As the Hajj season reaches its peak, the focus for pilgrims shifts from packing to presence, emphasizing the balance between traveling light and carrying essential medical and practical supplies. Iftekhar Hossain, founder of Umrah Companion, told Arab News that overpacking is one of the biggest mistakes pilgrims make. He recommends traveling as light as possible to move comfortably, focus on worship, and avoid unnecessary stress.
Umrah Companion App: A Digital Guide
The Umrah Companion app offers guidance through every major stage of Umrah and Hajj. Developed over seven months with insights from veteran pilgrims and religious scholars, it serves as a pocket-sized mentor to help travelers maximize their time in Makkah and Madinah. Once in Ihram, it provides step-by-step guidance for critical steps, including Tawaf with built-in counters and recommendations for all seven circuits. For Sa’i, the app offers tracking, duas, and key reminders. Despite having no coding experience, Hossain used modern AI tools to bring the project to life, driven by a passion for helping others. Every guide includes references, Arabic text, transliteration, and English translations where relevant. There is also an option to track dua requests from loved ones.
Packing Tips for Hajj
Over 1.5 million pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia from outside the Kingdom for Hajj, making it crucial to pack light while including essentials. Hossain highlighted key items for the holy sites, such as scented products during Ihram, including perfume, scented wipes, deodorant, and lotions. He warned against new or uncomfortable footwear that might cause blisters, making Tawaf and walking difficult. He also discouraged carrying excess cash, expensive jewelry, or valuables that are not truly needed. Large backpacks or bulky bags should be avoided, and clothing should be packed lightly. Most pilgrims overpack and regret it, he said, while stressing the importance of bringing necessary medication.
Medication Guidelines
The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, in partnership with the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, has published a guide on packing and storing medication according to regulations. The authority recommends keeping medication in its original packaging and ensuring it is not exposed to direct sunlight or heat. Water is recommended as the primary liquid for taking medications, and using medications belonging to other pilgrims or patients is strictly prohibited. Essential medication should not be packed in checked luggage. Pilgrims are also advised to carry a certified medical report at all times in both Arabic and English, and prescription medication should be taken until the course is completed.
