There has been a rise in the demand for Umrah by many residents from the United Arab Emirates. This has specifically increased after the ease of travel between the UAE and Saudi Arabia. As such, E-visas and affordable packages seem to have contributed to this phenomenon.
A Rise In Demand For Umrah By UAE Residents
Surely, the steps you take between Safa and Marwa are overwhelmed with certitude.#Makkah_in_Our_Hearts pic.twitter.com/6f1brMkAks
— Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (@MoHU_En) November 9, 2023
According to a report by the Khaleej Times, it was revealed that due to the affordable packages and introductions of E-visas, there’s been an increased demand for Umrah by the people in living in the UAE. Several tourism companies have, as a result, designed cost-effective packages, which help people in their spiritual pilgrimage. Not to mention, these budget-friendly packages, sometimes start for as low as AED600 per person. And the best part about such packages is that they aren’t just affordable, but even convenient! We say this because often such packages include travelling by bus.
Packages Sometimes Start For As Low As AED600
I abandoned my worldly glee and enchantment for the sake of immersing in Your Divine solitude.#Makkah_in_Our_Hearts pic.twitter.com/7vJTkQGaHh
— Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (@MoHU_En) November 9, 2023
Moreover, as there is an increased demand for Umrah, tour operators have also created packages that are specific for individuals, couples, colleagues, and even families. Not to mention, some are even inclusive of Umrah Visa, without visas (meaning, those who already have one), or a one-year Umrah E-visa. At this point, it’s worth mentioning that these packages sometimes go all the way up to AED1700. But of course, the price of the package ultimately depends on the type of accommodation and food demanded by the customers.
There Are Even Luxury Packages!
In this hallowed land, they arrive as strangers, but their hearts entwine, and through Allah's grace, they emerge as brethren.#Makkah_in_Our_Hearts pic.twitter.com/mL1a9IeCHu
— Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (@MoHU_En) November 8, 2023
As it happens, packages which include flights often start at AED2000. However, this also ultimately depends on the type of flight ticket that people choose. Not to mention, there are also several people according to tour operators, who often tend to choose luxury packages. As these packages start at AED3900, according to the same report, these are inclusive of premium hotel accommodations that are often in close proximity to the sacred site.
What Is Umrah?
In case you are still unaware, Umrah is a religious duty performed by Muslims from around the world. Although it is non-obligatory, it is still important for Muslims to visit the holy city of Masjid al-Haram in Mecca. As it happens, it can be undertaken at any time of the year.
Ministry Of Hajj & Umrah Often Releases Notifications For Pilgrims
To maintain a sense of humility during prayer, let's perform it in the designated locations.#Makkah_in_Our_Hearts pic.twitter.com/Zq5kFiulda
— Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (@MoHU_En) November 8, 2023
At this point, It’s worth mentioning that the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia often releases important directions for pilgrims to follow while performing the sacred duty. In one such recent notification, they released the guidelines for prayers in the hallway. Advising people to pray in the designated areas, they asked people to steer clear of praying in the pedestrian walkways, entrances & exits, and car parking. Not to mention, following these guidelines also ensures that the prayers of devote are not only respectful to others but also prevent them from causing any inconvenience to other pilgrims.
Cover Image Courtesy: Media Library
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