Taking Kids on Umrah: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Taking children on Umrah is one of the most significant and meaningful family experiences. On the sacred land of Haram, as a parent you have a great opportunity to teach them lessons about patience, gratitude, and devotion. And this requires thoughtful preparation.
In this blog, let's see how we can inculcate and develop in children the qualities of prophets and those of the companions of the prophet (PBUH) by proper planning. And make your ‘Umrah with kids’ journey to Haram a sacred and memorable journey.
Preparation and planning
Before going to perform Umrah explain its purpose to your kids using short stories or videos. Teach them the Talbiyah and help them memorize duas.
Also, make sure the documents are ready. Every child needs their passport and visa. Don't forget to take the meningitis vaccine and your regular doctor checkup before you leave.
What to pack
To pack your bags, make a checklist for Umrah with kids. Pack the most needed things for your children, like
Based on the season, select soft clothes and easy-to-wear sandals. For the winter season you may pack warm clothes.
As children have cravings for snacks, you can carry some dry fruits and juice for them. Take a refillable water bottle to maintain your child's energy.
For your small ones, carry a small carrier.
During the journey
Prefer performing Tawaf and sa’i during less crowded times and take frequent breaks. Set a clear meeting point in case someone gets separated.
Why Taking Kids on Umrah Can Be a Beautiful Experience
Really, performing Umrah with kids is an emotional journey for every parent. Seeing your child walk beside you in the holy cities and noticing little eyes light up at the Kaaba is something that words can't describe.
Strengthening Faith Early
Children learn best by seeing and feeling; especially when they watch millions praying together, they start to understand what unity in Islam really means. The Adhan, the peace inside the Haram—all these moments quietly build their love for faith.
Learning Through Experience
Running between Safa and Marwah reminds them of Hajar (AS). Wearing Ihram teaches humility and equality. Each ritual becomes a lasting lesson in patience and faith.
Best Age to Take Children for Umrah: What Parents Should Consider
There’s no “ideal” age to perform Umrah. It mostly depends on your child’s will, patience, and understanding. Some important Umrah travel tips for parents to keep in mind:
Toddlers (1–4 years)
At this age, kids won’t understand much. It’s physically demanding for parents. They expect lots of carrying, naps, and short attention spans.
Kids (5–12 years)
This age is ideal for a first Umrah. They walk long distances. They follow instructions of elders and have enough intelligence to understand Islamic stories like that of Hajar (AS) running between Safa and Marwah, the construction of the Kaaba by Ibrahim (AS), the emergence of Zamzam water, and so on.
Age (13+)
They can handle rituals independently. This will become a turning point in their personal faith journey.
Hence, with these Umrah travel tips for parents, you can teach them how to connect spiritually with Allah (S.W.T.) It will help them to understand the true meaning of Umrah and enjoy every little moment.
Essential Documents and Vaccination for Children Before Umrah
Some of the essential documents, like the passport and birth certificate of your children, are required before you start the journey of ‘Umrah with kids.’
This will help you to ensure a smooth start to perform Umrah journey.
Documents to carry
Passport: carry your child's passport with care. It should be valid for at least six months from the Umrah journey date.
Umrah Visa: Apply for an Umrah visa through a licensed travel agency like 'BookMyUmrahTrip' and verify that your child’s name matches with that of the passport.
Birth Certificate: Keep a Xerox copy of the birth certificate.
Vaccination:
Get the meningitis vaccination certificate from your doctor, and take medicines for cold, flu, and diarrhea after consulting a doctor.
What to Pack for Kids for Umrah: A Handy Checklist
When you have planned to perform Umrah with kids make a checklist to make your trip easier and enjoyable.
Ihram
For Boys: Bring a soft, two-piece white garment if your child is old enough.
For Girls: You can pack airy, modest dresses or abayas along with few hijabs for comfort and ease.
Shoes: Carry simple and easy-to-wear sandals for prayers and walking.
You can explain to your children about the rituals of Tawaf, Ihram, and Sa’i in an easy way.
Also, help them to memorize short duas to be recited to perform Umrah and Quran verses to recite.
During Tawaf and Sa’i:
Use a baby carrier for toddlers.
Try to do shorter rounds and take breaks in between.
Breaks and rest:
Find a silent place to sit and rest.
Always keep children hydrated with Zamzam or water.
Take breaks if your kids feel tired.
Child-Friendly Facilities in Makkah and Madinah
Child-Friendly Facilities in Makkah and Madinah
Two child-friendly facility areas have been constructed by the ministry of Saudi Arabia in the premises of Haramain Shareef.
In Makkah: It is located near the Al Haram Emergency Hospital. It allows the girls of the ages of 1 and 10 years. And for boys, age should be between 1 and 8 years.
In Madina: It is located near Madina gate no. 339. Here, it allows girls aged between 1 and 9 years.
Both the centers provide the best facilities by giving good care, food, and educational knowledge in a play-way method.
Teaching Children the Spiritual Meaning of Umrah
Renewed faith begins at the end of the journey.
As a parent, you can teach your children the spiritual significance of Umrah while performing steps of the Umrah ritual.
Remind them that the tranquility they experienced in Makkah came from their inner state as much as from the location. "That serene, joyous sensation you experienced? That we can take home. We do it by being kind, offering salah on time, and remembering Allah.
Spread the Blessings: Ask your child to share their Umrah experiences with friends and family members. So that they can spread their Umrah blessings
FAQs:
1. Can you take a stroller into Masjid?
Yes, you can take strollers into Masjid. But you are exempted from taking strollers in the Mataf area of Masjid al Haram.
2. How would it be to find food for kids in Makkah and Madinah?
There are many restaurants and food courts that serve international cuisine and traditional dishes of Makah too. Some hotels often have buffets with a variety of options. And your child will like it the most.
3: Should my young son wear Ihram?
Children under puberty don't require Ihram, but if your son wants to wear it, it's a great way to teach humility and equality. Ensure the fabric is comfortable.
4: How can we keep the spiritual feeling of Umrah alive?
Create a "Memory Corner" with Umrah items, share experiences with others, and connect the peace felt during Umrah to daily habits like kindness and prayer.
