Carry your passport, Ihram, comfortable footwear, personal medicines, prayer mat, reusable water bottle, toiletries, and essential travel documents.

Q. What is the first step before performing Umrah?

Before starting Umrah, pilgrims enter the state of Ihram, make the intention (Niyyah), and recite the Talbiyah while traveling towards Makkah.

Q. What is Tawaf, and can it be performed on behalf of someone else?

Tawaf is an important act of worship in Hajj and Umrah, where pilgrims walk around the Holy Kaaba in Masjid Al-Haram, Makkah, seven times in an anti-clockwise direction. It is a beautiful way to express love, devotion, and obedience to Allah.

If a person is physically unable to perform Tawaf due to illness, disability, or old age, they may perform it with assistance, such as using a wheelchair if possible. However, Tawaf cannot be performed independently on behalf of another living person. If Tawaf is part of a valid Hajj or Umrah performed on behalf of someone who has passed away or is permanently unable to perform the pilgrimage, it is included within that Hajj or Umrah.

The Prophet Muhammad (???) said that whoever performs Tawaf around the Kaaba seven times and offers two Rak'ahs of prayer afterward receives a great reward. Every step brings blessings, sins are forgiven, and the person's rank is raised by Allah.

Q. How long does it take to complete Umrah?

Most pilgrims complete Umrah in 2 to 4 hours, depending on the crowd and prayer times inside Masjid Al-Haram.

Q. What is the Talbiyah?

Talbiyah is the special prayer recited after entering Ihram, expressing your intention and answering Allah's call for pilgrimage.

Q. What is Tawaf?

Tawaf is the act of walking around the Holy Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction as a sign of worship and devotion to Allah.

Q. What are the main pillars (Arkan) of Umrah?

The two main pillars of Umrah are Tawaf (circling the Holy Kaaba seven times) and Sa'i (walking between Safa and Marwah seven times). These rituals are essential for completing your Umrah.

How to Visit the Holy Kaaba Kiswa Factory?

The King Abdulaziz Complex for the Holy Kaaba Kiswa in Makkah is where the Kiswa, the sacred cloth covering the Holy Kaaba, is made by skilled craftsmen. Visiting the factory is a unique opportunity to learn about the history and craftsmanship of the Kiswa.

How to Book a Visit

Register on the official Kiswa Factory booking portal.
Log in and submit your visit request.
Complete the required verification.
Choose your preferred date and time.
For group or official visits, a request letter may be required.
Wait for approval before visiting.

Important

Visits are by prior appointment only.
Entry is subject to the latest rules of the King Abdulaziz Complex.
Carry a valid ID and follow all visitor guidelines.

Q. What is Halq or Taqsir?

After completing Tawaf and Sa'i, men shave or trim their hair, while women trim a small portion of their hair. This marks the completion of Umrah.

Q. Can I perform Umrah more than once during one trip?

Yes. You may perform Umrah again during your stay if you follow the latest Saudi guidelines and obtain any required permits.