For many Muslims, the holy city of Mecca is a place that they have always dreamed of visiting. And while there are many who make the pilgrimage every year, known as the Hajj, there are also those who undertake the shorter journey of the Umrah. If you are a Pakistani citizen planning on making the Umrah, this guide will tell you everything you need to know, from applying for a visa to finding things to do during your stay.
Visa requirements for Pakistani citizens
Visa requirements for Pakistani citizens
In order to make the journey to Mecca for Umrah, Pakistani citizens need to fulfill a few requirements in order to obtain a visa. The first is that they must have a valid passport. Secondly, they will need to apply for a visa through the Saudi Arabian Embassy- the cost of which is $131 and is valid for multiple entries over the course of one year. It is important to note that you will need to provide proof of travel insurance with your application. The processing time for the visa is usually about two weeks.
Flights from Pakistan to Jeddah
There are a few different airlines that operate flights from Pakistan to Jeddah, the most popular being Saudia, Pakistan International Airlines, and flynas. The flight time from Pakistan to Jeddah is usually around 7 hours, and the cost of a round-trip ticket ranges from $600-$1200. Most flights make a stop in another city in Saudi Arabia before continuing on to Jeddah.
Accommodation in Saudi Arabia
There are many accommodation options available for those travelling to Saudi Arabia for Umrah. Hotels are plentiful in the cities of Mecca and Medina, and there are also many other types of lodging such as apartments, hostels, and guesthouses. Do some research online to find the best option for you based on your budget and preferred amenities. Once you have found a place to stay, book your room and check in at the front desk. If you have any problems with your room, call the front desk and they will send someone to fix it. When you check out of your hotel, make sure to return your key to the front desk.
Transportation during the umrah
There are a few different transportation options available to those completing a 30 day umrah from Pakistan. The most common option is to take a bus, which can be booked through a travel agency or online. The cost of a bus ticket is usually around $60, and the journey takes approximately 24 hours. Another option is to take a taxi, which is more expensive but faster. The cost of a taxi from Pakistan to Jeddah is typically around $250, and the journey takes approximately 12 hours. Finally, it is also possible to walk, although this is not recommended due to the high temperatures in Saudi Arabia.
Things to do in Saudi Arabia
There are a variety of things to do during a 30 day umrah in Saudi Arabia. This includes visiting the Islamic holy cities of Mecca and Medina, seeing the historical sites in Jeddah, exploring the desert landscapes in Najran, visiting the archaeological site of Mada’in Saleh, and enjoying the natural beauty of Asir National Park.
Mecca is the holiest city in Islam and is home to the Masjid al-Haram, which contains the Kaaba. Medina is also a very important city for Muslims as it is where the Prophet Muhammad is buried. Both of these cities are located in Saudi Arabia and can be visited during a 30 day umrah.
Jeddah is another city located in Saudi Arabia that has many historical sites worth seeing. This includes Al-Balad, which is the old city center of Jeddah, and Al-Shati District, which is home to many traditional style houses. There are also a number of museums in Jeddah that are worth visiting, such as The King Fahd Fountain and The Floating Mosque.
Najran is a city located in southwestern Saudi Arabia near the border with Yemen. The city is known for its desert landscapes and there are a number of different ways to explore them. This includes going on camel rides, 4×4 safaris, and hot air balloon rides.
Mada’in Saleh is an archaeological site located in northwestern Saudi Arabia. The site was once inhabited by the Nabataeans and contains over 100 tombs carved into rocks. Mada’in Saleh is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is definitely worth visiting during a 30 day umrah.
Asir National Park is located in southwestern Saudi Arabia and is known for its mountains, valleys, waterfalls, forests, and wildlife. The park also has some ancient ruins from the Himyarite Kingdom that are worth seeing.
