Frequently Asked Questions

Umrah is a Muslim pilgrimage performed in Makkah. Unlike Hajj, it can be performed at any time of the year. It mainly includes entering the state of Ihram, Tawaf around the Kaaba, Sa'i between Safa and Marwa, and the cutting of hair.

Hajj is a pillar of Islam, obligatory once in a lifetime for every Muslim who has the means. It takes place on specific dates in the Islamic calendar. Umrah is a recommended pilgrimage that can be performed throughout the year and whose rites are simpler.

Yes, it is possible to perform several Umrahs during the same stay. For each new Umrah, one must return to a Miqat or to the Aisha Mosque (Tan'im) in order to enter the state of Ihram again.

Umrah can be performed throughout the year. The most popular periods are Ramadan, school holidays, and the winter months. To avoid crowds and benefit from more favorable rates, the months of Safar, Rabi' al-Awwal, or after Hajj are often recommended.

Most travelers choose a stay of 7 to 12 days. This allows them to visit Makkah and Madinah under good conditions while performing the rites peacefully.

Yes, and an Umrah during Ramadan carries considerable merit. Spots and hotels fill up quickly: book early.

Opinions differ: obligatory according to some schools, highly recommended (sunna mu'akkada) according to others. In all cases, it is strongly encouraged.

Umrah expiates sins committed between two Umrahs, and during Ramadan it is equal in reward to a Hajj, according to prophetic traditions.

Yes, it is permitted to perform Umrah on behalf of a deceased person, provided one has already performed their own Umrah beforehand.

Yes, for deceased parents or those living who are unable to perform it themselves, after having performed one's own Umrah.

There is no minimum age: even infants can be taken there. The child's Ihram is assumed by their guardian.

Yes, every traveller, including children and babies, must have their own visa and file.

Yes for both men and women according to the rules in force. Our supervised group departures remain reassuring for a first trip.

No. Access to Makkah is reserved for Muslims. Madinah is partially accessible but the Prophet's Mosque ﷺ is reserved for Muslims.

Yes, visiting (ziyâra) Madinah and the Prophet's Mosque ﷺ does not require performing Umrah.

Learn the rites, multiply your repentance, settle your debts, ask forgiveness from your loved ones, and set off with a sincere intention and a peaceful heart.

The Talbiyah, the supplications of Tawaf and Sa'i, as well as personal duas. Our guides provide you with a booklet and accompany you on-site.

A practical guide to Umrah rites and a collection of authentic supplications are sufficient. Our advisors can guide you.

Through our reminders before each step, educational videos, and the support of French- and Arabic-speaking guides throughout your stay.

There is no prescribed supplication for each circuit: one may recite free duas, Quran, and dhikr. Between the Yemeni Corner and the Black Stone, one recites « Rabbanâ âtinâ… ».

Free supplications, dhikr, and the recitation of the verse mentioning Safa and Marwa at the start. Our guides pass on the recommended formulas to you.

Yes, several apps exist and the official Nusuk app offers guides. Our teams also accompany you step by step on-site.

Learn the rites in advance, follow your guide, respect the rules of Ihram, and never hesitate to ask our escort your questions.

Umrah comprises four main steps: entering the state of Ihram; Tawaf around the Kaaba; Sa'i between Safa and Marwa; cutting or shortening the hair.

Ihram is the state of consecration entered by the pilgrim before performing the rites of Umrah or Hajj. It involves specific rules and prohibitions.

At the Miqat corresponding to your point of origin, before crossing it. On the plane, you prepare before passing the Miqat; the crew generally announces it.

They depend on the route: Dhul-Hulayfa (Madinah), Al-Juhfa (Egypt/Maghreb/Europe via Jeddah), Yalamlam, Qarn al-Manazil, Dhat 'Irq. Our guides will indicate yours before departure.

It is recommended to: perform the major ablutions; apply perfume (before Ihram only); wear the Ihram garments; state the intention; begin the Talbiyah.

Among the main prohibitions: cutting hair; cutting nails; using perfume after entering Ihram; hunting; contracting a marriage.

Depending on the violation, an expiation (fidya) may be required: fasting, almsgiving or sacrifice. Seek advice from your guide or a scholar for the specific case.

Tawaf consists of performing seven circuits around the Kaaba in a counter-clockwise direction, starting at the level of the Black Stone.

Seven complete circuits around the Kaaba.

The Sa'i consists of walking seven times the distance between the hills of Safa and Marwa in commemoration of Hajar's search for water, mother of the prophet Ismail.

Cutting (taqsīr) or shaving (halq for men) marks the exit from Ihram and the completion of Umrah.

Yes, a woman cuts the equivalent of one phalanx (approximately 2–3 cm) from her entire hair; she does not shave her head.

Yes. You can walk slowly, rest, or use a wheelchair; the validity is not affected.

Yes, wheelchairs are available for hire and porters are available. We can arrange this in advance.

Yes, Tawaf is valid on the ground floor as well as on the upper floors and rooftop, especially during peak periods.

Prepare them, plan for a stroller and breaks, and put them in Ihram. Our guides help families perform the rites peacefully.

The rules may change according to the decisions of the Saudi authorities. Today, many women can perform Umrah without a Mahram under certain administrative conditions.

Administratively yes. On a religious level, opinions differ; many women join a supervised group for greater peace of mind.

Women who are menstruating may perform certain rites but must wait until the end of their period before performing Tawaf.

The female pilgrim pauses Tawaf until the end of her menstrual period, then resumes the rites in accordance with religious rules.

Yes, if her health allows and with medical advice. Plan for rest, a wheelchair if needed, and hydration.

A woman keeps her usual clothing that respects Islamic modesty. No specific garment is required, unlike for men.

No, wearing gloves is forbidden in a state of Ihram; she may cover her hands with a piece of clothing if necessary.

A woman recites the Talbiyah in a low voice, unlike a man who may raise his voice.

The Umrah visa is generally obtained through an accredited agency or directly through platforms authorized by the Saudi authorities. GO-Makkah assists its clients with all administrative procedures and the compilation of the application file.

The price varies depending on the season and the package; it is generally included in our packages. Request a quote for details.

The processing time varies depending on the time of year. On average, the visa is issued within a few business days after validation of the complete application file.

The Umrah visa generally allows a stay of up to 90 days depending on the type issued; check the conditions at the time of application.

Depending on the visa type: some are single-entry, others are multiple-entry. Our advisors will clarify your specific case.

The documents generally required are: passport valid for at least 6 months; recent identity photo; complete traveler contact details; travel booking; additional documents depending on nationality.

As part of a package, flights and visa are managed together by us. For independent bookings, proof of travel may be required.

In the event of a refusal, the exact cause must be identified: missing document, passport error, non-compliant photo or inconsistent information. A new application can often be submitted after correcting the issue.

Yes, a new application is generally possible after correcting the elements that caused the refusal.

Yes, it generally allows travel within the Kingdom (Madinah, Jeddah, etc.); the exact conditions depend on the visa issued.

Extensions are limited and subject to conditions. Contact us to review your situation.

The Umrah visa is dedicated to pilgrimage; the tourist visa (e-Visa) also allows you to perform Umrah and visit the country, under different conditions.

Nationals of countries eligible for the e-Visa, generally online and within a few days.

Yes. For several years, the Saudi authorities have allowed holders of certain tourist visas to perform Umrah, subject to compliance with the rules in force at the time of travel.

The tourist visa is versatile (tourism + Umrah) and often multiple-entry; the Umrah visa is specifically dedicated to the pilgrimage.

Yes, the tourist visa allows visits to the Kingdom's sites such as Riyadh, Jeddah and AlUla.

Often valid for 1 year with multiple entries, with stays of up to 90 days; check the conditions upon application.

The fee depends on the country and includes insurance; our advisors will provide you with the updated cost.

Yes, the tourist e-Visa is generally multiple-entry throughout its validity period.

Nusuk is the official platform of the Saudi authorities designed to manage bookings related to Hajj, Umrah, the Rawdah, as well as the various services intended for pilgrims.

GO-Makkah assists travelers in creating, verifying, and using their Nusuk account in order to avoid the most common mistakes.

After creating your Nusuk account, simply go to the section dedicated to the Rawdah, select an available date and confirm the booking.

For certain procedures, in particular booking the Rawdah and some administrative formalities, a Nusuk account is required.

In the account settings. If you encounter any difficulty, our Nusuk support service will take care of it.

Often due to inconsistent information or multiple attempts. We help you unblock it.

Via the profile settings, after OTP verification. Our support team can guide you.

From the account settings, with code confirmation. Contact us if the OTP is not working.

The most common causes are: incorrect number; wrong email address; message classified as spam; temporary server overload. It is advisable to wait a few minutes before requesting a new code.

From the account settings or by contacting Nusuk support. We can assist you.

No, only one account per person is recommended to avoid blocks.

The Rawdah is the blessed space between the tomb of the Prophet ﷺ and his minbar, described as « a garden among the gardens of Paradise ».

The visit is booked via a permit on the Nusuk app, at a specific time slot. We can arrange it for you.

Generally once per period via the Nusuk permit, in order to manage crowd flow.

Yes, a Nusuk permit is required to access the Rawdah at a given time.

Dedicated time slots are offered throughout the day, often separate for men and women; they are listed in Nusuk.

Yes, subject to the crowd and safety rules in effect at the time.

In front of the tomb, one offers salām to the Prophet ﷺ and then to his companions Abu Bakr and Omar, with respect and calm.

The Prophet's Mosque ﷺ and the Rawdah, Quba, Mount Uhud and the al-Baqi' cemetery, in accordance with the Sunnah.

The choice depends on your budget and desired comfort level. Hotels located in the Clock Towers offer the most immediate proximity to the Sacred Mosque.

From 0 m (direct access, complex towers) to a few hundred metres. We always indicate the exact distance.

The differences mainly concern: the distance to the Haram; the comfort level; the services offered; dining options; the quality of the rooms.

Both orders are possible; it depends on flights and logistics. Our itineraries are optimised to make the most of your stay.

Many hotels located further from the Haram offer free shuttle services to the holy sites.

Most of our hotels include breakfast, or even half-board. This is indicated in the package details.

Yes, in select premium hotels, as an option and subject to availability. Please specify this at the time of booking.

Yes, triple, quadruple and connecting rooms are available depending on the hotel.

By private/group transfer by car or bus (approximately 1h), or via the Haramain train. Transfers are included in our packages.

The high-speed train connects Madinah, Makkah, Jeddah and the airport (KAIA), with ticket booking by schedule.

It varies depending on the class and schedule. We can include it or arrange it for you upon request.

Approximately 4h30 by road, or ~2h30 by Haramain train.

Yes, our packages include airport-hotel and inter-city transfers (depending on the package, by GMC VIP for premium offers).

Yes, with a valid license (international if required). Reminder: access to the center of Makkah is restricted to Muslims.

Yes, ride-hailing apps operate in both cities, in addition to organized transfers.

Meningitis vaccination (ACWY) is required; others may be recommended depending on your profile. Check the up-to-date requirements before departure.

Yes, the meningococcal ACWY vaccine is generally required, along with a valid certificate.

Your regular medications, pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medicine, throat lozenges, bandages and sunscreen. Keep your prescriptions.

Yes, with your doctor's approval, your medications and their prescriptions. Let us know your needs so we can adapt your stay.

Wheelchairs and porters are available at the Haram; we can arrange assistance in advance.

Yes, with an adapted pace, nearby hotels and assistance if needed. Our senior packages are designed for this.

Yes, health centers and hospitals are present in Makkah and Madinah, and our teams will guide you if needed.

Contact your guide and local emergency services (997) immediately. Our 24/7 assistance will support you through the process.

There is no ideal age; the essential thing is to be in sufficient health. We adapt the pace and services.

Often yes: hotel very close to the Haram, wheelchair, enhanced assistance. We arrange this upon request.

Yes, packages with a lighter pace, maximum proximity and dedicated assistance.

Yes, for rental, and pushing services are available. We can book them in advance.

Stay hydrated, split the rituals into stages, choose quieter hours, use the upper floors for Tawaf and get enough rest.

Yes, many families do it. Plan for a stroller, breaks, and a nearby hotel; our guides are there to support you.

Yes, every baby must have their own passport, visa, and file.

Hotels with family/connecting rooms, dining options, and proximity to the Haram. We guide you based on your group's composition.

Yes, depending on the hotel, in limited quantities: book early to take advantage of them.

Organize the rituals in adult-child pairs, plan rest periods, and rely on your guide for logistics.

For its immense reward (equivalent to a Hajj in merit) and the unique spiritual atmosphere of Ramadan nights in Makkah and Madinah.

Prices are higher than in the normal season, especially during the last 10 days. Request a quote for the best offers.

As early as possible (several months in advance) to secure nearby hotels and the best prices.

The last 10 days, for Laylat al-Qadr, are the most sought after; the beginning of the month is quieter and more accessible.

Yes, especially establishments close to the Haram: demand is very high during Ramadan.

Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, a mandatory pilgrimage to be performed once in a lifetime by those who are able, carried out on the specific dates of Dhul-Hijja.

Hajj is obligatory, on fixed dates, with additional rites (Arafat, Muzdalifa, Mina, stoning). Umrah is optional and can be performed throughout the year.

Pre-registrations are open at GO-Makkah. Contact us to reserve your place; quotas are limited.

Any Muslim who has reached puberty, is of sound mind, free, and has the physical and financial means.

Ihram, standing at Arafat, night at Muzdalifah, stoning of the pillars at Mina, sacrifice, Tawaf al-Ifada, Sa'i, then shaving/cutting.

The price depends on the package (economy, comfort, VIP) and services. Request a personalised quote.

Valid passport, Nusuk Hajj file, required vaccinations and additional documents according to your profile; we handle everything.

The ACWY meningitis vaccine is required; other vaccines may be recommended. We will provide you with the up-to-date requirements.

Nusuk centralises Hajj registration, permits and services. GO-Makkah handles your Nusuk Hajj file from A to Z.

Yes, our Hajj departures are supervised by French- and Arabic-speaking guides, with complete logistics at Mina and Arafat.

GO-Makkah accompanies pilgrims at every step: personalised advice; visa management; Nusuk assistance; selected hotels; pre-departure support; assistance during the trip.

Flights, hotels, transfers, visa, accompaniment and assistance. The details vary depending on the package (from economy to VIP).

Yes, we handle your entire Umrah or Hajj visa application.

Yes, we create and manage your Nusuk account, as well as permits (Rawdah, Hajj) with free assistance at every step.

Yes. All GO-Makkah quotes are free, personalised and non-binding.

Mainly Paris and Lyon, as well as Geneva, Brussels and several cities in North Africa and internationally, subject to availability.

By phone at 01 49 87 70 21, by email at [email protected], or via our quote form; we can also call you back.

Yes, VIP & Premium packages: 5★ hotels with Kaaba view, private GMC transfers, concierge service and high-end accompaniment.

Depending on the chosen package and the applicable terms, several payment solutions may be offered to facilitate the organisation of your trip.

Yes, preferential rates are available for families, mosques and associations. Request a group quote.

Yes. Our teams accompany many pilgrims performing their first Umrah every year and assist them with all administrative and religious procedures.