Saudi Arabia, the heartland of Islam, is a place of profound spiritual value. It houses two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina, and attracts countless pilgrims. Except for the Hajj days, Muslims can perform Umrah whenever they want. However, a minor pilgrimage during Ramadan equals performing Hajj with the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.W). Most pilgrims avail Umrah deals to make their trip more convenient as these plans include flights, lodging, meals and guided tours. All-inclusive Ramadan Umrah packages allow pilgrims to focus on their spiritual duties while exploring the country’s rich heritage.
Ramadan Umrah: Why is it Spiritually Rewarding?
Ramadan is the 9th month in the Islamic calendar. Muslims believe that the rewards for good deeds are multiplied during this sacred month. Therefore, they prefer performing Umrah in Ramadan. The spiritual atmosphere in Mecca and Medina during this time is unmatched. The collective devotion of countless Muslims, fasting and praying together, creates a powerful sense of unity.
The Night of Decree, also called Laylatul Qadr, is believed to fall within the odd nights of last 10 days of Ramadan. According to Quran, worshipping on this sacred night is better than praying for 1000 months. The Prophet (PBUH) has encouraged Muslims to seek out this night with increased devotion. That is why, millions of global pilgrims plan Ramadan Umrah to spend this night praying in the revered Holy Kaaba.
All-Inclusive Ramadan Umrah Packages: A Brief Overview
These are special Umrah deals, crafted to serve pilgrims performing Umrah in Ramadan. From 3-star to 5-star options, these packages are available in a wide range to facilitate pilgrims with different budgets. Moreover, these deals are also classified according to the Ashra of the holy month. Ashra is an Arabic word, meaning ten. It refers to the three distinct ten-day periods within the sacred Ramadan. Each part has its spirituality and Ramadan deals allow pilgrims to perform Umrah during any Ashra when they want.
Here are some of the major perks, offered by these packages:
- Offer return Umrah tickets from international airports to Saudi Arabia.
- Provide lodges in the top-rated hotels within Mecca and Medina
- Serve with private or local transport between hotels, airports, and holy sites.
- Arrange suhoor and iftar for the pilgrims.
- Assist with visa processing and other legal needs.
- Offer guided tours to Islamic and historical sites.
Exploring Mecca and Medina with Ramadan Umrah Packages
For Muslims, visiting Mecca and Medina holds immense religious importance. Therefore, these Umrah deals also allow pilgrims to explore the revered cities while performing pilgrimage.
Mecca
Located in the Hijaz region of western Saudi Arabia, Mecca lies about 70 km inland from the Red Sea. The city is 277 m above sea level and 80 km from the coastline of Jeddah. It is the birthplace of the Prophet (PBUH) and is home to Kaaba, the most sacred site in Islam. Though millions of global Muslims visit this revered city for Hajj and Umrah, there are many historical and religious sites to explore as well. Some of them are:
Jabal Al-Nour
Known as the “Mountain of Light”, Jabal al-Nour is the peak that houses the Cave of Hira. It is the famous cave where the Prophet (PBUH) received the first revelation of the Quran from the Angel Gabriel. This sacred mountain is just 4 km away from the Kaaba. Pilgrims performing Umrah usually hike this peak to visit the cave.
Jabal Thawr
This famous mountain is home to the sacred Cave of Thawr, where the Prophet (PBUH) and his companion Abu Bakr took refuge during the Hijrah. It is the same cave where a spider spun a web to protect the refugees from enemies.
Masjid Aisha
Named after the wife of the Prophet (PBUH), this mosque is also known as Masjid al Tan’eem. It is the sacred place where Mecca pilgrims assume Ihram for Umrah. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) also entered the Ihram state from this location.
Mount Arafat
Located on the East of Mecca, it is the granite hill where the Prophet (PBUH) delivered his last sermon. Standing on Mount Arafat is a vital part of the Hajj, symbolizing the climax of the pilgrimage.
Masjid al-Jinn
This mosque is believed to be the sacred site where a group of jinns listened to the Prophet (PBUH) while reciting the Quran, and embraced Islam. Masjid al-Jinn has immense religious importance and is visited by many pilgrims, especially the ones performing Umrah in Ramadan.
Zubaida Canal
Built by Queen Zubaida, the wife of Caliph Harun al-Rashid, this canal was used to quench the thirst of pilgrims. During her Hajj in 809 A.D., she noticed water shortage and was deeply moved by the plight of locals and pilgrims. Therefore, she decided to address the issue by building a canal.
Abraj Al-Bait Towers
Being a complex of skyscrapers, these towers include the world’s 4th tallest building. The world also knows this site as the Makkah Royal Clock Tower. It overlooks the Grand Mosque and offers modern amenities for pilgrims, such as hotels and shopping centers.
Medina
Perched in the Hejaz region, Medina is 445 km from Mecca by road. It lies 160 km inland from the Red Sea and is 625 m above sea level. Originally Yathrib, the city was named Medina upon the Prophet’s arrival after Hijrah. It remained the capital of the Islamic state until 661 CE. The city is surrounded by arid hills and huge lava fields. Besides housing the revered Prophet’s Mosque, built in 622 CE, Medina is also renowned for some other antique and religious sites as well. Such as:
Quba Mosque
It is the first mosque ever built in Islam. The Prophet (PBUH) laid its foundation upon his arrival in Medina. Therefore, it holds immense religious importance. According to a Hadith, two Rakahs of prayer in this mosque are equal to performing Umrah.
Mount Uhud
It is the site of the famous Battle of Uhud, which took place between Muslims and Quraysh in 625 CE. Pilgrims visiting Medina, usually hike this mountain to pay tribute to the martyrs of that historic battle.
The Seven Mosques
Located at the Battle of Trench, these are a group of small mosques. Each is named after a famous personality, like Abu Bakr, Salman Farsi, and others.
Dar Al Madinah Museum
Dedicated to the rich history of Medina, this museum is filled with historical artifacts. Here, pilgrims can see the models of the old city and the utensils used in the Prophet’s life.
Hejaz Railway Museum
Perched at the old Hejaz railway station, this museum highlights the history of a train depot, built in the Ottoman era. The museum has historical models, images, and artifacts of the railway.
The House of Fatima Bint-e- Hussain
This historical site holds immense religious value. Being the house of the daughter of Imam Hussain (A.S), this place has remnants from the early Islamic period.
Hence, all-inclusive Umrah deals offer a unique opportunity to experience the best of Saudi Arabia while fulfilling the spiritual journey. Muslims Holy Travel, one of the leading travel agencies, provides you with these packages at cheap prices. Book your deal now and enrich your travel experience.
