Hajj 2022 /1442 Preparation Guide
Physical Preparation
It’s important to understand that Hajj requires considerable physical energy, specifically in the form of sitting, standing, and walking. We advise you to perform some exercise daily, which may include prolonged walks and light jogging to easily adapt to Hajj conditions.
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Mental Preparation
We recommend you to mentally prepare yourself for this journey so that you may have a superior spiritual experience. In order to achieve best results, you are required to do the following:
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Learn about the rites of ‘Hajj
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Reflect upon the wisdom behind such acts of worship (by reading Islamic history)
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Read about the experiences of those who have previously performed Hajj
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Watch documentaries based on ‘Hajj—this will assist in visualizing the rites in action
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What to Take Along?
Perhaps, one of the most important questions we are asked about is ‘What should we take for Hajj?’ and for this, we will provide a list of possible things that should be carried by you to keep stuff handy and ease your journey (This is by no means an exhaustive list. Please consult with your family & relatives to know what would suffice your needs):
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I’hraam
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Bath/Face towels
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Hairbrush, Toothbrush, Mouthwash, and Toothpaste
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Wet wipes
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Lip balm and Sunscreen cream
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Surgery face (mouth) masks
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Sandals/Slippers (used ones are preferable)
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Rennies, Imodium
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Vitamin tablets
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Pain killers: Paracetamol, Ibuprofen etc.,
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Travel sickness tablets
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Savlon cream and a bunch of bandages/plasters
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Prescription medicine (as per your doctor’s prescription)
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Female toiletries (non-perfumed)
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Cash (that should cover your expenses)
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Black marker for labelling luggage
Other Recommendations
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Strong suitcase of reasonable size is better
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Credit cards are accepted at most places, but AMEX card may not be
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Sunglasses – to keep your eyes safe from sunlight
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Money/ATM cards – many exchange shops & ATMs available locally
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Waist pouch to keep money, passport, and other valuables
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Water bottle
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Plastic bottle for constantly refilling Zamzam throughout the entire journey
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Umbrella – to beat the heat
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Electric shaver/trimmer to shave one’s head (only when not in i’hraam)
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Scissors – should be packed within the check-in luggage only; else it will be confiscated (same applicable to knife, if being carried)
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Quran, Islamic books, notebook, and pen
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Padlock for deposit box
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Spend on Zamzam & dates as a gift for your relatives/friends back home rather than other things
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Liquids should be packed in a clear plastic bag and within 100ml restriction
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What to Wear?
Men
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I’hraam
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Thawb with pajama underneath or any other comfortable ethnic clothing
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Belt and safety pins
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Comfortable sandals/shoes
Women
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Loose and comfortable clothes with pajamas/trousers (Salwaar Kameez)
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Comfortable sandals/shoes
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Abaaya
Note: Amount of walking during ‘Hajj is considerable and hence “we recommend you buying good quality footwear and get accustomed to it by wearing it regularly” before the trip of your life. Crocks are recommended (over flipflops—unless you are accustomed to wearing this) as they dry out quickly and hence assist in performing Wudu regularly with ease.
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Health & Safety Guidelines
Pre-requisite
Please consult with your doctor, in case you have a medical condition, and get to know if you are fit to perform ‘Hajj. In the event of you being fit and require medication, buy enough of it to last throughout the journey
Vaccinations
Following vaccinations need to be taken:
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Covid-19 vaccinations must be approved by the Saudi Ministry of Health
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Pilgrims are required to submit a negative Covid-19 PCR test result from a test performed within 72 hours of the time of departure
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Meningococcal A, C, W135, and Y
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Consult with your GP for any additional vaccination advice
‘Hajj Flu
There is a good chance that you may get it, so be prepared. It could be either severe or light and totally depends upon the immune system—Recommended to have a flu tab before ‘Hajj.
Diet
Be extra cautious before eating the food from outside. Check for hygiene before you purchase. Its recommended to eat plenty of fresh fruit to keep your natural vitamin/mineral intake in balance.
Hydration
Take loads of fluids during ‘Hajj. We recommend you drink plenty of Zamzam water and Laban (yoghurt-based drink) over soft drinks unless you are allergic
Footwear
This document has already emphasized a lot on the importance of good footwear and how to get used to it. Please follow the advice attentively.
For Sisters
You can delay your periods for some time by taking a drug called ‘Norethisterone’. Please consult your gynecologist for timing/dosage information.
Medical Assistance
This will be provided as follows:
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Saudi authority appointed doctors—free consultation
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Doctors present in our ‘Hajj group
Notes:
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Masjid Al-Haram has medical assistance readily available at the following locations (clinics have a white sign with red crescent):
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Bab Ajyad: Door # 5
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Bab Abdul Aziz: Door # 1
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Bab Fatah: Door # 45
2. Hospitals in Makkah: Ajyad Hospital and Noor Hospital
3. Hospitals in Madinah: Saudi German Hospital (located near Masjid Nabawi)
Local Emergency Contact Numbers
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Ambulance: 997
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Police: 999