Before you leave

Practical information

The essentials to prepare your Umrah, Hajj or organized tour with peace of mind.

Travel documents

Keep together, in a bag that stays with you: passport, visa or travel authorization when required, plane tickets, the agency's confirmation and your travel insurance certificate.

  • Keep a digital copy of your documents in a secure place.
  • Never send your passport by ordinary email: the agency will tell you how to send it securely.

Passport and validity

For Umrah and Hajj, plan a passport valid at least six months beyond your trip. For other destinations, the required validity depends on the country and your nationality.

  • Check the expiry date as soon as you register: a renewal can take several weeks.
  • Check that the name on your ticket exactly matches your passport.

Travel formalities

Visa, electronic authorization, health declaration or certificate: formalities depend on the destination and your nationality, and can change. The agency tells you which ones apply to your file.

  • Umrah: the visa is requested through an approved agency or online, under the procedures in force.
  • Hajj: official registration is done on the Nusuk Hajj platform.
  • Tours: check the Government of Canada travel advice for your destination.

Packing

Pack a light suitcase with clothing suited to the climate and respectful of the religious and cultural norms of the country you visit.

  • Toiletry bag, prayer mat, small backpack, comfortable sandals and sunglasses.
  • Keep your documents, medication and a change of clothes in your cabin bag.
  • Check the baggage allowance on your ticket.

Health advice

Ask a travel health clinic about required or recommended vaccines (for example against meningitis for Umrah and Hajj), ideally several weeks before departure.

  • Prepare a small first-aid kit and bring your personal medication with its prescription.
  • Drink regularly: the climate can be very hot.
  • Travel insurance covering medical care is strongly recommended.

This general advice does not replace the advice of a health professional.

Money, bank cards and payment

Plan a budget for expenses on site (meals not included, transport, personal purchases) and tell your bank about your trip so you can use your cards abroad.

  • Bring a little cash in the local currency for small expenses.
  • Your package is paid at the agency: the website does not accept any online payment.

Phone and Internet

An unlocked phone lets you buy a local SIM card; otherwise, check your provider's international plans before leaving.

  • Note the emergency numbers and the contact details of the Canadian embassy or consulate.
  • Save the agency's WhatsApp number to reach us easily.

Climate and recommended clothing

The climate varies with the destination and season; in Saudi Arabia it can be very hot during the day. Check the forecast a few days before departure.

  • Choose loose, light and modest clothing.
  • Bring a light layer for evenings and air-conditioned places, and comfortable walking shoes.

Practical tips for departure

Check your flight times and arrive at the airport as recommended by the airline.

  • Label your luggage with your name and phone number.
  • Keep your documents, medication and valuables in your hand luggage.
  • During the trip, follow your group escort's instructions.

Contacts and assistance

Our team supports you before, during and after the trip. Do not hesitate to contact us with any question.

Detailed guides

To go further, read our guides on Umrah and Hajj.

A question before you leave?

Our team answers by phone, email or WhatsApp, before and during your trip.