six months validity from the date of return advertised.
  • All the documents from the list above must be handed in at least 45 days before the date of departure

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you accompany the group from the UK and elsewhere?

Yes, we do. Our highly experienced team will accompany the group at all times. All of us have performed Hajj and Umrah over many years. We also have a Saudi team that joins us on arrival.

Can you provide a wheelchair assistance?
Yes.  However, the pilgrim will have to pay for the service in Makkah, Madinah, Minna and at every point of use. It costs between 600-950 Riyals per use, during peak periods.

How do I make my reservations?
We require a completed booking form by the lead passenger.  The documents listed above and a non-refundable deposit of 50% of the advertised rate per client.

Can I pay in instalments?
Yes. A non-refundable deposit of 50% of the advertised rate per person is required at the time of booking. Thereafter, regular monthly payment, until the balance is cleared within  4-6 weeks before departure.

I do not have a British passport – Will I get a Visa for Hajj/Umrah?
Yes. Non-British passport holders can obtain a visa to perform Hajj/Umrah from the UK if they are either on a resident or work permit, spouse or student visa; tourist, or hold a passport with limited or indefinite leave to remain stamped on it. This must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel. Please call us for visa arrangements for your country of residence.

Do you provide religious guidance?
Yes. One of our greatest strengths is that we offer personalised and extensive guidance before and throughout Hajj/Umrah – this is second to none! From the time your booking is confirmed, we will continue to provide you with information, updates and recommended reading and audio lists. A few weeks before departure, we would arrange a dedicated conference on fiqh, which will cover all the essentials of Hajj and Umrah. Also, two weeks before departure for hajj, we would organise a seminar at a convenient venue, where we would have another opportunity to meet in person, and have further opportunities to clarify other aspects of the pilgrimage.

Are your packages as advertised?
Yes. It should be noted that all the hotels in KSA are “star-graded” by the Ministry of Tourism. They are the KSA’s regulatory body.

What are the hotel Services and amenities?
The services and quality of the hotels compare very well to international standards and ratings. For example, some have swimming pools, cinemas, casinos or other leisure activities. However, the essence of pilgrimage is not to go on holiday and sightseeing. It is an absolute ibadah to Allah following the sunnah of Mohammed (Sollalahu Alehi wa salam).

What are the room types?
The room occupancy during the hajj/Umrah by the hotels is maximised using extra beds. These could be combinations of king-size, double and single. This is at the discretion of the hotels, and we have no say in the decision.

Where can I exchange my money for Saudi riyals?
There are many money exchange service providers within the vicinity of all our hotels, as well as close to Haram in Makkah and Madinah. There are also ATMs located everywhere around the hotels. Please check service charges for using those ATMs with your bank before departure. All major cards are accepted.

What if I fall sick?
The KSA provides medical services for urgent care to pilgrims. If you need to go to the hospital, you will be treated for free. However, please bring along your existing medications and prescriptions.

How are men and women accommodated in Minna?
Men and women stay in separate tents in Minna. Both tents are adjacent to each other for easy coordination.

Can I stay with my wife/husband or family in the same hotel room?
Yes. Please contact us for the arrangement and other extra charges involved.

Will I be able to contact my wife/ husband in Minna?
Yes and certainly

What interpretation of Islam will you adopt?
You will be guided throughout the pilgrimage according to the Quran and Sunnah.

How do I arrange to bring Zamzam back to my destination?

Zamzam is sold for 15SR at the airport upon departure. However, you are entitled to only 5 litres, which is not included in your luggage allowance.

Do you provide travel insurance?
Yes, but for emergency hospital treatment while in Saudi ONLY. Pilgrims are advised to shop around for travel insurance that meets their specific needs. 

What happens if the date of Hajj changes due to moon sighting?
Our itineraries have been set according to the official Saudi calendar. However, if due to the actual sighting of the moon, the day is adjusted, we have no control over it; and would have to adjust all programmes accordingly. We cannot prepare for this in advance, but will do our utmost to make alternative suitable arrangements.

What is the last date for booking?
We do not have a published deadline for bookings, because our capacity is limited. Once we sell all the seats for a particular package, we will not be able to accept any further bookings. All our packages are very popular and sell very quickly. We, therefore, recommend that you book as soon as possible.

Where are your tents in Minna?
We reside in the international pilgrims’ tents. These are used by most groups from the UK, Europe and the Americas. We also offer VIP services including sofa beds, AC units, packaged food, gypsum board tents, and a 24-hour hot/cold drinks supply to all our clients.

How do I get my clothes washed?
Many laundrettes near the Haramayn in Makkah and Madinah will wash and iron your clothes at variable costs; usually within 48-72 hours. Please ask us on arrival or at the hotel reception. The 5-star hotels provide this service for their guests, but it could be considerably more expensive. This service is NOT included in any of our packages.

How much does a meal cost?
An average meal is between 60-120 riyals during peak periods.

Caveat: Please note that this list is not exhaustive. It is meant to be a guide only.