Known for being one of the most significant pilgrimages amongst Muslims, Umrah has many rules and restrictions. There is a specified set of certain Islamic guidelines that must be followed to perform Umrah successfully. Rules of Umrah for women are different from those for male pilgrims. Hence, Umrah training and tutorials programs can go a long way preparing for the pilgrimage, both mentally and physically.
What is covered in Umrah training?
Most Umrah training programs focus on the rules and regulations that must be followed by those seeking to successfully perform the minor pilgrimage. Many of these programs provide comprehensive instructions on how to perform the various Umrah rituals and steps of Ihram. They underline the rules that must be followed by women seeking to perform Umrah.
By and large, Umrah training programs are designed to prepare you for all the aspects of this holy pilgrimage. Broadly, there are two kinds of people who need Umrah training – those who are seeking to perform the minor pilgrimage and the ones who are involved in making arrangements for it. Here is a look at what these two kinds of Umrah training programs cover.
A. Umrah training for trainers
Umrah training programs are designed with the purpose of enabling facilitators to efficiently play their part in making arrangements for the pilgrimage. They are based upon an effective and systematic academic learning process. Almost all of these programs essentially focus on the legalities associated with Umrah, along with changes in rules, flight regulations, and visa specifications. Besides, they are a fairly elaborate guide on Islamic duas and rituals needed at different stages of Umrah.
B. Umrah tutorial for pilgrims
Umrah training programs for pilgrims include everything one should know about for successfully performing the pilgrimage. Here are some common components of all Umrah training programs for pilgrims:
i) Eligibility and visa
Saudi Arabia issues a special visa for Umrah pilgrims that is valid for 30 days from the date of issue. Umrah visa can be obtained at any time of the year except Hajj. Devotees can apply for an Umrah visa through one of the many approved Umrah travel agents. While applying for the visa, applicants need to fill in an online application form and submit a few documents.
ii) Saudi rules and regulations
According to the new rule established by the Government of Saudi Arabia, women can perform Umrah alone only if they are above 45 years and travelling in a group. Else, every woman must be accompanied by a male companion throughout the pilgrimage. However rules and regulations pertaining to Umrah keep changing, and an Umrah tutorial is an easy way to be updated on them.
iii) Steps to do Umrah
To complete Umrah, devotees must perform certain specified rituals. Notably, these rituals include entering the holy state of Ihram, carrying out Tawaf al-Umrah around the Kaaba, performing Sa’i of Safa and Marwah, and cutting hair to exit the state of Ihram. Also, there are certain restrictions imposed on those performing Umrah. This part of the program focusses on imparting knowledge about Umrah procedure, key rituals, and important restrictions for men and women both.
iv) Duas and prayers
A major part of Umrah involves the recitation of duas and prayers. During the entire pilgrimage, devotees read Umrah duas at various points. It is essential for anyone planning to go to Makkah for Umrah to memorise Umrah duas. Umrah training will help aspiring pilgrims to identify prayers they wish to offer and tips on how to quickly learn them.
v) Dress code
Wearing proper Ihram clothing is an essential part of performing Umrah. When it comes to selecting the right kind of Umrah clothing, it is important to consider certain spiritual and practical factors like the weather and cultural sensibilities. It is advisable to make sure the clothes are not only in accordance with the rules of Umrah but also comfortable. Here are some tips and guidelines to keep in mind while selecting Umrah clothes.
vi) Umrah Essentials
Umrah essentials include a range of accessories and must-packs such as scent-free toiletries, hats & glasses, prayer essentials like a pocket Quran and prayer mat, sanitising essentials in light of COVID 19 guidelines and more. Also, there are many important documents that one must carry at all times. Read here for a complete list of Umrah essentials.
vii) Mistakes in Umrah
Umrah tutorials also cover common mistakes in Umrah that have been observed over the years. Being aware of these mistakes is helpful in avoiding them and completing Umrah successfully.
Umrah is an important journey that if completed successfully, brings a lot of peace, happiness and joy. Therefore, it is highly recommended that anyone seeking to perform Umrah should undertake an Umrah training program to prepare for the journey.
Umrah Training & Tutorial FAQs
What does Umrah training consist of?
Most Umrah training programs focus on the rules and regulations that must be followed by those seeking to successfully perform the minor pilgrimage. They underline the rules that must be followed by women seeking to perform Umrah.
What is the Umrah training for facilitators?
Umrah training programs are designed with the purpose of enabling facilitators to efficiently play their part in making arrangements for the pilgrimage. Based upon an effective and systematic academic learning process, almost all of these programs essentially focus on the legalities associated with Umrah.
What are the Umrah rituals and restrictions?
To complete Umrah, devotees must perform certain specified rituals. Notably, these rituals include entering the holy state of Ihram, carrying out Tawaf al-Umrah around the Kaaba, performing Saee of Safa and Marwah, and cutting hair to exit the state of Ihram. Also, there are certain restrictions imposed on those performing Umrah.
What is the mandatory dress code for Umrah?
Wearing proper Ihram clothing is an essential part of performing Umrah. When it comes to selecting the right kind of Umrah clothing, it is important to consider certain spiritual and practical factors like the weather and cultural sensibilities.
What are the important Umrah essentials?
Umrah essentials include a range of accessories and must-packs such as scent-free toiletries, hats & glasses, prayer essentials like a pocket Quran and prayer mat, sanitising essentials in light of COVID 19 guidelines and more.
