The Stages of the Hajj Journey from Start to Finish

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and a profound spiritual experience that engages both the soul and body. The journey begins with the intention (niyyah) and ends with the Farewell Tawaf, passing through spiritually enriching stages filled with worship and devotion. It is the most sacred journey for Muslims worldwide, undertaken with longing, tears, hopes, and continuous glorification of Allah, the One with no partner.

In this article, we will explore the rituals and stages of the Hajj journey, along with the exclusive services provided by Jubari Travel & Tourism to ensure an exceptional pilgrimage experience. Our offerings include religious guidance, healthcare support, and comfortable accommodations to facilitate a smooth and spiritually fulfilling Hajj journey.

The start of the Hajj rituals each year depends on the sighting of the Dhul-Hijjah moon. According to astronomical predictions, Hajj for the year 2025 will begin on the evening of Thursday, July 7, and will continue until the evening of Tuesday, July 12, 2025.

Beginning the Journey: Ihram and Umrah

Your pilgrimage to Mecca begins with Ihram from the designated Miqat (entry point for Ihram), whether traveling by land or air. If you are flying, the pilot will announce the Miqat, at which point you will say:

"Labbayk Allahumma bi ‘Umrah mutamassikan biha ilal Hajj”
(O Allah, I answer Your call for Umrah, holding onto it until Hajj.)

Upon arrival at Jeddah Airport, you will be welcomed by dedicated buses that will transport you to Mecca. A religious guide will explain the Hajj and Umrah rituals during the journey. You will then proceed to the Grand Mosque to perform Umrah, after which you will exit the state of Ihram and prepare for Hajj.

During this period, you may also perform an additional Umrah either on your behalf or on behalf of a deceased or physically incapable loved one.

Preparing for Hajj

In the ten days leading up to Hajj, you will have the opportunity to visit significant religious sites in Mecca, such as Hira Cave, where the first revelation descended upon Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). You can also attend educational sessions organized by our religious guides and relax in well-equipped accommodations to prepare for the sacred rituals ahead.

Detailed Stages of Hajj

Day 1: Tarwiyah Day (8 Dhul-Hijjah)

• Travel to Mina and spend the night there.
• Perform the five daily prayers in shortened form but not combined.
• Dedicate time to remembrance and supplication.
  
  

Day 2: Arafah Day (9 Dhul-Hijjah)

• Depart for Arafah and spend the day in prayer and supplication.
• Listen to the Arafah sermon from religious scholars.
• After sunset, travel to Muzdalifah and stay overnight.
  
  

Day 3: Eid al-Adha (10 Dhul-Hijjah)

• Proceed to Mina for stoning the Jamarat (throwing stones at the largest pillar).
• Perform haircut or trimming as part of the ritual.
• Go to the Grand Mosque for Tawaf Al-Ifadah.
• Return to your accommodation for rest.
  

Days of Tashreeq (11-13 Dhul-Hijjah)

• Spend the nights in Mina and continue stoning all three Jamarat daily.
• Perform Tawaf Al-Wada’ (Farewell Tawaf) before leaving Mecca.
  
  

Visiting Madinah

After completing the Hajj rituals, you may choose to visit Madinah to explore its rich Islamic heritage. Some notable sites include:

• Quba Mosque: The first mosque built by the Prophet (ﷺ), offering the reward of an Umrah for those who pray in it.
  
  
   
• Uhud Martyrs’ Cemetery: The resting place of the companions who were martyred in the Battle of Uhud, including Hamza ibn Abdul Muttalib.
• Baqi Cemetery: The burial site of many of the Prophet’s family and companions.
• Date Farms: A chance to purchase the famous Ajwa dates.
• King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Quran: A world-renowned Quran printing facility ensuring high-quality production.

Jubari Travel’s Exclusive Hajj Services

With Jubari Travel, you will receive comprehensive services, including:

✔ Comfortable accommodations in Mecca and Madinah.
✔ Fully equipped camps in Mina and Arafah.
✔ Religious supervision by scholars specializing in Hajj jurisprudence.
✔ Medical care available throughout the journey.
✔ Reliable transportation that adheres to the highest standards.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Hajj

• Not entering Ihram from the Miqat: Always ensure to enter Ihram at the designated points.
• Applying perfume after entering Ihram: Fragrance should not be used once in Ihram.
• Touching the Kaaba’s walls and curtains: It is recommended to only kiss the Black Stone and touch the Yemeni Corner.
• Running throughout the entire Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah): Running is only required between the two green markers.

Concluding the Journey: The Farewell Tawaf

After completing all the Hajj rituals and staying in Mina, you will return to the Grand Mosque for the Farewell Tawaf, bidding farewell to the sacred city with a heart full of devotion and humility.

It is recommended to offer two units of prayer and recite this supplication at Al-Multazam (the area between the Kaaba’s door and the Black Stone):

"O Allah, this is Your House, and I am Your servant, the son of Your servant and Your maidservant. You carried me on what You subjected to me of Your creation until You brought me to Your land and granted me the honor of completing Your sacred rituals. If You have accepted my Hajj, then increase Your pleasure with me. And if not, then grant me Your mercy before I depart. O Allah, accompany me with good health in my body, safeguard my faith, bless my return, and grant me obedience for as long as I live."

Hajj with Jubari Travel is not just about performing rituals; it is a comprehensive spiritual experience designed to bring ease, devotion, and serenity from the beginning to the end of your sacred journey.

May Allah accept your Hajj and grant you His infinite mercy and forgiveness.