If you are a Muslim then most probably, you will know that performing hajj and umrah
once in a lifetime is obligatory on each and every Muslim man and woman who has the resources to bear the expenses to travel to sacred places of Makkah and Madinah. If you are planning to perform the obligation of Hajj and Umrah then there are some points which are needed to be considered and a proper guideline for such a holy journey would be a lot beneficial during the performance of such an obligation. Here are some necessary points for such a journey which are as follows
First of all, it is strongly preferred to not book all things of Hajj or umrah separately as it will make your journey a bit complex, therefore, book a complete hajj package or umrah package to make your journey easier and more convenient.
Secondly, there are different hajj and umrah packages offered by different hajj and umrah travel agencies. These umrah packages vary from luxurious and costly umrah packages offering stay at luxury hotels to economic umrah packages offering only necessary facilities for performing your hajj and umrah. Therefore, choose precisely that what type of umrah packages you want based on your budgets and needs.
One more important thing to consider while choosing an umrah package is to check out that the place where you are going to stay is how much close to Haram so that how much distance you will have to cover to reach Haram daily for offering prayers. Hotels which are closer to Haram usually have more prices than ones which are relatively away from Haram.
Another important factor to consider is to check the reputation of your umrah packages provider. There are lots of fraudulent umrah travel agencies which promise a lot of facilities in the beginning but when someone books umrah packages from them then such companies do not provide the promised facilities and consequently pilgrims have to suffer during their hajj and umrah. It is always better to book an umrah package through a friend or relative who has already performed hajj and umrah through a hajj and umrah packages provider company so that you can take services of a trusted hajj and umrah services company. Another way to check the reputation of a company is to check through online reviews and testimonials to avoid any fraudulent company.
Booking your hajj and umrah packages from a registered company is always better because Saudi Government provides license only to authentic and trusted hajj and umrah travel companies. This may be a bit costly but it will help you to get the best out of your sacred journey. Recently, Saudi Government has banned lots of companies for issuing hajj and umrah packages 2012 who could not meet the standards set by Saudi Government.