In addition to being a physical trip, the Umrah journey from Jeddah Airport to Makkah is a profoundly spiritual experience that binds a pilgrim to the core of faith, obedience, and love to Allah.
I feel a great sense of thankfulness for being given this chance as I get off the plane at King Abdulaziz International Airport. Seeking forgiveness, cleansing, and a better relationship with Allah are the goals of this journey, not only getting to the end.
The mood at the airport is really spiritual when you first arrive. I am reminded that I am now in the country where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) lived and preached by the sight of other pilgrims wearing plain white clothing and the sound of Arabic prayers and discussions.
I have to go through immigration and customs first. Even if it is a formality, the process is very important because it represents the start of my holy journey.
I get ready with a sense of reverence if I have made the decision to enter the state of Ihram at the airport. Wearing an Ihram is a requirement for doing Umrah and represents equality, purity, and submission to Allah.
After making sure I am physically clean through ablution (wudu), I put on the basic white Ihram clothing. Men wear it as two pieces of unstitched cloth, and women wear modest attire that completely covers them save for their hands and face.
I form my intention (niyyah) for Umrah while standing in the airport prayer area, and I start reciting the Talbiyah: “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaik Laa Shareeka Laka Labbaik.” Laa Shareeka Laka, Innal Hamda Wan-Ni’mata Laka Wal-Mulk.
This declaration’s meaning is “Here I am, O Allah, here I am.” I’m here, and You don’t have a companion. Indeed, You are the owner of all glory, grace, and sovereignty. “You have no partner” makes me feel humble and submissive.
I shall continue to recite these words during the voyage, strengthening my commitment and establishing a connection with Allah.
Jeddah and Makkah are around 85 kilometers apart, and it usually takes one to one and a half hours to go there by bus or automobile. I might choose to use a bus offered by Hajj and Umrah companies, a shared car, or a private taxi, depending on my plans. Every choice has a different experience to offer, yet they are all bound together by the desire to arrive in the holy city.
I am lost in contemplation of the pilgrimage’s meaning as the car sets off. This is a trip that millions of Muslims have traveled throughout history, bound together by dedication and religion. Knowing that I am following in the footsteps of innumerable believers who have prayed to Allah for mercy and direction on this journey makes me feel a strong bond with them.
The scenery between Jeddah and Makkah is stunningly calm. The arid desert scenery, interrupted by rocky hills and occasional road signs pointing toward Makkah, promotes thought and prayer.
As the vehicle approaches Makkah, I continue to recite the Talbiyah and offer silent prayers, asking Allah for forgiveness, blessings, and acceptance of my Umrah.
As we approach Makkah, my heart floods with emotion. I am filled with amazement and joy as I prepare to enter Islam’s holiest city, where every prayer is multiplied and every moment has the potential for spiritual growth. When I finally see the minarets of Masjid al-Haram, I feel overwhelmed with thankfulness and humility.
When I arrive in Makkah, I go to my hotel to rest for a few hours before beginning the Umrah process. If you haven’t already done so, you must enter the state of Ihram at the miqat (a designated station for assuming Ihram).
Those who did not take Ihram at the airport now have the opportunity to do so, ensuring that their intention and attire are in line with Umrah standards.
The first phase of Umrah is Tawaf, or circumambulation of the Kaaba, Allah’s House. As I enter the Masjid al-Haram and see the Kaaba for the first time, I am overtaken with emotion.
It’s a profound spiritual connection that I’ve longed for. Tears of thankfulness flood down my cheeks as I lift my hands in supplication and pour my heart out to Allah.
During Tawaf, I walk seven times counterclockwise around the Kaaba, beginning at the Black Stone (Hajr al-Aswad). Each phase is punctuated with prayers and reflections. The act of circling the Kaaba represents Allah’s significance in my life, as well as the oneness of Muslims worldwide.
Following Tawaf, I do Sa’i, which is the act of walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah. This rite honors Hajar, the mother of Prophet Ismail (peace be upon them), for her effort in searching for water for her young son. Her persistent faith in Allah and commitment motivate me to believe in His wisdom and mercy. During Sa’i, I reflect on my personal challenges, seeking Allah’s strength and direction.
The final phase of Umrah is the symbolic clipping or shaving of hair, which signifies the end of the trip and a new beginning. Men often shave their heads completely, whereas women cut a tiny amount of their hair. This act indicates humility and renewed faith.
As I finish the rituals, I feel a profound sense of calm and completion. The travel from Jeddah to Makkah, as well as doing Umrah, are profound spiritual experiences that have transformed my heart and soul.
This voyage has reminded me of the fleeting nature of worldly life and the significance of seeking Allah’s pleasure and kindness. Every moment, from the intention at Jeddah Airport until the final prayer at Masjid al-Haram, has importance and spirituality. The travel to Makkah for Umrah will forever be remembered as a life-changing experience that brought me closer to Allah and increased my faith. It is a voyage of love, submission, and regeneration, a sacred undertaking that I will treasure for the rest of my life.
