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Muslims around the world are aware that performing the rituals of Umrah is an obligation for those who are capable, and it is among the virtuous acts encouraged by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). However, performing Umrah in Ramadan carries a reward and merit different from performing it in other months of the year. The Prophet (PBUH), encouraged performing Umrah in the blessed month of Ramadan to attain rewards equivalent to performing Hajj with him.

Does Umrah in Ramadan differ from other months?

Umrah in Ramadan does not differ from Umrah in other months in terms of the rituals. However, it may differ in procedures and requirements depending on whether the pilgrim is a resident of Saudi Arabia or from another country intending to visit the Holy Kaaba and perform the Umrah rituals.
 

According to the official website of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Saudi citizens and residents are required to obtain Umrah permits and perform prayers in the Rawdah Al-Sharifah. This is done through pre-booking via the Manasik or Tawakkalna applications.

As for pilgrims coming from other countries, it is mandatory for them to obtain a visa allowing entry into Saudi Arabia and also allowing entry into Makkah. Umrah visas can be obtained through one of the following methods:
 

•        Manasik platform.
•        Saudi embassy or consulate in the pilgrim's country.
•        Tourist visa, which can be obtained either electronically or upon arrival for citizens of some countries.
•        Family visit visa.
   

Does the duration of Umrah in Ramadan differ from other months of the year?

There is no direct correlation between the month of Ramadan and an increase or decrease in the duration of Umrah. However, the time spent by pilgrims in performing the rituals may vary depending on the number of pilgrims and the congestion inside the Grand Mosque during Tawaf around the Kaaba or Sa'i between Safa and Marwah, or performing other rituals.

According to the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques (GPH), it takes approximately 39 minutes for a pilgrim to perform Tawaf around the Kaaba, in addition to approximately 42 minutes for Sa'i between Safa and Marwah. Moreover, it takes another 11 minutes to move from Tawaf to Sa'i. Consequently, the total time required for Umrah in Ramadan or any other month is approximately 92 minutes. It's worth considering personal and physical differences among pilgrims, and the time may extend in case of performing rituals during peak hours.

Tips for Pilgrims During Ramadan

When planning to perform Umrah during Ramadan, it's essential to follow various guidelines and tips. The importance of adhering to these guidelines increases when preparing for Umrah during Ramadan:
 

•        Plan Your Umrah: Planning the Umrah trip carefully is crucial, including selecting the appropriate time during the blessed month of Ramadan. Pilgrims should consider all details from the moment they leave home until their return after completing the journey.
•        Pack Personal Essentials: Pilgrims should ensure to pack a portable bag containing all personal and medical necessities. It's advisable to carry basic first aid supplies to address minor health issues like colds, diarrhea, or other minor health problems that may not require medical intervention.
•        Sun Protection: Protecting oneself from sun exposure during Umrah in Ramadan is crucial to avoid dehydration due to sweating. Pilgrims are advised to carry umbrellas or sunshades during times when the sun is intense.
•        Carry Necessary Medications: Pilgrims with chronic illnesses should ensure to carry all prescribed medications with them. Some pilgrims may need to continue their prescribed medications throughout the journey, so it's essential to store them properly to prevent damage.
•        Carry Copies of Important Documents: In addition to carrying original documents, pilgrims should also carry copies of essential documents to easily access their data when needed.
•        Stick Together: If pilgrims travel in a group, it's important to stick together throughout the Umrah journey and not wander off without informing others.
•        Avoid Crowded Places: Pilgrims should steer clear of crowded areas and avoid pushing during rituals to prevent harm to themselves or others. During Ramadan, pilgrims should follow instructions from authorities in case of overcrowding and pushing.

General Tips for Fasting Pilgrims During Umrah in Ramadan:

Performing Umrah during Ramadan while fasting may have specific considerations compared to other days when pilgrims are not fasting. Here are some tips to help fasting pilgrims maintain their health and physical strength during Umrah:
 

•        Avoid Exhaustion: Take breaks and rest between activities to avoid exhaustion.
•        Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and fluids between iftar and suhoor.
•        Eat Moderately: Avoid overeating during iftar and suhoor, focusing on nutritious foods rich in nutrients and minerals.
•        Sun Protection: Avoid direct sun exposure and use light-colored umbrellas to deflect sunlight.
•        Take Breaks: Fasting pilgrims should take short breaks if they feel symptoms of fatigue or exhaustion.

Tips for Elderly and Chronically Ill Fasting Pilgrims During Umrah in Ramadan:

Performing rituals can be challenging for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses such as diabetes during Umrah in Ramadan due to dietary changes and exposure to the sun. Here are additional measures and tips for them:
 

•        Avoid Exhaustion: Take breaks and rest between activities to avoid exhaustion.
•        Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and fluids between iftar and suhoor.
•        Eat Moderately: Avoid overeating during iftar and suhoor, focusing on nutritious foods rich in nutrients and minerals.
•        Sun Protection: Avoid direct sun exposure and use light-colored umbrellas to deflect sunlight.
•        Take Breaks: Fasting pilgrims should take short breaks if they feel symptoms of fatigue or exhaustion.

Tips for Elderly and Chronically Ill Fasting Pilgrims During Umrah in Ramadan:

Performing rituals can be challenging for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses such as diabetes during Umrah in Ramadan due to dietary changes and exposure to the sun. Here are additional measures and tips for them:
 

•        Consult a Doctor: Elderly or chronically ill pilgrims should consult their doctors before embarking on the Umrah journey to ensure their suitability for travel during Ramadan.
•        Maintain Medications: Ensure medications are stored properly and shielded from sunlight to prevent damage.
•        Glucose Monitoring Device: Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Health advises diabetic patients to carry glucose monitoring devices throughout the Umrah journey.
•        Health Card: Pilgrims should carry a health card containing their medical information to assist medical professionals in case of emergencies.