Your Personal Guide to Hajj Umrah Ziyarat

Your Personal Guide to Hajj Umrah Ziyarat28%

Your Personal Guide to Hajj Umrah Ziyarat Author:
Publisher: www.al-islam.org
Category: Supplications and Ziyarat

Your Personal Guide to Hajj Umrah Ziyarat
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Your Personal Guide to Hajj Umrah Ziyarat

Your Personal Guide to Hajj Umrah Ziyarat

Author:
Publisher: www.al-islam.org
English

Notice:
This booklet is for 1998.

Ziyarat of Iran

Please refer to page numbers 05 to 14, which are very important except for a few changes to Ziyarat in Iran which, are mentioned below.

Information for Iran Visa

You must obtain your Visa from the country of your residence before you proceed to Iran. If you are going to go to Iraq from Iran then please make sure that you have a multiple visa for Iran otherwise you will have problem on your return from Iraq. If you have joined a group then your group organizer will be responsible for obtaining your Visa.

Hotels & Restaurants

In addition to five stars hotels mentioned in this booklet, there are also many 2 and 3 star hotels at the city centre, and they are affordable. There is also a Pilgrims House managed by the Kanji family.

Transportation

Taxis are very cheap in Iran.

Traveller’s Cheques

It is very difficult to cash your traveler’s cheques we advise you to carry US Dollars bills in large denomination.

Currencies

There is exchange control in Iran and Zuwars are advised not to cash their currency in stores but to go to the banks. It is difficult to cash Traveler’s cheques and we recommend

you carry US Dollars bills with you in large denomination for better rate. If you have joined a group then the group organizer can assist you in exchanging your currency.

Exchange only what you think you will need. You will not be able to reconvert the Iranian Riyals or Tumans into US Dollars.

The rate of exchange fluctuates against the American Dollar and the rate in December 1997 was about 350/400 Iranian to one US Dollar.

Weather

Temperatures vary considerably from season to season and from one place to another. During the months of December, January, February and March are very cold and you will require thermal undergarments, winter coat and winter gloves.

March, April, August, September and October and are pleasant months.

June and July are very hot.

Every Monday and Thursday there is a flight by AIR IRAN to Teheran Mehrabad International Airport, which is about 7 km away from the city.

The flight departs Damascus late in the evening and arrives in Teheran at about 11:00 PM. Make sure before you depart Damascus that you have a confirmed ticket Teheran/Mashad/Teheran otherwise you will have a lot of problem.

If you have joined a group then the organizer of your group will take care of everything.

After clearing Immigration and customs you will proceed to your hotel and rest for the night.

You are required to declare the following, and if you do not then at the time of your arrival (you may get into trouble when leaving Iran).

Import Into Iran

1. There is no restriction of the Foreign Currency but the amount must be declared upon arrival at the airport.

2. All Video and camera equipment must be declared.

Export Allowances

1. Every passenger may take one hand-woven carpet or two rugs (a maximum size of 12 sq. m) provided that they are not antiques.

2. Every passenger may, when departing the country, carry 150 grams of wrought gold without gems and upto 3 kgs of wrought silverware without gems.

Our experience tells us that you should include the following items in your list of souvenirs. Saffron, pistachio, different kinds of pastries, nuts, dates, gems like aqeeq, feeroza, dur al-najaf and other. Also all kinds of Tasbih and small decorative placements where you would keep your sajdagha when saying your Salaat.

Teheran/Qum

The next day early in the morning you should proceed to Qum to visit the Raudhah of Janabe Masuma Fatima Binte Imam Musa al-Kadhim A.S. and the sister of Imam Ridha’ A.S. On your way back to Teheran you should visit Masjid al-Jumkaran, Mazaar of Imam Khomeini and Bashete Zahra.

Qum - Raudhah Of Janab al-Masuma Fatima Binte Imam Musa al-Kadhim A.S.

She was the daughter of our 7th Imam, Imam Musa al-Kadhim A.S. and the sister of Imam Ali Ridha’ A.S. Her mother’s name was Ummul Banin Najma. The meaning of Qum is to “stand” as the ship of Nabi Nooh A.S. had stopped here. It is said that our 12th Imam A.S. will start Jehad from here.

The Holy Prophet (SAW) said 150 years before the death of Masuma al-Qum one of his daughter would be buried in Qum, where many Mujtahids and A’alems will be ready to preach.

After the departure of Imam Ridha’ A.S. from Medina, she missed his brother so much that she decided to go to Mashad also known as Khorasan to meet him. When she arrived Qum, which is on the way to Mashad, she got the news that the Imam had been poisoned and had died.

She was very upset and became ill. Within 40 days of the death of the Imam, she passed away in Qum. When she was buried, they found her grave had already been dug. Two men came with Nikab (covered faces) and led Namaaz al-Janaaza and buried her. Our 7th Imam A.S. is recorded to have said that before visiting him in Mashad you should first visit his sister in Qum, and that who ever visits her shall enter Jannat.

Masjid al-Jumkaran

Hassan Bin Maslah by the order of our 12th IMAM HAZRAT MAHDI A.S built this Masjid. The Imam has said that to pray four rakaat Salaat in this Masjid is equal to the thawab of praying inside Khan al-Ka’aba.

It is narrated that Imam Mahdi A.S. visits this Masjid every Tuesday night. There is a well behind this Masjid and Zuwar write AREEZA asking the Imam to take their Haajat to Allah (SWT) and they put it in this well.

Sheikh Saleh (Hassan Maslah Jamkarany) narrates in his book that one Thursday night eve 17th of Ramadhan, and he was sleeping in Jamkaran site (small village) when suddenly he heard someone knocking at the door. He opened it and saw a couple of Sheikhs (clergymen) who after saluting him asked him to follow them, telling him that his master wanted to see you. He went with them to a place, where Masjid al-Jumkaran (now stands). He saw a throne and a very nice carpet on the floor and a young man of about 30 years of age sitting on it and he was informed that he (the person sitting on the throne) was our 12th Imam A.S. An old man was sitting beside him and was reading a book and more than 60 people in green and white robe were praying around the throne. Later on, he was made to understand that the old man was Nabi Khizr A.S.

Our Imam called Sheikh Saleh by his name and told him to tell the people that they were planting on land, which was not just for planting. They had to pay back all the profit they made from the crops and that with the proceeds they were to build a Masjid on this land. This is a very sacred land and Allah (SWT) picked it from all others.

Sheikh Saleh told the Imam that the people would not believe him and the Imam should give him some sign or a letter. The Imam replied that some kind of a sign at the site would be put till the people would accept his message.

So, go and deliver my message to them to build the Masjid from “ardeha” funds from our private property. Tell the people that this is a very sacred place of they should recite four rakaats Salaat. Two rakaats with the Niyyat of "Tahiyat al-Masjid” and the other two rakaats are for “Imam al-Dhamana A.S.” The Imam further said that each person that recite these four rakaats will get the thawab of reciting inside the Khan al-Ka'aba.

The Imam further said that among the sheep of “Jaafar Kashany”, a shepherd, there is a black and white sheep, which Sheikh Saleh must buy and sacrifice on this land and then distribute the meat among the sick and the poor Allah (SWT) will then heal. He further writes in his book that he returned to his house but could not get any sleep and was thinking until morning. After Salaat al-Fajr he immediately went to the place the Imam had mentioned and found that a boundary of chains had already been put around the land and that was the sign of the area.

Sheikh Saleh further writes that he then went to Qum and when reaching the house that he was asked to visit, he met a man waiting for him at the door and said to him that his master had been waiting to see him since Fajr. He was escorted inside the house and after exchanging salaams the Sayyid then asked Sheikh Saleh whether his name was Hassan Maslah, to which he replied yes. He told me that he dreamed last night that he will be coming to see him and whatever he was asked in his dream he should act accordingly. Sheikh Hassan Maslah, repeated his whole dream and after we went towards the land designated for the Masjid, we saw Jaafar Kashany the shepherd and among his flock of sheep we saw the white and black sheep who was at the end of the flock. The shepherd swore that he had never seen that sheep before in his flock and how hard he tried to catch he was not able.

Sheikh Hassan Maslah Jamkarany said the sheep came to him as if it knows him for years. He caught it and sacrificed it on the land and distributed the meat as per instructions in his dream.

The Masjid was then erected and the chains that were around the plot was removed and taken to Qum. The sick used to visit him and rub their bodies against the chains and they would be healed.

After the death of Sheikh Hassan Maslah Jamkarany all the chains disappeared.

Teheran - Ziyaraats

Raudhah of Shah Abdul Azim

He was the great grandson of Imam Hassan A.S.

Raudhah of Imamzada Saleh Bin Imam Moosa al-Kadhim A.S.

He was the brother of Imam Ridha’ A.S.

Raudhah of Janabe Hamza Bin Abul Qasim Ibne Imam Moosa al-Kadhim A.S.

He was the grand son of Imam Musa al-Kadhim A.S.

Raudhah of Sayyed Tahir

It is said that he was one of the sons of Imam Zainul Abedeen A.S.

Raudhah of Sheikh Sudduque

He was a great A’alem and was born by the dua of our 12th Imam A.S.

Koahe Bibi Shahrbanoo A.S.

She was the wife of Imam Husayn A.S. and the mother of Ali Asghar. It is narrated that Imam Husayn A.S. instructed Bibi Shahrbanoo that after he is martyred in Karbala’ she should mount the white horse “Zuljana” who will take her back to Iran.

She followed the instructions and truly “Zuljana” took her took her to Iran but her brothers in Iran did not accept her since she married an Arab so she was very sad. She went to live on the mountains of Shimran and it is believed that she entered one of the caves and never returned.

People come here with their Haajat and are fulfilled.

Museum of Teheran

Formerly this was the palace of Shah Reza and if you get a chance and time you should visit it.

Teheran/Mashad

You must make sure that you have a confirmed ticket Teheran/Mashad/Teheran otherwise it will be difficult to get a seat on the flight.

Mashad

Raudhah of Imam Ali Ridha’ A.S.

He was born in Medina on Thursday 11th Zilkaad in the year 148 A.H. He was the son of our 7th Imam - Imam

Musa al-Kadhim A.S. and his mother’s name was Ummul Banin Najma. Upon the death of his father, he became Imam, at the age of 35 years. Imam Ridha’ A.S. lived in Medina, but Mamoon invited him to Mashad also known as Khorasan. Mamoon’s main aim was to subdue the troubled Persian Province and he realized that Imam Ridha’ A.S. was the only person who can achieve peace in Iran formerly known as Persia.

The Imam was reluctant to leave Medina, where he was leading a quite life, but under the circumstances, he had no choice, so he came to Khorasan. On arrival, Mamoon

gave the Imam a royal reception and treated him with honour and declared his intention of making the Imam his successor.

Imam Ridha’ A.S. told Mamoon openly “I know why you are doing this but there is no point in refusing because my death will come before yours.” Mamoon forced the Imam and thus on 27th Ramadhan in the year 201 A.H., Imam Ridha’ A.S. was officially designated as Mammon’s heir. A gold coin was minted in the name of the Imam A.S. Distribution of this coin amongst the people subdued the enemies of the emporia and Mamoon’s purpose was accomplished. Within 18 months, Persia was under control. Later Mamoon poisoned the Imam by feeding him with poisoned grapes, and made a great show of his sorrow. Thus our 8th Imam - Imam Ali Ridha’ A.S. died on 17th Safar 203 A.H. at the age of 55 years and is buried here.

Our Imam is also well known as “Imam Dhamin” and this is due to a famous story narrated by historian that one day was travelling he saw a hunter capture a deer and wanted to slay it but he saw that the dear was crying and had tears in her eyes. The deer addressed our Imam in her language, and told him that she had babies who needed to be fed by her and that he should request the hunter to let her go and feed her babies first. The Imam fully understood the language of the dear and told the hunter to let the deer go and that after she fed her babies she would return to the hunter. The hunter was not prepared to listen to this and told the Imam if he will guaranty the return of the mother deer then, he will let her go. The Imam guaranteed and that is why he is known as Imam Dhamin.

If you visit the huge lecture room which was been built after the birth of the Islamic Republic of Iran you will see the artist has beautiful drawn the story of the deer on one of the walls.

Goharshad Masjid

It is said that Goharshad Khatoon, wife of an Indian King whose name was Shah Rukh Mirza, built this Masjid.

Museum of Quraan in The Haram of The Raudhah of Imam Ridha’ A.S.

One should not miss the opportunity to visit this museum. It has pages of the Quraan written by hand by Imam Ali A.S., Imam Zainul Abedeen A.S. and other Imams.

Lunch as a Guest of Imam Ridha’ A.S.

You may not get this opportunity again. You should take your passport and go to the office of Pilgrims which is situated in the Haram of Imam Ridha’’s A.S. They will mark your passport and give you a ticket for the meal. At this restaurant they feed 4000 Zuwar each day. Thousands of Iranians have to wait for years before they get a chance to have a meal at this restaurant.

They serve you a good portion of rice and chicken and one cannot finish it, besides at the entrance you will find thousands of Iranian begging you to bring them some food (Niaz) from the Restaurant. We suggested you take with you a few zip lock bags and put the food in it and when you come out you can distribute them to the people waiting for this once in a lifetime “Tabaruk” but you must be very careful because they will jump on you like bees jump on the beehive.

There are many Ziyarat around Mashad and you should try and visit them all.

Tomb of Imamzada Sultan Ahmed R.A.

Tomb of Khwaja Abu Salt Harvi R.A.

He was a good friend of Imam Ridha’ A.S. When the Imam was poisoned by Mamoon and lay on his dying bed, Imam said his last Vasiyat (Will) to Abu Salt.

Tomb of Khwaja Rabi R.A.

He too was the friend of Imam Ridha’ A.S. He narrated many incidences on the life of the Imam and has also written many books.

Tomb of Khwaja Murad R.A.

Museum of Ferdowsi

He was a great poet.

Qadamghah

It is believed that Imam Ridha’ A.S., while on his way to Tous in the 9th century made a stop here and delivered his speech to the audience who had gathered to welcome him to Neishapur. It is narrated that he said his Salaat on a slab of stone and left his footprints on the slab, which is now mounted on the wall.

There is also a spring water coming out from the rocks and is said to be a Miracle of our Imam where people drink the water in a special bowl for Shafa.

Tomb of Attr

He was a poet.

Tomb of Kamal-Al-Mulk

He was also a great artist.

Tomb of Omar Khayyam

He was an astronomical mathematician and a famous poet. His work is well known in the Muslim world.

Raudhah of Sayyed Ibrahim A.S.

He was the brother of Imam Ridha’ A.S. and was also executed by the Bani Abbsi representative

Tour of Neishapur City

Shiraz - Shah Shiragh A.S.

The Raudhah of Shah Shiragh A.S. the brother of Imam Ridha’ A.S. is in Shiraz. If you plan to visit then you have to add 2 to 3 extra days in your itinerary.

Your Ziyarat of iran is now almost complete and you have two choices either return to Damascus or proceed to Iraq. We recommend you go to Iraq from Amman, Jordan

Teheran/Damascus/Amman

Your flight by Air Iran is late in the evening and you will arrive Damascus sometime 8:00 PM. Usually all Raudhah in Damascus are closed after Isha Salaat. If you arrive on a Thursday night you may be lucky if your flight is not delayed then you proceed to Raudhah of Bibi Zainab A.S. direct from the airport before you go to your hotel.

Our experience tells us that it is better to go to Iraq from Amman, Jordan, because there is a good traffic on this road. You can also go from Iran but there you have change the buses at the border and you may have to walk about a half km to the Iraqi border and get your Immigration and customs cleared there.

They are talking of opening the road from Damascus but up to now it has not materialised. Of course the traveling time may be reduced by about 3 to 4 hours on this route.

Another reason to go from Amman is that you can visit Baitul-Muqaddas and other Ziyarat both in and around Amman and in and around Baitul-Muqaddas.

Amman - Jordan

Information for Jordanian Visa

They are very strict especially Zuwars holding Tanzanian, Kenyan, Ugandan, Indian, Pakistani and Shri Lankan passports.

You must obtain your Visa from the country of your residence before you proceed to Syria. If you are going to go to Baitul-Muqaddas and or Iraq then please make sure that you have multiple visas for Jordan otherwise you will have difficulties returning from Baitul-Muqaddas or Iraq.

Canadians and Americans can obtain their visa at the Amman airport, but we still recommend you obtain it from Canada and the United States before you travel to Jordan.

If you have joined a group, the organizer (of your group) will be responsible for obtaining your visa.

Hotels & Restaurants

In addition to five star Hotels mentioned in this booklet, there are also many 2 and 3 star hotels at the city centre, which are affordable.

Traveller’s Cheques

Traveler’s cheques can be easily cashed at shops and hotels.

Credit Cards

All major credit cards are acceptable in all shops and hotels in Jordan.

Currencies

There is no exchange control in Jordan but their money, which is known as JD, is expensive. In December 1997 one JD was equal to 2.5 American Dollars.

Weather

During the months of December, January, February and March are very cold and you will require thermal undergarments, a winter coat and winter gloves.

March, April, August, September and October and are pleasant months.

June and July are very hot.

There are beautiful Mosques and historical buildings in Amman, which is worth visiting.

• Tomb of Ja’far at-Tayyar

• The Seven Sleepers

• The Dead Sea

• Prophet Shoab A.S.

Amman/Baitul-Muqaddas

It is about a one and half-hour drive from Amman to the Jerusalem border. It is advisable to proceed early in the morning after breakfast.

Information for Jordanian Visa

They are very strict especially with those visitors holding a Tanzanian, Kenyan, Ugandan, Indian, Pakistani or a Shri Lankan passport. You must obtain your visa from the country of residence before you proceed to Baitul-Muqaddas. You must make sure that they do not stamp your passport with the Israeli Visa or else you will not be able to enter any Arab country except Jordan. Usually we get them to give us Visa on a piece of paper.

Canadians and Americans can obtain their visa at the Israel border, but we still recommend that you make arrangements with any Tour Operator in Amman to obtain for you the Israeli Visa on a piece of paper.

If you have joined a group then the organizer of your group will be responsible for obtaining your Visa.

Hotels & Restaurants

There are many five-star hotels in the Jewish area of Jerusalem but Muslim Tour Operators in Amman are very reluctant to accommodate Muslims at these hotels. They will accommodate Muslims in 3 or 4 star hotels in the Muslim section of Jerusalem.

Traveller’s Cheques

Traveler’s cheques can be easily cashed at shops and hotels.

Credit Cards

All major credit cards are acceptable in all shops and hotels in Jordan.

Weather

During the months of December, January, February and March are very cold and you may require thermal undergarments, winter coat and winter gloves.

March, April, August, September and October and are pleasant months. June and July are very hot.

If you intend to go to Bait-ul-Muqaddas then make sure you make arrangements with a Tour Operator before your arrival in Amman otherwise it may day you days before you can obtain a visa from Amman. Usually the Tour Operator makes arrangements to drive you to the Israeli border where you have to clear Immigration and Customs. There are no problems with Canadian and American Passport holders. Others Nationalities could be a problem.

Please make sure you tell your Tour Operator that the Israeli Visa should not be stamped in your passport otherwise you will not be able to visit any Arab Countries.

The Tour Operator who will be responsible looking after you in Israel will come and pick you up at the border and drive you to Bait-ul-Muqaddas.

Bait-ul-Muqaddas

This was our first Qibla before it was changed to Khan al-Ka’aba in Makkah. The event took place at Masjid al-Qiblatain in Medina.

Masjid al-Aqsa

Tomb of Nabi Musa A.S.

Bethlehm City Where Nabi Isa A.S. Was Born

There are many Christians and Muslims historical monuments. If time permits, visit the Diamond Factory.

Al-Quds/Amman

After you return to Amman from Al-Quds first you should try to rest for a night and prepare yourself for the long bus journey to Iraq.

If you are going for Ziyarat to Iraq then please continue reading

Recommended Books

• Hajj

By Dr. Ali Shariati

• Hajj Manasek

According to the Fatwa of:

Ayatullah al-Odhma - Sayyid Ali Husayni Seestani

Translated by Hajj Mortaza Lakaha

Reviewed by: Ayatullah Dr. Seyed Fadhel Milani

Adabul Haramain

By Sayyid Jawad Husayny Shaharudy

• Rahnuma al-Hujjaj

According to the Fatwa of:

Marhoom Ayatullah Abul Qasim El-Khouei

Compiled by Hujjatul Islam Wal-Moslemeen

Alhaj Seyed Ali Abid Rizvi

• Pilgrims’ Guide: Selected Supplications

Translated by Dr. Liyakatali Takim

• Mafatih-ul-Jinaan

• Tofatul-Zaireen

• Ziyarat - of the 14 Masoomeen

Compiled and written

By Hadi Husayn Sayyid

Printed by Peermohamed Ibrahim Trust, Karachi.

All above books are available from:

Mehrab Publishers & Distributors (Canada)

17 Kevi Crescent, Richmond Hill, Ontario L4B 3C8

Telephone # (905) 731-6920

Fax number (905) 886-3430

E-mail: devji@ican.net

Hotels

In Saudi Arabia, Jordon, Syria, Iran & Iraq

Saudi Arabia - Jeddah

Albilad Hotel Movenpick, a five Star Hotel on the Cornish Drive, excellent dining room with open buffet. Fax # 011-966-2-654-7098.

Sheraton Hotel, a five Star Hotel on the Cornish Drive, excellent dining room with open buffet.

Fax # 011-966-2-699-2660

Helnan Red Sea Palace Hotel, a five 5 Star Hotel at the City Centre (Balad), excellent dining room with open buffet. Fax # 011-966-2-642-2395.

Medina Munawara

Sheraton Hotel, a five-star Hotel - 7 km from the Holy Haram - excellent dinning room with open buffet, shuttle service and a rest house near available for the use by Hujjaj near the Holy Haram, Fax # 011-966-4-846-0385.

Medina Oberoi, a five-star hotel - two-minute walk to Masjid al-Nabawee, Medina. Fax #011-966-4-826-3155.

Green Palace Hotel - a four-star hotel - four-minute walk to the Holy Haram. Fax # 011-966-4-824-2666

Al Attas Hotel - a three-star hotel - a minute walk to the Holy Haram. Fax # 011-966-4-8233-0285.

Madinah Reem Hotel - a four-star hotel - 3 minute to the Holy Haram - The Masjid al-Nabi as well as Jannatul-Baquee can easily be viewed Fax # 011-966-4-825-5725

Makkah

Hilton Towers - a five-star hotel; a minute walk to the Holy Haram, Fax # 011-966-2-537-6500.

Kindah Palace - a five-star hotel, two-minute walk to the Holy Haram, Fax 011-966-2-574-3535.

Ajyad Makkah Hotel - a five-star hotel, six minutes walk to the Holy Haram. Shuttle bus service available - excellent dining room buffet style. Fax # 011-966-2-574-6061.

Syria

Damascus

Ebla Cham Palace - a five-star de-luxe hotel with excellent dining room with open buffet. It is about 15 minutes drive to Bibi Zainab AS’s Raudhah.

Fax # 011-963-11-223-4805.

Other Five Stars Hotels

Semiramis - Meridien - Sheraton

Cham Palace

Jordan

Amman

Five-star hotels

Intercontinental - Forte Grand - Marriot

Rooms are with attached English Style bathrooms.

Al-Quds

Jerusalem - West Bank

The Seven Arches - a four-star hotel.

Islamic Republic of Iran

Tehran

Azadi International Hotel - a five-star hotel - rooms with attached English style bathrooms. Excellent dining room with open buffet, Fax # 011-98-21-2073038.

Homa Hotel - a five-star hotel - Rooms with attached English style bathrooms. Excellent dining room with open buffet. Fax # 011-98-21-8773021.

Mashad

Laleh Hotel - a five-star hotel - acceptable dining room with open buffet. Telephone #011-98-51-894845, 9 lines. Few rooms with attached English style toilets.

Homa Hotel, a five-star hotel - Rooms with attached English Style bathrooms. Excellent dinning room with open buffet.

Republic of Iraq

Bagdaad

Al-Rashid Hotel - a five-star hotel - Rooms with attached English Style bathrooms. Acceptable dining room with limited menu.

Sheraton Hotel - four-star hotel - Rooms with attached English Style bathrooms. Acceptable dining room with limited menu.

Karbala’

Makki’s Rest House - to be considered as two Star guesthouse across Hazrat Abbas A.S. Raudhah; few rooms with attached English Style bathrooms.

Hotel Zainabiya - a two-star hotel few kilometers away from the Holy Haram. You need a bus to visit the Holy Haram.

There are many new hotels in Karbala’ but their standards are low and to be standard considered as two-star hotel. Most of them do not have English Style Bathrooms.

Najaf

The only popular hotel is Zam Zam Hotel, again to be considered as a 2-star hotel. Only a few rooms have attached English Style bathrooms.

Embassies for Visas

Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for Hajj & Umra Visa.

In Canada

The Consular Section, 99 Bank Street, Suite # 260, Ottawa, Ont. K1P 6B9, telephone # (613) 237-4100 Fax # (613) 237-0567

In the United States

New York, The Consular Section

866 United Nations Plaza, Room # 480, New York, NY 10017, Telephone # (212) 752-2740.

Washington. The Consular Section

601 Newhamshire Avenue North W., Washington DC 20037, Telephone # (202) 342-3800.

Houston. The Consular Section

5718 Westheimer, Suite # 1500, Houston, TX 77057, Telephone # (713) 785-5577.

Los Angeles. The Consular Section

10900 Wilshire Blvd., Suite # 830, Los Angeles, CA 90024, Telephone # (310) 208-6566.

Jordan

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

In Canada

100 Bronson Avenue, Suite # 701, Ottawa KAR 6G8

Telephone # (613) 238-8090

Syria

The Embassy of The Syrian Arab Republic

In Canada

111 St. Urban, Suite # R06, Montreal, Quebec, H2Z 1Y6

Telephone # (514) 397-1891 - Fax (514) 397-6801

In the United States

2215 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DCV 20008

Iran

The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran

In Canada

245 Metcalfe Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K2P 2K2

Telephone # (613) 235-4726

Iraq

The Republic of Iraq

In Canada

215 McLeod Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K2P 0Z8

Telephone # (613) 236-9177

Flights for Umra & Hajj

Jeddah

The King Abdul Aziz International airport has three terminals; one for foreign airlines, one for Saudi Airlines and one is Madina-tul-hujjaj, which is in operation only during Hajj season.

During Umra if you fly into Jeddah by any airline other than Saudi Airlines you will disembark at the International airport. If you are intending to fly to Medina then you will have to go to another the terminal; you will have to take a taxi to take you to the Saudia terminal because all domestic flights depart from the Saudi Airlines terminal only.

You will not have to change terminals, however, if you are going straight to Makkah you will take a taxi to Makkah via Masjid al-Johfa (our Meeqat) to put on your Ihram or if it is very late then you may spend the night at a hotel in Jeddah.

During Hajj season, it does not matter which airline you fly. All Hujjaj are transferred to Madina-tul-Hujjaj and from there they either fly to Medina or if they are going to Makkah, then they will enter Makkah via Masjid al-Johfa.

During Hajj season tickets for Jeddah/Medina purchased outside Madina-tul-hujjaj are not honoured so you will have to buy your ticket from the Saudi Airlines office at Medina-tul-Hujjaj. Therefore it is highly recommended that you ask your travel agent to book for you the flight Jeddah/Medina and obtain a print out showing the PNR numbers, without this PNR # you cannot get a seat to Medina.

Normally if you fly by Saudi Airlines from New York, you arrive in Jeddah at about 4:30 PM and it takes anywhere between 6 to 8 hours to clear Immigration and customs. It is therefore, recommended that you book your flight to Medina early next morning and spend the night at Madina-tul-hujjaj.

Transportation during Umra

If you are not flying to Medina from Jeddah then you can take a white limo from the airport, which will cost you about SR500/SR600 and can accommodate four passengers and your baggage. It will take approximately four to five hours to reach Medina.

If you decide to go to Makkah from Jeddah then you can take a taxi stopping first at Masjid al-Johfa, our Meeqat, where you can do your Niyyat of Ihram and then proceed to Makkah. It will cost you about SR300/400 and can accommodate four passengers and your baggage. It will take between four to five hours to reach Makkah.

Preparation for Umra

It is very important that all Hujjaj prepare themselves mentally, physically and spiritually, months before their departure from North America. They should bear in mind that they are going to visit the Holy Cities and are NOT going for a holiday to visit a tourist attraction.

Information for Umra Visa

The head of each family proceeding for Umra is requested to write and enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope to the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, nearest to their city of residence and request them to send enough Visa Application forms for his family. From time to time the Saudi Government amends the rules, so please refer to the enclosed instructions with the application form.

When applying for the Umra Visa you will be required to send the Saudi Embassy the following documents:

• Passport valid for a minimum six months

• A duly completed Visa application form

• A vaccination certificate against Meningitis

• A vaccination certificate against Cholera

• A copy of your marriage certificate if husband and wife are travelling to-gether

• A Mahrum certificate completed and signed by an Islamic Center

• A confirmed round trip air ticket

Please note: All Hujjaj are advised to carry with them a photocopy of their passport which shows their personal information.

American Hujjaj with green card should make sure to carry their green cards in their wallet and a copy of this card should be kept separately in a safe place.

Health Guide

• You should get a complete medical and dental check upto two months prior to your departure.

• You must start walking between 3 to 5 miles daily two months before your departure.

• Pre-travel inoculation is an effective way of reducing or eliminating the risk of several serious infections. Our doctors have recommended that all Hujjaj must take the following vaccinations which are available at all travel clinics in North America or see your family doctor.

Vaccination

• Maningococcal (Spinal Meningitis) - Compulsory

• Cholera - Compulsory

• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Polio (DTP) - Optional

• Yellow Fever - Optional

• Hepatitis A - Optional

When applying for the Umra Visa you will have to enclose certificate of vaccination against Meningitis and Cholera with your application form otherwise you will be denied Umra Visa.

For Ladies Only

Women should contact their family doctor well in advance to prescribe the necessary medication to avoid menstruation during the trip. Ladies in menses cannot enter any Masjid or any Haram of Masoomeen A.S., but they can recite Ziyarat from outside.

Other Useful Information

Insurance

Hujjaj are recommended to take out Medical and Accidental Insurance coverage by Blue Cross or similar kind in other Provinces and USA for the entire trip as per their own personal needs.

Travelers Cheques

Hujjaj are advised to carry American Express Traveler cheques in US Dollars; they are accepted in stores in Saudi Arabia.

Currencies

Hujjaj are recommended to carry a minimum of US $500 in large bills (US $100 bill, which will fetch a better, rate than smaller bills and is easy to cash). The bills should not be dated prior to 1990. Please take more if you intend to do some shopping. Utmost care should be taken in hotels, whilst travelling and particularly in the Haram.

One person in a family should not keep all the money. It is advisable to make special zipped pockets on the inside of garments for safe keeping of money and valuables.

All five-star hotels in Medina and Makkah offer safe deposit boxes and are available to you at no charge unless you lose your key, then it will cost you US $1000.

Credit Cards

All major credit cards are accepted in most of the stores.

Video Filming

Video filming and photographing in Saudi Arabia is prohibited, especially near the Holy Harams both in Medina and Makkah. It is better not to take with you Video or camera equipment with you.

Weather

In Saudi Arabia the temperature will vary between 20 to 248 degrees Celsius during December and January. It is particularly hot during Dhohar time. Nights in Medina are a little cooler.

Electric Current

The electric current is 220 Volts so please make sure you carry a travel adapter if you are planning to take any electrical equipment (kettle, iron, electric razor) with you an electric kettle to use on the trip.

Baggage

You must try to travel as light as possible. All baggage must be tagged with your name, full address both inside and outside and should also be locked for security purposes. The size of the suitcase should be limited to 28 inches maximum.

Laundry Facility

All hotels offer laundry facilities, which are reasonably priced. There are also many dry cleaning stores at every corner of the city and much cheaper than the hotels.

ID Card

Each person must carry an ID card showing his/her name, photograph, passport number and nationality plus some medical information and telephone numbers of the hotels they will be staying.

Respect of Holy Places

Respect and dignity of the holy places should be maintained especially while performing various rites of Ziyarat. Care should be taken to see that other Hujjaj are not inconvenienced. You are also advised not to occupy a certain place for a long time where others would like to pray. Calmness should be maintained in the Holy Haram and worldly talks and arguments should be avoided. While in Haram, Holy Quran, Salawat, Tasbih,Dhikar, Duas and Istighfar should be recited as much as possible.

Religious Books

Hujjaj wishing to carry duas and A’amaal books i.e. Mafatihul-Jinan and Tohfatul Zaireen etc. may do so by making photo copies to avoid to take the originals. Those who cannot read Arabic, you will find many Ziyarat in English in this booklet, which have been compiled with the assistance of other compilers.

Hijab

Women must wear Hijab at all times and avoid make-up during the Umra trip especially in Medina and Makkah.

A’adab

It is recommended for one to perform Ghusl (Mustahab) and be in Wudhu all the time when going to the Holy Haram.

Meeqat

Any person (not present in Makkah) who wishes to come from far to perform Umra, will have to put on the Ihram from any one of the following Meeqat (places appointed by Sharia). There are about six Meeqat if you are coming from outside of Saudi Arabia, but we will discuss only two as these are the only two that concern the pilgrims coming from North America.

• Masjid al-Shajara: This is the Meeqat, used by pilgrims who first go to Medina. It is about 7 klm from city of Medina on the way to Makkah.

• Masjid al-Johfa: Pilgrims who are going straight to Makkah from Jeddah use this Meeqat. It is about 115 Km from Jeddah on the way to Medina.

Items to take with on Your Umra Trip

Some Hujjaj have the tendency to take many unnecessary items with them. We, therefore, have prepared a list of items to be taken. Some of these items can be shared between couples and friends.

List of Items

01) One bottle of unscented Shampoo and soap.

02) One can (unscented) of dusting powder.

03) One tooth brush and toothpaste.

04) One hair brush or comb.

05) One travelling money pouch for safekeeping.

06) Four shirts, two pants, two pajamas and some undergarments for men.

07) Four sets of Shalwaar Kurta or long dress and some undergarments for women.

08) One Janamaaz (Mussalla) made of straw available in Medina. You are not allowed to use openly Sajdagha (Mor) when saying your Salaat

09) One travelling alarm clock.

10) One pair of rubber slippers and one pair of very comfortable shoes for the daily wear.

11) You should take enough prescription medicine to last you during the entire trip and you should carry them in your hand luggage. It is also advisable to carry a prescription of all your medication in case you have to buy them. Also please make sure to take some Tylenol and cough drops like ‘Bradasol’ for sore throat.

12) If you wear prescription glasses then it is highly recommended to carry an extra pair with you.

New York/Jeddah

During Umra season, it is advisable to fly by Saudi Airlines from New York which flies non-stop to Jeddah and arrives at about 4:30 PM. This will give you enough time to clear immigration and customs and catch your flight to Medina which departs from Jeddah at about 8:30 PM.

Once you arrive in Medina and have collected your baggage, you will go outside the terminal and take a taxi to your hotel, which will cost you approximately SR40.

Medina

If you are staying near the Holy Haram then every morning at about 4:30 AM you should go to the Holy Haram for Salaat al-Shab also called Salaat al-Lail. Two Adhaan are given in the morning and one Ehkaam for the Fajr Salaat.

If you wish to pray inside the Haram then you should carry (with you) the straw mat because you will be able to do your prostration on it.

Also there are many small places in the Haram where there are no carpets so you can pray at these places.

After morning Salaat men proceed to Janat-ul-Baquee. The ladies will stay outside Masjid al-Nabawee waiting for the Masjid to be opened for them for Ziyarat, which is normally at about 7:00 AM.

You should try and return to your Hotel for breakfast and rest during the day and if you wish to go for Salaat at the Masjid during Dhohar and Asr, you may do so.

The Holy Haram is closed after Isha Salaat.

Salaat

Hujjaj who are required to pray ‘kasar’ under normal circumstances, are recommended to pray full Salaat in Makkah and Medina, if you are staying in a Hotel near the Holy Haram.

It is highly recommended that when entering any Masjid for the first time then 2 rakaat Salaat be offered with the "Niyyat of Tahiyyat al-Masjid"

Masjid al-Nabawee

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was born in Makkah on 17th Rabi-ul-Awwal. He was born an orphan and when he was five years old, his mother Amina Binte Wahab died. His grandfather Abdul-Muttalib who also passed away when the Prophet was only eight years old and then his uncle Abu Talib, became his guardian then brought him up.

At the age of 25 he married Bibi Khadija who was a widow of forty years of age.

When he was 40 years old, revelation came to him from Allah (SWT) ordering him to ‘read in the name of Allah’ and the first to know about this was Bibi Khadija and his cousin Imam Ali A.S.

During his last pilgrimage to Makkah, the Holy Prophet of Islam proclaimed at Ghadeer al-Khum that Imam Ali A.S., would be his successor, in accordance with the wishes of the Almighty Allah.

The Prophet of Islam passed away on the 28th Safar in 11 AH and is buried in the Masjid al-Nabawee.

If you follow the sketch of the Masjid al-Nabawee as shown on Page 27 you will notice that there are many pillars and places of importance, which will be explained briefly.

Bab al-Jibra’el

This is the door through which Jibra’el used to come to the chamber of Janabe Fatimah Zehra A.S.

Maqam al-Jibra’el

Whenever Jibra’el came to the Prophet of Islam with a Wahee ‘revelation’, he came through this door.

Stage of Suffa

The poor new Muslims who use to come to Medina from different parts of the world use to stay at this stage till they found their own shelter.

Riyadhul Jannah

The Prophet of Islam was heard saying that a piece of Jannat is between his mimber and his Zaree. Some historians say that Bibi Fatima A.S. is also buried here.

It is also said that the Prophet of Islam was heard saying that this piece of land would be raised to meet Jannat on the day of Quiyamat.

Mimber al-Rasul

This is the same mimber that the Holy Prophet (SAW) used to give khutbas from.

Mehrab al-Nabawee

Just before the mimber is the Mehrab al-Nabawee. It is from this Mehrab that the Prophet of Islam used to conduct Salaat al-Jamaat.

Pillars in Masjid al-Nabawee

Pillar of Hannaana

Adjoining the Mehrab al-Nabawee is the pillar of Hannaana. The Prophet of Allah used to lean against a date palm tree and give Khutba. After the Mimber was built, however, the Prophet (SAW) used the mimber for giving khutba. The date palm tree complained and cried because of loneliness. The Prophet of Islam reassured the date palm tree that it would accompany the Prophet in Jannat.

A pillar was erected where the pillar of Hannaanaa was.

Pillar of Aisha

It is narrated that the Prophet (SAW) was heard saying that there was one place in this Masjid where to say Salaat was great thawab but he did not say where the place was. After his death, Aisha pointed out this place where the ‘Pillar of Aisha” now stands.

Pillar of Tawba

The pillar that is right in front of Kabre Mubarak is the Pillar of Tawba. It is narrated that Abu Labbaaba spied on the Prophet of Islam and went and told the Jews that there was a plan to kill them.

Abu Labbaba then repented for this mistake and he came to Masjid al-Nabawee and tied himself to a date tree, crying desperately for forgiveness.

One day when the Prophet of Allah was resting in the hujra of Umme Salma, Jibra’el came with the ayah of Quran which mentions the forgiveness of Abu Labbaaba. The Prophet untied him and gave him the good news that Allah had forgiven him. Here the Pillar was erected, it is recommended that one should try to pray two rakaats Salaat and ask for forgiveness at this pillar.

Pillar of Mahras

This pillar stands where Imam Ali A.S. used to stand guard over the Prophet of Allah when he slept at night.

Pillar of Wufood

Whenever people from outside Medina came to visit the Prophet (SAW), he would receive their delegation here.

House of Imam Hassan A.S.

When you come out through Bab al-Jibra’el and look straight towards the Qibla, you will see a white dome (silver) but now it is turned into a library and known as ‘Maktab al-Sheikh-Arif Hikmat’

House of Abu Ayyub Ansari

This is the famous hadith that when the Prophet of Allah first arrived in Medina, several Ansars wanted to be his host. It was difficult for the Prophet (SAW) to decide which Ansar to choose so he announced that he would stay wherever his camel stopped.

The camel stopped in front of the House of Abu Ayyub Ansari. This is the first house in Medina where the Prophet (SAW) stayed. The house has been demolished and (now stands) in it’s place the ‘Court of Justice’.

Jannatul Baquee

This is the general cemetery in existence since the time of the Prophet of Islam. Here many Ashab, Momineen and Shohada al-Ohad have been buried. Also the graves of the following members of the Ahlul Bayt can be found there.

Janabe Fatima Zehra A.S.

According to some historians she is buried here.

Imam Hasan A.S.

He could not be buried next to the Prophet in Masjid al-Nabawee.

Imam Zainul Abideen A.S.

Imam Muhammad Baqar A.S.

Imam Jafar Sadiq A.S.

Janabe Fatima Binte Asad

Ummul Baneen

Wife of Imam Ali A.S. and mother of Hazrat Abbas A.S.

Janab al-Halimah

The wet nurse of the Prophet.

Janab al-Safiya and Janab al-Atika

Paternal aunts of the Prophet of Allah.

Janab al-Ruqayya, Umm al-Kulthum and Zaynab

They are the adopted daughters of the Prophet A.S.

Juwara, Saudah, Aisha, Hafsa, Umme Habibah, Umme Salma, Safiyyah & Zainab

The wives of the Prophet of Allah (SAW)

Hazrat Abbas

Uncle of the Prophet (SAW).

Janab al-Ibrahim

Son of the Prophet of Islam and brother of Bibi Fatima Zehra A.S.

Hazrat Ismail A.S.

Son of Imam Ja’far Sadique A.S.

Outside Ziyarat

If you have not joined any group and you are on your own, then you can hire a taxi to take you to all the outside Ziyarat and it will cost you approximately SR50/SR70 for four passengers.

Masjid al-Shams

It is narrated that the Prophet (SAW) fell asleep on the laps of Imam Ali A.S. just before Dhohar time till nearly Maghrib.

Imam Ali A.S. said his Dhohar and Asar Salaat sitting down. Near the time of Maghrib, the Prophet woke up and pointed his finger at the setting sun, which came up and the Prophet (SAW) prayed his Dhohar and Asr Salaat.

In Iraq there is another Masjid called Masjid-Radus-Shams which has got its name on a similar kind of story.

Masjid al-Zul Qibltayn

Our previous Qibla was Bait-ul-Muqaddas. The Jews used to taunt the Holy Prophet (SAW) that his followers did not have their own direction for Salaat.

One day when the Prophet of Allah (SWT) was leading the Salaat al-Dhohar, a revelation came to him after the second Rakaat to change his direction of Salaat, from Bait-ul-Muqaddas to the Ka’aba.

Masjid al-Quba

This was the first Masjid that the Prophet of Allah (SAW) built on his arrival from Makkah. It is narrated that the Prophet of Allah was heard saying that if you say two Rakaats Salaat in this Masjid you will get the Thawab of one Umra.

The Saba Saba Masjids

This was the place where the battlefield of Khandaq was fought and these Masjids were erected thereafter. There are 5 Masjid near each other. The name Khandaq was given because Salman al-Farsee dug a very big trench during this battle so that the army of the non-believers could not jump over the trench. This was the battle strategy used in Iran where Salaman al-Farsee’s native country.

Masjid al-Fatah

This Masjid is situated on the hilltop. It is narrated that the Prophet of Islam stayed (in this tent) for three days in his tent and prayed for the success of the Muslims.

Masjid Salman al-Farsi

This Masjid is just at the bottom of Masjid al-Fatah. It is said that at this Masjid the tent of Salaman al-Farsee was erected.

Masjid al-Ali A.S.

This Masjid is on the hill opposite to Masjid al-Fatah where

Masjid al-Bidi Fatimah Zehra A.S.

This Masjid is at the bottom of Masjid al-Ali A.S. that was used by Bibi Fatimah Zehra A.S. Unfortunately this Masjid is now closed - (when we visited in December 1997).

Ohud - Hazrat Hamza A.S.

The lion of Allah, Hazrat Hamza A.S. the uncle of the Prophet of Islam is buried with many Shohada of Ohud here.

The Prophet (SAW) was heard saying that whoever does his Ziyarat and does not do the Ziyarat of his uncle Hamza has been unfaithful to the Prophet.

This is the place where the second Islamic war took place. At the beginning of this war the Muslims were winning, but a group of archers who were stationed at the entrance of the mountain to block the army of unbelievers, left their position to go and loot the belongings of the running away soldiers of the unbelievers, inspite of strict instructions not to leave their position, thus the battle was almost lost.

It is also narrated during this battle Jibra’el brought the sword ‘Zulfiqar’ from heaven because Hazrat Ali A.S. had broken many swords.

During your stay in Medina, you should spend as much time as possible at Masjid al-Nabawee and Jannat-ul-Baquee.

Medina/Makkah

Our experience tells us that it is advisable to depart Medina after Dhohar so (you arrive in Makkah) between Maghrib and Isha you arrive in Makkah.

If you have not joined a group and you are on your own then you will have to hire a taxi which will cost you approximately SR500/SR600 to take you to Makkah via Masjid al-Shajarah, our Meeqat, to do the Niyyat of Ihram.

You must also make sure that the limo has a permit to take Hujjaj from Medina to Makkah or else you will be turned back to Medina from the checkpoint.

You are recommended to do Sunnat Ghusl of Ihram sometime in the morning.

Niyyat: “I am doing Ghusl for the following, Sunnat

Qurbatan Ilallah”. You cannot use scented soap when doing this Ghusl

1. for wearing Ihram for Umra al-Mufradah

2. for entering into the Haram (Sanctified boundaries around Makkah)

3. for entering into the city of Makkah

4. for entering into the Masjid-ul-Haram

5. for doing Tawaaf of Khan al-Ka’aba


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