For Muslims across the globe, the pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah represents a profound spiritual milestone. Islam recognises two types of pilgrimages — Hajj and Umrah — both deeply meaningful yet different in purpose, scale, and timing. Understanding these differences helps shed light on the unique role each one holds within the faith.
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is a mandatory religious duty for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it, to be performed once in a lifetime. It takes place during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, specifically from the 8th to the 12th day. The rituals of Hajj are specific and follow a fixed sequence, including:
Due to its obligation and limited time frame, Hajj draws millions of pilgrims from around the globe, making it one of the largest annual gatherings in the world.
Umrah, often called the lesser or minor pilgrimage, is a non-obligatory act of worship that can be performed any time of the year. It includes fewer rituals and takes less time to complete, typically just a few hours. The core acts include:
While not an obligation, performing Umrah is highly recommended and holds great spiritual value. Many Muslims choose to perform Umrah multiple times, especially during the holy month of Ramadan when rewards are believed to be multiplied.
Choosing between Hajj and Umrah often depends on factors such as your financial readiness, physical health, availability, and spiritual goals. Hajj requires longer preparation due to its time-bound nature, visa quotas, and larger crowds. Umrah, on the other hand, is ideal for those seeking a more intimate spiritual experience or looking to gradually prepare for Hajj.
Preparing for your Hajj or Umrah trip isn’t just about finding the right travel plan — it’s also about staying close to those who matter the most. CelcomDigi's roaming passes and 50-day Hajj Roaming Pass are designed to keep you connected with your loved ones back home so that you can complete your spiritual journey with peace of mind.
Both Hajj and Umrah are profound acts of faith that renew the soul and deepen spiritual growth. Each pilgrimage brings its own unique blessings, reminding pilgrims of devotion, humility, and the true purpose of their journey.
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