Saudi Arabia launched a 16-language Visit Guide covering visas, rituals, services and departure procedures/Image: SPA
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched a comprehensive multilingual guide designed to support worshippers at every step of their Umrah journey, from pre-departure planning to final exit procedures. Available in 16 international languages, the new resource seeks to simplify rituals, improve awareness, and enhance the overall pilgrim experience.
A multilingual resource for global pilgrims
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued the Umrah and Visit Guide in 16 international languages, ensuring that worshippers and Umrah pilgrims can access official guidance and organisational information in their native languages.The objective is clear. By removing language barriers, the ministry aims to raise awareness, reduce confusion, and enable pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease and peace of mind. The guide is positioned as a practical reference for both first-time visitors and returning worshippers.
Covering every stage of the journey
The guide functions as an interactive educational resource that accompanies pilgrims throughout the entire Umrah and visit process.It spans all stages of the journey, including:
- Pre-travel preparations
- Visa procedures
- Permit requirements
- Performance of Umrah rituals
- Movement and navigation within the Two Holy Mosques
- Completion of departure formalities
Information is arranged chronologically, allowing Umrah performers and visitors to quickly locate guidance relevant to each specific phase of their journey. This structured sequencing is designed to minimise uncertainty and ensure smoother transitions between stages.
Ritual guidance and on-ground services
The publication provides detailed instructions for the core components of Umrah, including:
- Ihram
- Tawaf
- Sa’i
It also outlines the etiquette of the Two Holy Mosques, reinforcing behavioural expectations that help maintain order and facilitate smooth movement within the holy sites.Special attention is given to essential services available at:
- Grand Mosque
- Prophet’s Mosque
In addition to ritual instruction, the guide highlights organisational frameworks and behavioural guidelines aimed at preserving discipline, improving crowd management, and ensuring an orderly environment for all worshippers.To enhance usability, the guide incorporates visual elements and digital links directing users to maps, instructional videos, and support services. These integrated digital features are intended to make navigation and understanding more accessible.
Part of broader service and digital transformation efforts
The ministry stated that the release of the Umrah and Visit Guide forms part of its ongoing efforts to elevate the experience of worshippers and Umrah pilgrims. The initiative supports three core objectives:
- Raising procedural awareness
- Strengthening organisational clarity
- Advancing digital transformation in pilgrim services
By consolidating guidance into a single, accessible platform, the ministry aims to facilitate the journey of Umrah pilgrims and visitors while improving overall service quality.The guide is available online at:www.haj.gov.sa/GuidesThrough this initiative, the ministry seeks to ensure that pilgrims arrive informed, move with clarity, and complete their spiritual journey with confidence and order. Go to Source
