📖 Things You Should Know Before Going to Umrah
READING & RESEARCH
Before going on Umrah, you can continue your reading and research. You may read books about the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). One great recommendation is Talha Uğurluel’s “The Life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Through Places and Events.”
You can also learn about Ihram restrictions, the holy sites to visit, and the prayers to recite from various sources.
Enes Gümüşkaya’s Umrah videos on YouTube are also very helpful — even watching those alone will teach you a lot about how to perform Umrah.
VISA
You can apply for an e-visa through the KSA Visa website. It’s also possible to get your visa upon arrival at the airport, but applying online saves you waiting time.
CLOTHING
Pack light, breathable cotton clothes — your summer outfits will be enough.
You’ll also need essential items like Ihram garments, sandals/slippers, and fragrance-free soap.
SIM CARD
You can buy an STC SIM card at Jeddah Airport. Some people prefer enabling international roaming on their own number, but getting a local SIM card is usually more practical.
FOOD
You may choose not to include meals in your hotel booking so you can cook and eat whenever you return from the Kaaba.
You can shop from local markets and buy a small electric stove. Most hotels have a refrigerator and a kettle.
Also, bring plenty of snacks from Turkey — they’re very useful for quick bites between prayers and visits!