Umrah

Millions of Muslims, from around the world, travel annually to Mecca in Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, an Islamic pilgrimage. Umrah is a voluntary act of love, devotion, and gratitude to Allah, and this major pilgrimage ritual can be performed at any time of the year. The majority of pilgrims perform the Umrah pilgrimage during Ramadan, or in the two Islamic lunar months leading up to it, Rajab and Sha'ban. During these holy months, Muslims believe that there is more mercy and acceptance of prayers, as well as a greater reward for worshipping. A Muslim can perform Umrah at any age, and the number of times he or she can do so in their lifetime is not limited. However, women under 45 years old have to be accompanied by a mahram, a male relative above 17. Women over 45 years old can travel with tour groups without a mahram. Umrah is a journey to the holiest place of Muslims, the holy Kaaba (House of God) in Mecca. Men and women of different ethnic groups, social statuses, and cultures can make this spiritual journey of faith. It is a journey of devotion to Allah.