Umrah questions and answers

Umrah is the minor pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at any time of the year. Unlike Hajj it is not obligatory, but it brings great spiritual reward.

Umrah can be performed all year round except during the Hajj period. Many prefer the off-season — spring, autumn or winter — when the weather is more comfortable.

An Umrah trip usually takes 7 to 14 days, including visits to Makkah and Madinah. The duration depends on the tour.

Citizens of Kyrgyzstan need: • A passport valid for at least 6 months; • An Umrah visa (arranged through the agency); • Medical insurance; • A meningitis vaccination certificate.

Yes, a special Umrah visa is required. It can be arranged through accredited agencies or online through the Nusuk platform.

The price depends on the season, hotel level and tour length. On average prices start from 1,200–2,000 US dollars per person.

• Ihram (for men), comfortable modest clothing (for women); • Sandals, a hat, a first-aid kit; • A prayer mat, prayer beads, a dua book; • Cash in dollars or riyals.

The main steps: 1. Intention (niyyah) at the Miqat. 2. Tawaf — seven circuits around the Kaaba. 3. Sa'i — walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa. 4. Cutting the hair — a short cut for men, trimming the ends for women.

• Men: Ihram — two seamless white cloths. • Women: Loose clothing that covers the whole body, without bright colours.

Pilgrims usually stay in hotels next to Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and the Prophet's Mosque (al-Masjid an-Nabawi) in Madinah.

• Dress lightly and wear comfortable shoes. • Drink plenty of water. • Do not overexert yourself, especially during Tawaf and Sa'i. • Rest at the hotel between prayers.

Yes, Umrah with children is allowed, but keep their comfort in mind, especially in high temperatures and large crowds.

In big cities most people understand English, but a few basic Arabic phrases help a lot.

We recommend 300 to 1,000 US dollars depending on your spending on food, shopping and souvenirs.

• Purify your intention and make tawbah (repentance). • Learn the order of the rites. • Read more Quran, make dhikr and dua. 🤲 May your pilgrimage be easy, safe and blessed!