Complete Hajj Guide
What is Hajj?
Hajj is the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah, Saudi Arabia, and is the fifth pillar of Islam. It is a mandatory religious duty that must be carried out at least once in a lifetime by every able-bodied Muslim who can afford to do so. The pilgrimage takes place during the month of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
Each year, millions of Muslims from every corner of the globe gather in Makkah to perform a series of sacred rituals that trace back to the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family. The pilgrimage is a profound act of worship, symbolising unity, equality, and submission to Allah. During Hajj, all pilgrims wear simple white garments, removing any distinctions of wealth, status, or nationality.
Upon completion of Hajj, a pilgrim earns the honourable title of “Hajji” (for men) or “Hajjah” (for women). The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever performs Hajj and does not commit any obscenity or transgression shall return home free of sin, as on the day their mother bore them.”
5th Pillar
of Islam
The Five Days of Hajj
Hajj is performed over five days, each with specific rituals and locations. Below is a detailed breakdown of what to expect on each day of the pilgrimage.
Day 1 — 8th Dhul Hijjah (Yawm al-Tarwiyah)
Journey to Mina
Pilgrims enter the state of Ihram and make their intention (Niyyah) for Hajj. After performing the morning prayers, you travel to the tent city of Mina, approximately 8 kilometres east of the Grand Mosque in Makkah. The day is spent in prayer, reflection, and preparation for the days ahead. You will perform Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha, and Fajr prayers in Mina, each shortened but not combined, following the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him).
Key Rituals
Day 2 — 9th Dhul Hijjah (Yawm al-Arafah)
Standing at Arafat
This is the most important day of Hajj. After Fajr prayer in Mina, pilgrims travel to the plain of Arafat, where they stand in earnest supplication and devotion from midday until sunset. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: "Hajj is Arafat." This day is considered the pinnacle of the pilgrimage. After sunset, pilgrims proceed to Muzdalifah where they spend the night under the open sky, collecting pebbles for the stoning ritual and performing Maghrib and Isha prayers combined.
Key Rituals
Day 3 — 10th Dhul Hijjah (Yawm al-Nahr)
Eid al-Adha & Stoning of Jamarat
This is Eid al-Adha, the Day of Sacrifice. Pilgrims return to Mina at dawn and perform the first stoning ritual, casting seven pebbles at Jamarat al-Aqabah (the largest pillar). After stoning, an animal sacrifice (Qurbani) is performed. Men then shave their heads (Halq) or trim their hair (Taqsir), while women cut a fingertip-length of hair. Pilgrims then partially exit Ihram and travel to Makkah to perform Tawaf al-Ifadah (circling the Kaaba seven times) and Sa'i (walking between Safa and Marwah). This is followed by returning to Mina for the night.
Key Rituals
Day 4 — 11th Dhul Hijjah (First Day of Tashreeq)
Stoning of All Three Jamarat
Pilgrims remain in Mina and perform the stoning of all three Jamarat pillars in sequence: Jamarat al-Ula (smallest), Jamarat al-Wusta (middle), and Jamarat al-Aqabah (largest). Seven pebbles are thrown at each pillar, totalling 21 pebbles for the day. Between each stoning, pilgrims face the Qiblah and make supplication. The stoning must be performed after Dhuhr (midday). The remainder of the day is spent in worship, dhikr, and rest in the tents of Mina.
Key Rituals
Day 5 — 12th Dhul Hijjah (Second Day of Tashreeq)
Final Stoning & Tawaf al-Wida
Pilgrims repeat the stoning of all three Jamarat in the same order as the previous day, again throwing 7 pebbles at each pillar after midday. Those who wish to leave Mina early may do so before sunset (this is called "hastening" and is permissible). Pilgrims then return to Makkah and perform Tawaf al-Wida (the Farewell Tawaf), which is the final act of Hajj. This farewell circumambulation of the Kaaba marks the completion of the pilgrimage. Many pilgrims spend additional days in Makkah or travel to Madinah to visit the Prophet's Mosque.
Key Rituals
What to Pack for Hajj
Proper packing can make a significant difference to your comfort during Hajj. Here is our recommended packing list based on years of experience guiding pilgrims.
Essentials
Health & Hygiene
Clothing & Comfort
Technology & Useful Items
Health & Safety Tips
Your health and wellbeing are paramount during Hajj. Follow these expert guidelines to stay safe throughout your pilgrimage.
Vaccinations
Meningitis ACWY vaccination is mandatory for all Hajj pilgrims and must be administered at least 10 days before arrival in Saudi Arabia. Seasonal flu vaccination is strongly recommended. Consult your GP 6-8 weeks before travel for personalised advice.
Hydration & Nutrition
Temperatures in Makkah during Hajj can exceed 45 degrees Celsius. Drink at least 3-4 litres of water daily, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid heavy meals and opt for light, nutritious food. Carry rehydration sachets and electrolyte drinks at all times.
Physical Preparation
Hajj involves significant walking, often exceeding 15-20 kilometres per day over uneven terrain. Begin a walking programme at least 8 weeks before departure. Focus on building stamina and strengthening your legs and feet. Break in your walking shoes well before the trip.
Sun Protection
Use fragrance-free sunscreen with SPF 50 or higher and reapply regularly. Wear a wide-brimmed hat or carry an umbrella. Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours (11am to 3pm) wherever possible. Sunstroke is one of the most common health issues during Hajj.
Hygiene & Illness Prevention
Wash hands frequently with soap or use hand sanitiser. Wear a face mask in crowded areas to reduce the risk of respiratory infections. Avoid touching your face. If you feel unwell, seek medical attention immediately — medical facilities are available in Mina and Arafat.
Medication & Chronic Conditions
Bring sufficient medication for the entire trip plus extra in case of travel delays. Keep medications in their original packaging with a doctor's letter. If you have diabetes, heart conditions, or asthma, ensure your group leader is informed. Carry a medical ID card at all times.
Important Reminder
If you have any pre-existing medical conditions, please inform our team at the time of booking. We can make special arrangements including wheelchair assistance, proximity to medical facilities, and ground-floor accommodation. Your safety is our top priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about Hajj. If you have additional queries, our team is always happy to help.
Hajj 2026 is expected to fall in late May to early June 2026, based on the Islamic lunar calendar. The exact dates will be confirmed closer to the time based on the sighting of the moon for Dhul Hijjah. Our packages typically include departure 3-5 days before the start of Hajj rites, allowing you to settle in and perform Umrah before Hajj begins.
Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory once in a lifetime for every adult Muslim who is physically and financially able to undertake the journey. Physical ability means you are in good health and can perform the rituals. Financial ability means you can afford the trip without hardship to yourself or your dependents, and that any debts are settled or arrangements made before departure.
The Saudi government requires all international Hajj pilgrims to book through an authorised Hajj tour operator. In the UK, your operator must hold a valid ATOL licence and be approved by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj. Booking through Global Wizz Travel ensures your visa, accommodation, flights, and ground services are properly arranged and you are fully protected. Independent travel for Hajj is not permitted for overseas pilgrims.
Our cancellation policy varies depending on when you cancel. If cancelled more than 12 weeks before departure, you will lose the deposit only. Cancellations between 8-12 weeks incur a 50% charge, and cancellations within 8 weeks of departure are non-refundable. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to cover unforeseen cancellations due to illness or other emergencies. Please speak with our team for full terms and conditions.
Saudi Arabia has updated its regulations in recent years. Women aged 45 and above may now perform Hajj without a Mahram (male guardian), provided they travel as part of an organised group and submit a notarised no-objection letter from their Mahram. Women under 45 are still required to travel with a Mahram. Our team can advise you on the latest requirements and help with the necessary documentation.
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Now that you understand the rituals and preparation involved, take the next step by exploring our Hajj 2026 packages or speaking with one of our experienced Hajj consultants.
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