First-Time Umrah Guide for Canadians

Performing Umrah for the first time? This guide walks you through every step — from getting your Saudi visa in Canada to completing the rituals of Umrah in Makkah. Written specifically for Canadian pilgrims.

Step 1: Get Your Saudi Umrah Visa

Canadian citizens can get the Saudi eVisa online. PR holders need their PR card plus home country passport. We handle the full visa application as part of your package.

Step 2: Pack for Your Journey

• Ihram clothing (2 white unstitched sheets for men)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Canadian winter clothing for departure (layer up — it's cold in Canada, warm in Saudi)
• Prayer mat, Quran, and personal toiletries
• CAD spending money (convert to SAR on arrival or use ATMs in Saudi)

Step 3: Enter Ihram

Before reaching the Miqat (the boundary around Makkah), enter the state of Ihram. Men wear the two white sheets. Make your intention (Niyyah) for Umrah and recite the Talbiyah: "Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk..."

Step 4: Tawaf (Circling the Kaaba)

Upon arrival at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, perform Tawaf — circling the Kaaba 7 times counter-clockwise. Start at the Black Stone (Hajr al-Aswad) corner. Men walk briskly for the first 3 circuits (Ramal).

Step 5: Sa'i (Walking between Safa and Marwah)

After Tawaf, perform Sa'i — walking 7 times between the hills of Safa and Marwah. This commemorates Hajar's search for water for Prophet Ismail (AS). The distance is approximately 450 metres each way.

Step 6: Halq or Taqsir (Shaving/Trimming Hair)

After Sa'i, men shave their head (Halq) or trim the hair (Taqsir). Women trim a small portion of their hair. This completes your Umrah and releases you from Ihram.

Canadian-Specific Tips

• 💧 Stay hydrated — Saudi is much warmer than Canada, especially in summer
• 💵 Bring CAD spending money — convert to SAR at exchange shops in Makkah
• 📱 Get a Saudi SIM card at the airport for data and navigation
• 🧥 Wear layers on departure day — cold in Canada, warm on arrival in Jeddah
• 📋 Keep your visa and passport copies separate from originals

FAQ