Hajj and Umrah Guideline

Here are the key Islamic holidays and special days for Muslims during 2024 and 2025:

2024 Islamic Holidays

• Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj: February 7, 2024 (Wednesday)
• Ramadan Begins: March 11, 2024 (Monday)
• Laylatul Qadr: April 5, 2024 (Friday)
• Eid al-Fitr: April 10, 2024 (Wednesday)
• Dhul Hijjah: June 8 – July 7, 2024
• Hajj Pilgrimage: June 15 – June 28, 2024
• Day of ‘Arafah: June 16, 2024 (Sunday)
• Eid al-Adha: June 16, 2024 (Sunday)
• Islamic New Year: July 8, 2024 (Monday)
• Day of Ashura: July 17, 2024 (Wednesday)
• 12th Rabi Al Awwal (Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday): September 16, 2024 (Monday)

2025 Islamic Holidays

• Al Isra’ wal Mi’raj: January 27, 2025 (Monday)
• Ramadan Begins: March 1, 2025 (Saturday)
• Laylatul Qadr: March 27, 2025 (Thursday)
• Eid al-Fitr: March 31, 2025 (Monday)
• Dhul Hijjah: May 29 – June 27, 2025
• Hajj Pilgrimage: June 5 – June 18, 2025
• Day of ‘Arafah: June 6, 2025 (Friday)
• Eid al-Adha: June 6, 2025 (Friday)
• Islamic New Year: June 27, 2025 (Friday)
• Day of Ashura: July 6, 2025 (Sunday)
• 12th Rabi Al Awwal: September 5, 2025 (Friday)

These dates are based on the lunar Islamic calendar and may vary slightly depending on moon sightings. 

Executive Summary

This report analyzes the tour package offerings for Hajj 2024-2025, focusing on premium and luxury categories. The company has demonstrated significant growth, serving 5,002 pilgrims across 25 countries in the previous year, with plans to expand to 32 countries and reach 7,000 pilgrims in the upcoming season.

Package Categories

1. Luxury Category

A. Platinum Package

• Duration: 14 days (May 28 – June 10, 2024)
• Hotels:
  • Mecca: Modern Hotel (behind Hilton)
  • Medina: Keramu Hotel
• Camp: VIP Majority Camps
• Special Features:
  • Fast train transportation
  • VIP camp location (10-15 minutes walking distance to Jamarat)
• Pricing:
  • Base Package: 50,000 SAR (~$13,500)
  • With Flights: 60,000 SAR ($16,200)

B. Gold Package

• Hotels:
  • Mecca: Sheraton Makkah
  • Medina: Valley Hotel
• Camp: Myasim Camps
• Pricing (per bed in quad room):
  • Starting from 35,000 SAR (~$9,460)
  • Range: 35,000-45,000 SAR ($9,460-$12,160)
  • Additional flight costs: ~10,000 SAR ($2,700)

2. Premium Category

A. Silver Package

• Hotels:
  • Welcome Hotels (both in Mecca and Medina)
  • 4-star hotels with 5-star service agreement
• Camp: Myasim Camps
• Pricing:
  • Starting from 30,000 SAR (~$8,100)
  • With flights: $9,000-11,000

B. Economy Package

• Duration: 20 days (May 23 – June 13, 2024)
• Hotels:
  • Mecca: Marine Mitfare Hotel (5-minute shuttle to Haram)
• Camp: Myasim Camps
• Pricing:
  • Base package: Starting from 27,000 SAR (~$7,300)
  • With flights: Starting from $8,000

Camp Facilities Analysis

VIP Camps

• Represents 10% of total capacity
• Location: 10-15 minutes walking distance to Jamarat
• Enhanced facilities and services
• Premium area with upgraded amenities

Myasim Camps

• Standard accommodation for 90% of pilgrims
• Location: 45-60 minutes walking distance to Jamarat
• Good quality services and facilities
• Cost-effective option

Operational Highlights

Starting Location Strategy

• All packages begin from Medina
• Benefits:
  1. Less crowded airport compared to Jeddah
  2. Faster immigration processing
  3. Shorter transfer time (30 minutes to city center)
  4. Opportunity for Hajj preparation seminars
  5. Convenient Ihram arrangements

Support Services

1. Educational Support:
   • Regular spiritual and technical seminars
   • Comprehensive pre-departure preparation
   • Bluetooth headsets for guide communication
2. Transportation:
   • Luxury buses
   • Fast train service for select packages
   • Organized transfers
3. Additional Services:
   • Complementary Umrah visits (Hudaybiyyah and Jirana)
   • Hajj backpack and ID card
   • Telegram group support
   • Continuous updates and communication

Company Performance

Previous Year Statistics

• Total Pilgrims Served: 5,002
• Countries Served: 25
• Languages Supported: 10
• Local Staff in Saudi Arabia: 80

Future Targets

• Projected Pilgrims: 7,000
• Target Countries: 32
• Service Expansion: 28% growth

Recommendations for Pilgrims

1. Early Planning
   • Begin preparation 7-8 months in advance
   • Participate in educational seminars
   • Join communication channels early
2. Package Selection Considerations
   • Budget allocation including flight costs
   • Preferred accommodation standards
   • Physical capability for camp distances
   • Duration preferences
3. Pre-Experience Options
   • Consider Umrah packages in November/December
   • Test services before Hajj commitment
   • Family referral benefits

Notes on Pricing

• All packages quoted in Saudi Riyals (SAR)
• Exchange rate: 1 USD = 3.7 SAR
• Flight costs vary by origin:
  • US: ~10,000 SAR
  • Istanbul: ~3,700 SAR
  • Dubai: ~740 SAR
  • Karachi: ~1,850 SAR

The Shafi’i and Hanafi schools are two of the four major Sunni schools of Islamic jurisprudence. These schools exhibit different approaches to interpreting and applying the fundamental sources of Islam. These differences manifest in various areas, from acts of worship to daily life practices.

Below is a list of significant practical differences between the Shafi’i and Hanafi schools, based on the provided sources and our previous discussions:

Entering Ihram:

• In the Hanafi school, both intention and talbiyah (the verbal declaration) are required to enter Ihram. Merely having the intention is not sufficient.
• In the Shafi’i school, it is sufficient to enter Ihram with only the intention; talbiyah is not a requirement.

Entering Ihram Before the Mikat:

• The Hanafi school holds that there is no harm in entering Ihram before the Mikat (designated points for assuming Ihram). If one can comply with the restrictions of Ihram, entering before the Mikat is preferable.
• The Shafi’i school considers it better to enter Ihram at the Mikat. It is permissible to enter Ihram before the Mikat, but this is discouraged.

Applying Fragrance Before Ihram:

• In the Hanafi school, applying fragrance to the body before entering Ihram is recommended, but applying it to Ihram clothing is not allowed.
• The Shafi’i school permits applying fragrance to the body before entering Ihram, as well as on the Ihram clothing. However, if the fragrance is applied after the intention, it cannot be worn again without removing the fragrance.

Attaching the Izar and Rida:

• In the Hanafi school, using safety pins or buttons to fasten the Izar (lower garment) and Rida (upper garment) is discouraged.
• The Shafi’i school allows the Izar to be fastened with a button or thread, but the use of safety pins is not permitted. Tying the Rida is also not allowed.

Oiling the Body:

• In the Hanafi school, if an individual in Ihram applies odorless oil (like olive or sesame oil) to an entire limb with the intention of beautification, they incur a penalty similar to that for using scented substances. However, if the oil is used for medicinal purposes, no penalty applies.
• In the Shafi’i school, applying oil to hair or beard incurs a penalty, while applying it to other parts of the body does not.

Performing Tawaf by Walking:

• In the Hanafi school, it is obligatory for a physically capable person to perform Tawaf by walking; doing it while riding incurs a penalty for neglecting the obligation.
• In the Shafi’i school, it is recommended (Sunnah) for a capable person to walk during Tawaf. Failing to do so incurs no penalty, but it is considered discouraged.

Starting the Tawaf:

• According to the Hanafi school, starting Tawaf at Hajar al-Aswad (the Black Stone) is obligatory. If one begins after passing it, they must add an additional circuit to compensate, or they incur a penalty for missing a circuit.
• In the Shafi’i school, starting Tawaf at Hajar al-Aswad is necessary, and missing this does not allow for compensation through penalties.

Time for the Mandatory Tawaf of Hajj:

• The Hanafi school states that the mandatory Tawaf (also known as the Tawaf of visitation) can only be performed after the dawn of the first day of Eid al-Adha and cannot be done before this time. It is Sunnah to perform it after the ritual of stoning and shaving. However, if one performs it early, it is allowed but considered undesirable.
• The Shafi’i school allows the mandatory Tawaf to be performed after midnight on the first day of Eid al-Adha. However, performing it outside the prescribed order is considered discouraged.

Continuity Between Tawaf and Sa’y:

• In the Hanafi school, it is recommended to perform the circuits of Tawaf and Sa’y without interruption. However, if one needs to pause for the call to prayer, a broken wudu, or an urgent necessity, they may resume later.
• In the Shafi’i school, maintaining continuity between the circuits is obligatory. If the call to prayer occurs, the Tawaf can be paused, but the person may resume later. This break does not invalidate the requirement for continuity.

Time of Muzdalifah:

• The Hanafi school holds that the time for staying at Muzdalifah lasts from dawn until sunrise. If someone does not remain there without a legal excuse, they incur a penalty.
• In the Shafi’i and Hanbali schools, the time for Muzdalifah begins after midnight and continues until dawn. Even a brief stay at Muzdalifah is considered valid, even if the individual is just passing through.
• According to the Maliki school, the time for Muzdalifah is from sunset on Arafah day until dawn.

Praying Maghrib and Isha in Muzdalifah:

• The Hanafi school states that the Maghrib and Isha prayers must be performed together in Muzdalifah and that this is part of the Hajj rites.
• In the Shafi’i school, combining these prayers is recommended but not obligatory.

Staying Overnight in Mina During Tashreeq Days:

• In the Hanafi school, staying overnight in Mina during Tashreeq days is Sunnah. They see this as facilitating the ritual of stoning, but it is not considered a part of the Hajj rites.
• In the Shafi’i school, staying in Mina during Tashreeq days is obligatory. If someone does not stay overnight at Mina, they incur a penalty.

Order Among the Jamarat:

• In the Hanafi school, maintaining order among the Jamarat (the three pillars where stones are thrown) is not required. If someone throws stones at the second or third Jamarah without first throwing at the first, their act is valid as long as they return to throw at the first one.
• In the Shafi’i school, maintaining order among the Jamarat is necessary. If one throws at the second without throwing at the first, the stones are invalid, and they must repeat the action.

Sa’y’s Requirement:

• In the Hanafi school, Sa’y (the ritual running between Safa and Marwah) is obligatory. Neglecting it incurs a penalty. Sa’y can only be performed after Tawaf, and any Sa’y done before Tawaf is invalid.
• In the Shafi’i school, Sa’y is considered a fundamental pillar of Hajj. Failing to perform Sa’y invalidates the Hajj or Umrah.

Time for Sa’y During Hajj:

• In the Hanafi school, Sa’y can be performed before going to Arafat after performing a nafl Tawaf while wearing Ihram. Thus, after performing the obligatory Tawaf, there is no need to perform Sa’y again. However, it is preferable to do so after the Tawaf of visitation.
• In the Shafi’i school, Sa’y cannot be performed after a nafl Tawaf but can be done after the Qudum Tawaf.

Inability to Complete the Circuits of Sa’y:

• In the Hanafi school, if an individual completes four circuits of Sa’y but cannot finish the seven for any reason, they should give sadaqah (charity) for the remaining circuits. Three circuits are not sufficient.
• In the Shafi’i school, all seven circuits must be completed. If even one circuit is missing, the Ihram cannot be exited, as Sa’y is a pillar.

Using a Wheelchair During Sa’y:

• In the Hanafi school, a person capable of walking cannot perform Sa’y using a wheelchair.
• In the Shafi’i school, it is permissible for someone able to walk to use a wheelchair for Sa’y, although walking is preferred.

Shaving Methods:

• In the Hanafi school, both shaving (halq) and shortening (taqsir) should ideally involve shaving the entire head or shortening the hair by a finger’s width (1.5–2 cm). If only a quarter of the head is shaved or shortened, the obligation is met, but the Sunnah is neglected.
• According to the Shafi’i school, the Sunnah involves shaving the entire head or shortening it. However, cutting or shortening just three hairs is sufficient.

Time for Shaving:

• In the Hanafi school, shaving is obligatory until sunset on the third day of Eid. Failing to do so incurs a penalty.
• According to the Shafi’i and Hanbali schools, along with Imam Abu Yusuf and Imam Muhammad, shaving by the end of the third day of Eid is recommended but not obligatory. If postponed, no penalty is incurred, but Ihram restrictions remain until shaving is done.

Place for Shaving:

• In the Hanafi school, according to Imam Abu Hanifa and Imam Muhammad, shaving must take place within the sanctuary (Haram). Shaving outside the sanctuary invalidates the Ihram and incurs a penalty. However, according to Imam Abu Yusuf and Imam Zafar, shaving in the sanctuary is recommended but not obligatory, so shaving outside does not incur a penalty.

A Muhrim Shaving Another:

• In the Hanafi school, if someone not yet permitted to exit Ihram shaves another, the shaver incurs a penalty, and the person shaved incurs a penalty too. However, a person who has completed the conditions to exit Ihram can shave both themselves and another individual in the same state.
• In the Shafi’i school, if permission is granted to shave another, the shaver incurs no penalty, but the person being shaved does incur a penalty if they have not exited Ihram themselves. If the person shaving is already permitted to exit Ihram, they can shave others without any penalties applying.

The Order of Shaving and Tawaf:

• In the Hanafi school, a person can shave their head or shorten their hair before performing Tawaf al-Ifadah. However, if they choose to do so after, there is no issue as long as the obligatory actions of Hajj are completed within the prescribed time.
• The Shafi’i school emphasizes that it is better to perform Tawaf al-Ifadah first and then proceed with shaving or shortening hair afterward.

Conclusion

These differences illustrate the rich diversity within Islamic law, particularly with regard to the practice of Hajj. Adherents of each school seek to follow their own interpretations of Islamic law while maintaining a common foundation of belief and ritual. This diversity enables Muslims to approach their faith in a way that is compatible with their own cultural context and understanding.

When performing the Hajj or Umrah, it is crucial that pilgrims are aware of these differences and, where necessary, consult with scholars or authorities knowledgeable within their own traditions to ensure that they are fulfilling their religious obligations correctly.

This understanding can also help foster mutual respect and appreciation among Muslims of different schools of thought who come together for the same holy journey. Both sects are right and true.

In the context of Hajj, the sacrifices made are categorized into two types: Hedy and Udhiyye. The key differences between these two types of sacrifices are as follows:

1. Hedy:
   • Definition: Hedy refers to the sacrifice made in relation to Hajj within the sacred boundaries (Haram) surrounding the Kaaba.
   • Purpose: This sacrifice is intended as a gift to the Kaaba and the Sacred Mosque.
   • Obligation: It is obligatory (wajib) for those performing the Qiran and Tamattu’ types of Hajj. For those performing Ifrad Hajj, it is considered recommended (mustahabb).
   • Location: While it is sunnah (recommended) to perform the Hedy sacrifice in Mina, it can be carried out anywhere within the Haram area.
2. Udhiyye:
   • Definition: Udhiyye refers to the sacrifice performed by Muslims who meet specific conditions during Eid al-Adha (Kurban Bayramı).
   • Obligation: There is no requirement for Muslims performing Hajj to make an Udhiyye sacrifice. However, they may choose to perform it voluntarily at any location if they wish.
   • Timing: Udhiyye is specifically tied to the days of Eid al-Adha, independent of the Hajj rituals.

Summary:

• Hedy is a Hajj-related sacrifice that is obligatory for those undertaking Qiran and Tamattu’ Hajj.
• Udhiyye is a sacrifice performed during Eid al-Adha and is not directly related to the Hajj pilgrimage.

Umrah is an Islamic act of worship that involves visiting the Kaaba and performing specific rituals. In Arabic, Umrah means to visit. As a religious term, Umrah is defined as visiting the House of Allah (Beytullah) while in a state of ihram and performing sa’y between Safa and Marwah. Unlike Hajj, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, except during the days of Arafah and Eid al-Adha (five days).

The farz of Umrah are:

• Entering into ihram (condition)
• Performing tawaf (rukn)

Umrah holds significant importance for Muslims and is an opportunity to be purified from sins, experience spiritual renewal, and draw closer to Allah.

Benefits of Umrah:

• Spiritual Renewal and Inner Peace: Umrah offers a chance for spiritual strengthening and achieving inner peace. Visiting the Kaaba, performing tawaf, and participating in other religious rituals provide a process of spiritual renewal and purification. This journey allows individuals to detach from worldly concerns and dedicate themselves to religious duties.
• Strengthening Cultural and Historical Ties: Umrah allows firsthand experience of Islamic history and culture. Visiting sacred cities like Mecca and Medina helps deepen your understanding of the prophets’ stories and significant events in Islamic history. Such a journey strengthens your connection to your religious roots and heritage.
• Building Community Connections: During Umrah, you can meet Muslims from around the world. This is an opportunity to connect with people from different cultures and strengthen your sense of belonging to the Muslim Ummah. This sense of community not only enhances your personal spirituality but also fortifies your ties with your fellow Muslims globally.
• Personal Discovery and Self-Reflection: Umrah provides an excellent opportunity for personal discovery and self-reflection. During this journey, individuals get the chance to think more deeply about their lives, purposes, and beliefs. This process is vital for personal and spiritual development.
• Prayers and Wishes: It is believed that Umrah is a time when the likelihood of your prayers being answered is higher. Prayers made in these sacred lands, especially in front of the Kaaba, hold significant spiritual value and importance.

Difference Between Umrah and Hajj:

While Hajj is a mandatory act of worship and one of the five pillars of Islam, Umrah is not obligatory but sunnah. Hajj must be performed during specific times (Hajj months), whereas Umrah can be performed at any time of the year. Hajj has certain obligatory acts, such as standing at Arafat and the stoning of the devil, which are not part of Umrah.

Conclusion:

Going for Umrah is not just a religious act; it is also a journey of personal and spiritual discovery. This sacred journey offers unique opportunities for spiritual renewal, strengthening historical and cultural ties, building community connections, personal exploration, and offering prayers. It is an exceptional experience that every Muslim should consider undertaking at least once in their lifetime.

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is obligatory for every Muslim who meets certain conditions at least once in their lifetime. Hajj involves visiting specific sacred locations (the Kaaba and its surroundings) at specific times (the months of Shawwal, Dhu al-Qi’dah, and Dhu al-Hijjah) in a specific manner (in accordance with the rituals of Hajj).

In a linguistic sense, Hajj means “to intend to visit sacred places.” In Islam, it refers to “visiting designated places at specified times according to established rules.” Hajj holds great significance for Muslims, representing both a spiritual and physical act of worship. Those who are financially able but unable to perform Hajj due to health reasons may send a representative to fulfill this obligation.

Basic Steps of Hajj

1. Entering Ihram: This is the state of consecration for Hajj or Umrah. Men wear two pieces of cloth called ridā and izār, while women wear their regular clothing. Entering Ihram signifies the prohibition of certain lawful things.
2. Standing at Arafat: Being present at Arafat until sunset on the Day of Arafah is one of the pillars of Hajj. The Prophet Muhammad and approximately 120,000 companions performed the Arafat standing in 632 CE at the foot of Jabal al-Rahmah. At this holy mountain, the Prophet prayed for the forgiveness of his community and received divine assurance of their forgiveness. Claiming that one who stands at Arafat is not forgiven is considered a grave sin.
3. Visitation Tawaf: This involves circling the Kaaba seven times, starting from the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad), keeping the Kaaba on the left. Each circuit is called a shawt, and seven shawts complete one Tawaf.
4. Sa’y: This is the act of walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, commemorating Hagar’s search for water for her son, Ishmael.
5. Stoning the Devil in Mina: This involves throwing stones at three pillars (small, medium, and large) in Mina.
6. Sacrificing an Animal: For those performing the Qiran and Tamattu’ types of Hajj, sacrificing an animal is obligatory.
7. Shaving or Shortening Hair: Men either shave their heads or shorten their hair. Women only shorten their hair.
8. Farewell Tawaf: This is the final Tawaf performed before leaving Mecca.

Tawaf

Tawaf means circling the Kaaba and is a significant part of both Hajj and Umrah. Tawaf begins at the Black Stone and involves circling the Kaaba seven times with the Kaaba remaining on the left. Each circuit counts as one shawt, and seven shawts complete a Tawaf. During Tawaf, prayers are recited, and takbirs and tahlils are offered. Detailed guidance on how to perform Tawaf is available in various sources.

Types of Hajj

Hajj is categorized into three types: Ifrad, Tamattu’, and Qiran. These categories differ in terms of how Hajj is performed and the order of rituals. Detailed instructions for each type of Hajj can be found in various sources.