In the life of a Muslim getting the chance of performing Ramadan Umrah holds a special place. Following the path of the Prophet (ﷺ), many Muslims choose to perform the Ramadan Umrah Tour during the blessed month of Ramadan to get more Barkat from the Almighty. However, in 2024, Saudi Arabia introduced a new rule regarding Umrah during Ramadan that many might not be aware of.
Ramadan Umrah: Virtue of the Holy Month
As the holy month of Ramadan takes its entry, it brings a lot of virtues with it. From Sawm to Taraweeh, there are many more things that every Muslim cherishes in the holy month. One such great Sunnah of the month is Performing Ramadan Umrah.
Specialty: Umrah is a pilgrimage that Muslims can do anytime but doing it in Ramadan is extra special. Ramadan is the month when the Quran, the holy book of Islam, was sent down to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Extra Barkat: Performing Umrah in Ramadan is believed to bring extra Barkat from Allah (SWT). Muslims who perform Umrah be it with a luxury Umrah package or a cheap package during Ramadan, feel closer to Allah (SWT) and try to become a better version of themselves. They also seek Astaghfar for their sins and make lots of Dua for themselves and others.
New Rule of Saudi Arabia in 2024
In 2024, Saudi Arabia introduced a new regulation concerning Umrah pilgrimages during Ramadan. The Saudi government has imposed a restriction on individuals, allowing them to perform Umrah only once during the holy month. This measure aims to address the issue of overcrowding at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, the holiest site in Islam.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah emphasized that this initiative is part of broader efforts to manage the overcrowding of pilgrims and make a more organized experience for all. By limiting pilgrims in and out of Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah for the second time during Ramadan, the ministry seeks to reduce congestion, promote access to everyone to the sacred rituals of Umrah, and effectively manage crowds, particularly during peak periods.
It is essential for the pilgrims to familiarize themselves with this regulation and adhere to it to facilitate a smoother pilgrimage experience for themselves and their fellow Hajis.
Other Benefits provided by Saudi Arabia
This year the Saudi Government has extended many benefits for foreign pilgrims whether they went with the full Ramadan Umrah package or the last 10 days Ramadan Umrah package. Some of these are –
Inclusive Visa Policy: Pilgrims holding various types of entry visas, such as personal, visit, and tourism Visas, are now permitted to undertake the pilgrimage. This policy expansion allows a broader spectrum of people to perform the sacred journey.
Visit to Al Rawda Al Sharifa: Pilgrims now have the opportunity to visit Al Rawda Al Sharifa, the sacred location of Prophet Mohammad's (PBUH) tomb at the Prophet's Mosque in Medina.
Extended Umrah Visa Duration: Recognizing the desire of pilgrims to spend more time in the holy land, Saudi Arabia has extended the Umrah visa duration from 30 days to 90 days.
In recent times, these enhancements reflect Saudi Arabia's commitment to catering to the needs and preferences of pilgrims from around the world.
Book Your Pilgrimage Tour Package
When you are planning your Umrah pilgrimage and secure your spot to perform this esteemed act of Ibadat you can choose Adeeba Tour and Travels without any second thought. They offer comprehensive Umrah and Hajj tour package that cater to the needs and preferences of different pilgrims. From accommodation and transportation to guided tours and food, these packages make journeys easy. You can check their package by reaching out to us.
Conclusion:
As a new rule regarding Ramadan Umrah was implemented in 2024, it's essential for pilgrims to familiarize themselves with the necessary procedures and requirements. By availing of the benefits provided by Saudi Arabia pilgrims can perform their spiritual journey with peace of mind.