How to Perform Hajj- Full Guide

What is Hajj and Why is it Important?

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is a sacred pilgrimage that every physically and financially able Muslim must perform once in their lifetime. Hajj takes place in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, where the Kaaba, the holiest site in Islam, is located. During Hajj, pilgrims perform Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba), Sa’i (running between the hills of Safa and Marwah), pray at the plain of Arafat, spend the night in Muzdalifah, and throw pebbles at the symbolic pillars in Mina, followed by sacrifice. These rituals occur annually from the 8th to the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah.

Hajj is not just a religious duty but also a demonstration of devotion, sacrifice, unity, and spiritual cleansing. Millions of Muslims gather, making it the largest religious gathering in the world. This article explains in simple terms how to go for Hajj, what preparations are needed, and how to perform it correctly.

Who is Eligible for Hajj?

Hajj is obligatory for those who are:

Physically Capable: You must be healthy enough to travel to Makkah and perform the rituals, which require extensive walking.

Financially Capable: You should have sufficient funds to cover visa, travel, accommodation, food, and your family’s expenses during your absence.

Mentally Prepared: You should be emotionally and spiritually ready and must learn the rules of Hajj beforehand.

With a Mahram (for women): Women must travel with a male guardian (father, brother, husband, or son).

Steps to Perform Hajj

1. Learn Hajj Rules

Before performing Hajj, you must learn its rituals, including:

• Ihram: Wearing special garments and making the intention (niyyah) before entering the sacred state. Men wear two white, unstitched cloths; women wear loose-fitting modest clothing (niqab is not allowed during Ihram).
  
• Tawaf: Circling the Kaaba seven times.
  
• Sa’i: Running seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
  
• Standing at Arafat: On the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, praying and seeking forgiveness.
  
• Staying Overnight at Muzdalifah: Collecting pebbles for Mina.
  
• Stoning and Sacrifice at Mina: Throwing pebbles at the pillars symbolizing Satan and offering sacrifice.
  

You can learn these rituals from your mosque imam or attend Hajj training sessions provided by Hajj offices or agencies in Bangladesh.

2. Apply for Hajj Visa

A valid Hajj visa is required to perform Hajj in Saudi Arabia. In Bangladesh, you can apply through:

• Ministry of Religious Affairs: Register through government Hajj packages.
  
• Private Hajj Agencies: Apply through authorized private agencies.
  
• Nusuk Platform: Saudi government’s online platform for visa, accommodation, and transport bookings.
  

Required documents:

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  
• Passport-size photos (white background)
  
• Health certificate (including Meningitis and Flu vaccines)
  
• Mahram details (for women)
  
• Registration fees
  

3. Financial Preparation

Hajj can be expensive. In Bangladesh:

• Government packages: BDT 400,000 – 600,000
  
• Private packages: BDT 600,000 – 1,000,000
  

Costs include visa fees, air tickets, accommodation, food, transportation, and sacrifice. Self-planning can reduce costs but requires more effort.

4. Physical Preparation

Since Hajj involves walking 5-15 km daily, you should:

• Practice walking 30-60 minutes daily
  
• Get Meningitis and Flu vaccinations
  
• Acclimatize to heat (Makkah temperatures reach 35-45°C)
  
• Consult a doctor, especially if you have any health issues
  

5. Clothing and Supplies

For Men: Two white unstitched Ihram cloths; comfortable sandals.

For Women: Loose-fitting clothing like abayas or hijabs; face-covering niqab is prohibited in Ihram.

Other essentials: Water bottle, umbrella (for heat), light backpack, medicines, sunglasses, and important documents.

6. Mahram Arrangements (for Women)

Women must travel with a Mahram. Coordinate with your father, brother, husband, or son, and submit their details during visa application.

7. Choose a Hajj Package or Self-Plan

• Hajj Package: Agencies handle visa, tickets, accommodation, meals, and transportation. Easier but more expensive.
  
• Self-Planning: You arrange your own visa, hotels, and transport. Potentially cheaper but time-consuming.
  

Activities During Hajj

Upon arrival in Makkah:

• Enter Ihram: Wear Ihram at Miqat (designated station) and declare your intention.
  
• Perform Tawaf: Circumambulate the Kaaba seven times.
  
• Perform Sa’i: Run between Safa and Marwah seven times.
  
• Stay at Arafat: Spend the 9th of Dhul Hijjah in prayer and supplication.
  
• Stay in Muzdalifah: Collect pebbles for stoning.
  
• Mina Rituals: Stone the three pillars and offer sacrifice.
  
• Farewell Tawaf: Perform the final circumambulation before leaving.
  

Challenges During Hajj

Hajj is challenging due to:

• Crowds: Risk of getting lost or injured in large crowds.
  
• Heat: Makkah temperatures can exceed 40°C. Stay hydrated and use an umbrella.
  
• Health Risks: Infections like Meningitis and Flu. Get vaccinated and wear masks.
  
• Visa Quotas: Saudi Arabia limits visas for each country; apply early to avoid missing out.
  

Managing Hajj Expenses

• Save Early: Start a monthly saving plan or join Hajj savings schemes in banks.
  
• Choose Affordable Packages: Government packages are usually cheaper.
  
• Self-Plan: Booking hotels and transportation yourself can save money.
  
• Group Travel: Share costs with family or friends.
  

The Spiritual Significance of Hajj

Hajj is not just a journey but a complete surrender to Allah. Through Tawaf, prayers, and sacrifice, you seek closeness to Allah. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said that a person who performs Hajj properly becomes as sinless as a newborn. Worshiping alongside millions of Muslims strengthens your faith.

Saudi Arabia’s Arrangements for Hajj

The Saudi government provides extensive arrangements for Hajj, including tents, transportation, security, and medical facilities in Makkah, Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina. The Nusuk platform allows online booking for visa, accommodation, and transport. The quota system ensures balanced participation from all countries (1 visa per 1000 Muslims).

Conclusion

Hajj is a great responsibility and a sacred worship. To perform it, you must learn the rules, apply for a visa, make physical and financial preparations, and arrange for a Mahram (for women). Whether you choose a package or self-plan, early preparation makes the journey smoother and more rewarding. Hajj will bring you closer to Allah and transform your life spiritually.

Call to Action

If you plan to perform Hajj, consult your mosque’s imam or a religious scholar. Visit Bangladesh’s Ministry of Religious Affairs website (www.hajj.gov.bd) or apply through the Nusuk platform. Take Hajj training and pray that Allah accepts your Hajj.