I get so many questions about Solo Umrah travel tips, so let’s dive in because I have been solo for Umrah several times on top of all the others I have. Solo Umrah for Muslim women is a deeply rewarding and empowering experience.
As a solo female traveller, I have found it to be a journey of spiritual uplift and personal growth. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share practical tips and personal insights to help you prepare for a fulfilling solo Umrah journey. From addressing safety concerns to essential travel tips and what to wear, let’s delve into the enriching experience of solo Umrah for Muslim women.
Solo Umrah Travel Tips Making Your Pilgrimage Easier
1. Can you go to Umrah alone?
The law says you can go for Umrah alone, you can issue yourself a visa or visa waiver and travel as a single woman for tourism for Umrah.
Now, Islamically, this depends on your school of thought, your level of religiosity, and how you feel about it. Personally, I agree with the opinion that it is safe, and since now it is much safer to travel alone as a woman without crossing a desert on a camel, I guess you are also thinking of going. Since you are reading this article on solo Umrah travel, I guess you are also thinking of going.
I also however have friends who travel only with their mahram anywhere they go over 30miles. So again depends on how you feel about it. Honestly, I don’t believe anyone can make this decision for you because you will find scholars on both sides of the argument on women travelling alone in Islam.
I went to Umrah earlier this year with my daughter and best friends as a solo Umrah girl’s trip, and it was so much fun.
2. Is it safe to travel alone to visit Saudi Arabia for Umrah?
If you are confident about travelling as a solo Muslim woman anywhere in the world and visiting Saudia Arabia for Umrah, being alone as a woman is not different.
It is a Muslim country, and it is safe, especially in Makkah and Medinah. Is there petty crime and things like that? Yes, of course. It would help if you exercised normal precautions like anywhere else, but I have never had an incident.
I lived in Saudi Arabia for nearly a year and five years in Doha, Qatar. I have taken taxis on several occasions by myself without a problem, and I feel safe walking around the Haram areas in Makkah and Medinah, even at night.
I also felt safe exploring other major cities in Saudi Arabia, and Jeddah is lovely to visit if you have time. I love the corniche and highly recommend a spa day at Oriana.
3. The rituals of Umrah as a Muslim woman
The rituals for Umrah are not that many and I know for some it is mostly overwhelming planning an Umrah because it is emotional, however in practical terms it is as any other trip.
Umrah, in total, takes around 2 hours, depending on when you decide to do Umrah.
As a Muslim woman solo you are allowed to complete your Umrah rituals alone. I mean, at the end of the day, the whole Umrah is between you and Allah.
Also you have the added benefit of not needing to wear ihram. You just make your intention before the Meeqat point and you can wear your abaya and hijab on the flight then.
Once you are in Makkah, the process takes around 2 hours.
I also have a step-by-step video on what to expect when performing Umrah alone.
You will need to cut a small piece of your hair. The first time I did Umrah, I cut a big chunk, and then after watching several videos online by Sh Yasir Qadhi, I realized it is only a small piece you do.
I carry a small scissors with me and do it before exiting the mosque. Then, I can relax and reward myself with a coffee. Trust me, you will need it.
4. Practical Solo Umrah Travel tips for women
This is not Umrah-specific, but I do this every time I visit a new country. I get an e-sim before I leave the airport, and I usually order an e-share ride like Uber or Careem.
I feel safer because I can share location and tracking information with family and friends. Also, with the e-sim, I have internet, so I can call in case of an emergency.
Careem in Saudi Arabia is more popular, and once you exit the airport terminal in both Jeddah and Medinah, you will see a sign that they have a dedicated pick-up and drop-off area. So you can easily navigate it.
For transportation between the two cities without a doubt the Haramain train for which I have a full guide on how to book tickets. You can also read my review of both classes economy and business as well. If booked in advice you can have a good deal on them from as little as £10 one way.
For hotels in Makkah and Medinah, I prefer staying close to the Haram because I like the flexibility and the option to go to my room and rest between prayers. You can read more about my favourite hotels in Makkah and all the options I have sourced in Medinah for Umrah.
5. What to wear for Umrah and Saudi Arabia
Packing tips and advice for solo Umrah for women is so popular, and I have a post on what to pack for Umrah.
Generally now, though, after going for so many times, I usually pack a couple of cotton abaya, maxi dresses, and leggings.
My favourite shoes are the Birkenstock beach edition and the all fabric trainers because they are breathable and comfy.
I also carry with me my anti-theft Pacsafe bag and I absolutely love it. I also have recommendations for products you might need to be linked in my Amazon store to help you. But also don’t worry.
Everything you might need will be available in the shops, I know you might not have time but trust me there will be. If you forget your toothbrush or a toilet seat, Bin Dawoud (the supermarket in Makkah and Medinah ) will have it.
I mean, we bought these fan hats for £10, and we loved them. Did we need them? No, but we had fun with them.
Overall going solo Umrah as a Muslim woman in Saudi Arabia is safe and you can definitely enjoy it.
Umrah is such a spiritual uplift, and in today’s world, I feel it is much needed. I have had many Muslim women readers who have gone and said they loved it and felt safe.
More article to read to help you plan your Umrah
The Ultimate Guide to DIY Umrah– Everything you need to plan your own Umrah
20 Safety Tips for Muslim Solo Female Travelers: The Ultimate Guide to Fearless Adventures!