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| Plan early for the Hajj |
Going on the Hajj is a serious undertaking. As it is a once in a lifetime experience for most people, early and adequate preparation cannot be underestimated. There is a considerable investment of time, money and physical effort required for the pilgrimage to be successful.
Prospective pilgrims need to make sure they are prepared and ready for what will be one of the most memorable experiences of their lives.
Follow our checklist below and see if you're ready for the Hajj.
Do you qualify?
Every Muslim who fulfills the following conditions must perform Hajj
at least once in their lifetime:
You must be of sound mind and in full control of your mental faculties
You must be mature enough to understand the full significance of what you are setting out to do
You must be financially sound enough to bear all your expenses for the Hajj and provide adequately for your dependents in your absence
Six Months before
Begin to research the Hajj, make sure you meet the requirements and can afford to take time off work and will be debt-free. Talk to your Imam about the Hajj rites and get the permission of your parents. If you know someone who has done the Hajj get their advice on your potential arrangements.
Three Months before
Start organising the journey to Saudi and getting into good physical shape. Resolve all outstanding finances.
Pay off all bills, debts and loans
Make arrangements for any family remaining behind
Organise funds for journey
Book Flights
Start gentle exercise regime
Check your passport is valid for six months
Apply for a Saudi Visa
Organise a Mutawwif
Draw up Islamic Will
Two months before
Start reading up on the Hajj, learning about Hajj rites and memorising Hajj prayers. Need proof of vaccinations for Saudi Visa and obtaining documents:
Read up on Hajj and Islam
Vaccinations for Saudi Hajj visa
Need proof of Meningitis vaccination
Obtain proof of being Muslim especially if do not have Muslim name
If female, obtain proof of relationship with Mahram
Increase your exercise regime
One month before
Increase your fitness and memorising of the prayers. Organise requirements
for the trip. Shop for:
Light clothes for the Saudi heat
Ihram for men
Extra slippers as they are easily lost on Hajj
Handy backpack to carry items around
Money Belt for travellers cheques and currency
Travel alarm clock to wake up at all hours
Medicines/antibiotics as preventative measures
First-aid kit for emergencies
Sleeping bag, night torch, ear plugs/eye patch
Unscented soap
Zip bag for Muzdalifah pebbles
Umbrella for Saudi sun and stoning rite
Nail clippers/ shaving toiletries for Leaving Ihram
Water flask for Zam Zam water
One week before
Test yourself by reciting the prayers from memory. Finalise packing and get ready to go.
Keep Pilgrim arrival card with passport and Saudi Hajj visa
Pack everything including portable Quran, English-Arabic dictionary, travellers cheques, some Saudi Riyals, high energy snacks, thermo flask for hot and cold drinks.
Good luck!
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The Hajj Today