Umrah Journey: Faith, Peace and Spiritual Renewal with Noussouki Travel
The Umrah, often called the "lesser pilgrimage," is one of the most profound spiritual experiences a Muslim can undertake. Unlike the Hajj, which has fixed dates, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, making it accessible to millions of believers seeking closeness to Allah. At Noussouki Travel, we guide Canadian Muslims through every step of this sacred journey, from visa application to the final Tawaf.
Spiritual preparation
The Umrah begins long before the flight to Jeddah. Spiritual preparation is as important as logistical planning. Scholars recommend increasing acts of worship in the weeks before departure: extra voluntary prayers (nawafil), fasting, reading Quran, giving charity and seeking forgiveness from those you may have wronged. The intention (niyyah) for Umrah should be purely for Allah's sake, free from any desire for worldly recognition.
Learning the supplications (du'as) for each stage of the journey is essential. The Hisn al-Muslim is an invaluable companion, containing the authenticated prayers for travel, entering the Haram, performing Tawaf, drinking Zamzam water and completing Sa'i. Memorizing even a few key du'as transforms the experience from a physical act to a deeply personal conversation with Allah.
The rites of Umrah
Umrah consists of four essential rites. First, entering the state of Ihram at the designated Miqat point (for those flying from Canada via Jeddah, the Miqat is typically announced on the plane). Men wear two white unsewn cloths; women wear their normal modest clothing. The pilgrim recites the Talbiyah: "Labbayk Allahumma labbayk" (Here I am, O Allah, here I am).
Second, performing Tawaf: seven counter-clockwise circuits around the Kaaba in Makkah. Third, praying two rak'at behind Maqam Ibrahim. Fourth, performing Sa'i: walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, commemorating Hajar's search for water for her son Ismail. The journey concludes with shaving or trimming the hair (Halq or Taqsir), symbolizing renewal and submission.
Practical guide for Canadian pilgrims
Canadian citizens need an Umrah visa, now available through the Nusuk platform. Direct flights from Toronto or Montreal to Jeddah are available via Saudi Airlines and connecting flights via Istanbul, Doha or Dubai. A typical Umrah trip lasts 7 to 14 days, combining time in Makkah (4-5 days) and Madinah (3-4 days). Check visa requirements for current procedures.
The best periods for Umrah are Ramadan (highest spiritual reward but extreme crowds), Rajab and Sha'ban (quieter, pleasant weather) and the weeks after Hajj season (October-November). Avoid the peak summer months (June-August) when temperatures in Makkah regularly exceed 45 degrees Celsius. Contact our team for available packages. Explore our combined Umrah options and browse all destinations.