Practical, physical and emotional readiness
Preparing for the journey
Preparing is not only about the suitcase: a body strong enough to walk, a soul patient with the crowds, and rights returned before you travel.
Packing checklist
Tick what you have done. Official requirements change, so check them on the Nusuk platform and with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
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Documents and permits
Bookings
Medicine and health
Clothes and bag
Before you travel
For Hajj only
My own items
A gradual walking plan
Sa‘i alone is about 3 km (seven laps of about 450 metres each), and tawaf can be more than a kilometre when it is crowded, on top of walking to and from your accommodation. In Hajj there is even more walking between the holy sites.
- Week 1 20 minutes a day Easy walking, 5 days a week.
- Week 2 25 minutes a day Add a little time, and try walking in the shoes you will travel in.
- Week 3 30 minutes a day Once a week, walk somewhere crowded, like a market.
- Week 4 35 minutes a day Try climbing stairs and walking continuously without stopping.
- Week 5 45 minutes a day One day a week, walk 60–75 minutes: roughly the distance of tawaf and sa‘i.
- Week 6 50 minutes a day Keep this level, and focus on rest and sleep.
- Week 7 35 minutes a day Reduce the time so your body arrives rested on travel day.
A general plan for someone in good health. Anyone with a chronic illness, joint or heart pain, or of advanced age should consult their doctor before increasing their effort. Tawaf and sa‘i in a wheelchair are allowed for anyone who needs it.
Emotional and moral readiness
Before you travel
Return what you owe, pay your debts or write them down, ask forgiveness from those you need to, and visit your parents and ask for their prayers.
Crowds and waiting
Expect them, and decide in advance to meet them with patience. Do not push to kiss the Black Stone: harming others is forbidden, while kissing it is only sunnah.
Good companionship
Help the weak and the elderly, smile at those around you, and leave arguments even when you are right.
A present heart
Take fewer photos, and switch off your phone during worship. Being present with Allah matters more than recording the moment.
After the journey
The Prophet ﷺ said: “The most beloved deeds to Allah are the most constant, even if small” (al-Bukhari and Muslim). Choose small habits you can keep up.
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