Planning your own Umrah trip from South Africa can feel overwhelming at first- with visas, transport, bookings, and unfamiliar apps to figure out. However, once you understand the simple steps and know what to expect on the ground in Makkah and Madinah, the entire journey becomes much easier and far more enjoyable. This guide breaks everything down into clear, practical steps, from choosing the right transport to using the Nusuk app, managing eSIMs, and navigating city travel with ease. Whether it’s your first Umrah or you are traveling again, these insights can help you plan confidently, Inshallah.
Step 1: Choose your dates
Decide how many days you want in Makkah and Madinah. Things to consider when determining dates:
- Do you want 1 Jumuah each in Makkah and Madinah?
- Try to get one Saturday in Madinah to visit Masjid Quba.
Step 2: Apply for your visa
- Use a Saudi-approved agent in South Africa OR
- Apply for a Saudi tourist e-visa online.
- A tourist visa can be applied for independently, but an Umrah visa can only be obtained through an accredited agent.
- Before selecting your visa type, ensure you understand the differences between the Tourist and Umrah visas. There are pros and cons to each.
Step 3: Book your flights
Compare all airlines and select the best option for you. Check with your local bank or medical aid for possible discounts. Regarding flight times, if you are entering Makkah first, see if you can have a sufficient layover to put on your Ihraam.
Here is a simple guide on how to earn miles and points on flights and accommodation.
Step 4: Book your accommodation
Hotels close to the Haramain are a bit more expensive than those further away. It’s important to budget accordingly and select the hotels that suit your location and budget. It is advised to look at Google Maps for the location of the hotel, as this will help you decide where to stay.
Hotel options in Makkah and Madinah
Step 5: Arrange transport
Airport → Hotel
- A taxi/Uber is an easy form of transportation from the airport to your Hotel (easy and fast).
- In Madinah, you can make use of the Madinah Bus as a cost-effective form of transportation.
Within the cities
- Uber works very well in both Makkah and Madinah.
Makkah ↔ Madinah travel
- The train (Haramain HHR) can be booked through the app.
- The train is a quicker form of transport between the 2 Holy Cities. Please note that you will still need transportation from your hotel to the train station for departure and from the train station to your hotel upon arrival.
- Private transport may be easier depending on your needs, the amount of luggage, and the number of people travelling.
Step 6: Plan your itinerary
Rawdah / Nusuk booking
- Nusuk is a separate app.
- For instant track, you must be near Masjid Nabawi for it to show available slots.
- You can make your Rawdah booking via the Nusuk App a few days before you enter Madinah. Keep checking the Nusuk app for available slots. These slots cannot be booked very far in advance.
- They give you a QR code, which is scanned before entry.
- You get ±20 minutes inside. This differs depending on the time of the year and how busy it is.
Step 7: Budget & finance
Plan for meals, shopping, transport, and carry a credit card/global card and some riyals in cash.
Activate your bank card for international travel if needed. This might not be required for all banks.
Step 8: Prepare your connectivity
- WhatsApp calls generally don’t work in Saudi Arabia – you will need a VPN. You could use Botim as an alternative to WhatsApp for calling.
- An eSIM is very helpful. Some options below include:
- Airalo
- MobiMatter
- Nomad
- You could also purchase a physical SIM card at the airport upon landing. Select the network and package that is suitable for you, taking into account the number of days you will be in Saudi Arabia.
Step 9: Health requirements
Check if the meningitis vaccine is needed. The vaccine requirements change frequently. Sometimes the vaccine cards are checked. It is always advisable to have your vaccines up to date so you do not run into any issues upon landing in Saudi Arabia.
Step 10: Pack essentials
Ihram, abayas/kurtahs, shoes, adapters, small bag, meds, snacks. With regards to medication, there are pharmacies in Saudi Arabia that you can purchase meds from as well.
Please note: Saudi regulations are subject to change. Always confirm the latest updates with your local agents – including, but not limited to, the Nusuk app, visa rules, vaccination requirements, and travel guidelines.
May Allah grant us all the opportunity to be His guests in Makkah and Madinah many times, Inshallah.