Umrah Documents Checklist 2022
The last days before travel can be very bustling or they can be very peaceful. I can never forget my first Umrah trip when I forgot to carry my marriage certificate of my wife, and I suffered a huge problem as Saudi Arabia has very strict Mahram Rules. Don’t know where to start?
Don’t worry, I have you captured. Here are the documents that are worth arranging before you leave for Umrah. Checking all of these timely can make your trip much smoother than you think.
Essential Documents
- Passport (Two copies recommended)
The most prior document on your checklist is your passport. You can’t travel anywhere in the world without having it. Your passport must be valid for six months at the time of application for Umrah. It must contain two adjacent blank pages. The authorities will take your passport in their custody and will return it to you on your departure.
2. Valid Flight Tickets
Check the date of your ticket and visa, and make your departures confirm. Umrah visa is valid only for 15 days after your entrance into the state. At times, it is not suitable to show a digital copy of your reservation. It is recommended to have color copies of your tickets.
3. ID Card
An ID card is also another crucial thing while traveling for Umrah. You must have a valid identity card making sure that it is up to date with any of the changes you have made to your card. It helps to prove your identity, and its chip gives access to many e-services.
4. Evidence of Vaccinations
All pilgrims from the whole of the World are required to bring a valid PCR certificate. The certificate should not be older than 48 hours at the departing time. Depending on your country, you may also need to have a certificate of vaccination against COVID 19.
5. Passport Size Photos
Bring at least 6 additional passport-sized photographs with you during Umrah. These may be required for documentation and procedures during your travel.
6. Relationship Proof if traveling with a partner
It is also another important document that can make your journey disturbing if you forget about it. I had already described my trouble facing the situation. I hope my mistake will be a guide for you. Saudi Arabia has a very strict Mahram policy for a woman under 45.
7. Hotel & Transport Booking Vouchers
Pre Booking of hotel and transport is recommended. Especially you should book your hotel one night in advance before your arrival. In this way, you will not have to worry regarding your stay during Umrah journey. It is also advised to have printed copies of your reservations that you can show off in case of un-accessibility to cell service or Wi-Fi.
Many travelers, just like you and me, don’t want to take the hassle of the hotel and transport booking. Here is also a solution to this that can save your precious time. I had dealt with many travel agencies, but Labbaik Hajj Umrah is one of the most trusted travel agencies in the UK.
8. Receipts of Umrah Payments
Many pilgrims who are going to perform Umrah do not keep a record of their payments made for any of these rituals. You should make your payments via bank transfer and keep two copies of it. One must be shared with any of your family members.
9. Saudi Riyals or Debit / Credit Card
A minimum amount of 450 riyals (£100, $120) is recommended to have in your pocket, to bear the initial expenses upon arrival in the state. You can also exchange your local money into Saudi Riyals from any of the local banks in Saudi Arabia or from any certified money exchangers.
A debit / Credit card can also be helpful during your Umrah. It can be used to withdraw cash from any of the ATMs if you run out of money.
10. Shahadah certificate
It is the document that is required for Muslims who have converted to Islam from any other religion. It is necessary to have when applying for Hajj & Umrah visa as only Muslims can enter Makkah and Madinah. You can obtain this certificate from any Mosque that is certified for issuance of this certificate.
These are the documents that are a must for performing Umrah. All pilgrims are advised to make two sets of copies of all the documents mentioned above. Keep one of them at home and one with themselves. Records at your home can be helpful in case of any emergency or legal affairs. Arranging all of your packing in a mannered way can make your trip smoother, as it is a journey for a lifetime.