Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has released a comprehensive "Umrah and Visit Guide" in 16 languages, publishing it on its official website haj.gov.sa. The guide walks pilgrims through every stage of the journey, from pre-travel preparation to departure, and is designed to help them perform the rituals with ease and peace of mind.

The Ministry said the guide is one of its awareness products and will be developed continuously. Its stated aim is to raise awareness, strengthen commitment to regulatory procedures and enable pilgrims to complete their rituals calmly and correctly.

What the guide covers

The guide provides integrated, step-by-step instructions covering the full arc of the Umrah journey. According to the Ministry, this includes pre-travel preparation, visa procedures and entry requirements to the Kingdom, followed by Ihram and the performance of the rituals themselves.

It also details movement between the holy sites and the visit to Masjid an-Nabawi, the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah, along with guidance on departure. The content addresses timings, Ihram etiquette, Tawaf (circumambulation) and Sa'i (the walk between Safa and Marwah), and prayer within the Two Holy Mosques.

Beyond the rituals, the guide sets out regulatory instructions, health and preventive guidelines, contact numbers and the digital services a pilgrim or visitor may need during the trip. The Ministry noted that the rituals are presented in accordance with the Prophetic tradition.

Interactive maps and digital links

A central feature of the guide is its interactive format. It is built around a timeline that follows the pilgrim's journey step by step, allowing quick access to the information relevant to each stage.

The guide includes interactive maps, links to digital services and visual guidance content to help pilgrims perform the rituals and benefit from available services quickly. It also provides QR codes and direct links to official online platforms, so travellers can reach updated information and services on the move.

Available in 16 languages

The guide is offered in 16 languages, including Arabic, Urdu and English, widening access for the diverse community of pilgrims who travel to Makkah and Madinah each year. By covering the major languages spoken across the Muslim world, the Ministry aims to reduce confusion and help first-time visitors in particular.

The Ministry said the release reflects the Kingdom's continuing efforts to improve the quality of services provided to pilgrims and visitors. It framed the guide as part of a broader drive to keep pace with the growing number of people performing Umrah.

Practical tips for pilgrims

  • Read the guide before you travel. Reviewing the pre-travel and visa sections early helps avoid last-minute problems at the airport or on arrival.
  • Choose your language version. With 16 languages available, select the one you are most comfortable with to fully understand the ritual and regulatory instructions.
  • Save the QR codes and digital links. These connect directly to official platforms and updated information, which is useful once you are in the Kingdom.
  • Use the interactive maps. They can ease movement between the holy sites and the visit to the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah.
  • Follow the health and regulatory guidance. The guide includes preventive advice and contact numbers that can be valuable in an emergency.

Pilgrims can access the guide through the Ministry's official website and are encouraged to rely on official sources for the most current information.