Muslims who intend to travel to Saudi Arabia for the Umrah or other minor pilgrimages are advised to pack the "perfect" bag for the ceremonies in the Grand Mosque, the holiest place in Islam in Mecca. According to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, this bag is crucial and should include the pilgrim's hotel information, emergency contacts to guarantee prompt communication in the event of an emergency, and an identity card or passport to streamline official procedures. A mobile phone to stay in touch, a prayer booklet to aid in the performance of the rituals, and sufficient cash to pay expenditures are also essential for the pilgrim.“To have an easier Umrah, choose a light and practical bag. Make do with the necessary items only,” the ministry said on the social media platform X.

The current season of Umrah, which can be undertaken around the year, began in late June after the end of the annual Hajj pilgrimage that around 1.8 million Muslims from across the globe attended.Around 13.5 Muslims performed Umrah last year, according to Saudi figures. The kingdom plans to welcome 15 million Muslims to perform Umrah next year.

Saudi Arabia, Islam’s birthplace, has in recent months introduced a host of facilities for Muslims wishing to come to the country for Umrah.

Authorities have extended the Umrah visa from 30 days to 90 and allowed holders to enter the kingdom via all land, air and sea outlets and leave from any airport. Women pilgrims are no longer required to be escorted by male guardians.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has stressed the importance of this bag, saying it should contain an identity card or a passport to facilitate official procedures, emergency contacts to ensure rapid communication in case of emergency, and a hotel address where the pilgrim resides.

In addition, the pilgrim should have enough money to cover expenses, a prayer booklet that helps perform the rites, and keep a mobile phone to stay in contact.

“To have an easier Umrah, choose a light and practical bag. Make do with the necessary items only,” the ministry said on the social media platform X.

Around 13.5 Muslims performed Umrah last year, according to Saudi figures. The kingdom plans to welcome 15 million Muslims to perform Umrah next year.

Muslims holding different types of entry visas such as the personal, visit and tourism visas are allowed to undertake Umrah and visit Al Rawda Al Sharifa, where the tomb of the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) is located at the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina after booking an e-appointment.

Saudi citizens can also apply to invite their friends abroad to visit the kingdom and undertake Umrah.