Does anyone accompany the group from the UK?
Yes, our Hasan Hajj Team will accompany the group from the UK. Most of us have performed Hajj many times as well and are fluent in Arabic. We also have a Saudi team that joins us once we arrive in Saudi Arabia, which has decades of experience in organising Hajj.
Do you provide any religious guidance?
One of the strengths of our package is that we offer extensive guidance before and during the Hajj tour. Following your booking, we will give you some information and a recommended reading list. A few weeks before departure we arrange a dedicated pre-Hajj course over 3 sessions as well as a one-day Hajj seminar where further information is given as well as practical advice for pilgrims. Participants also have an opportunity to ask questions during these programmes. We also hold lectures throughout the pilgrimage. Qualified religious guides accompany the tour throughout, offering guidance and answering questions.
How do I book?
We require a completed booking form by the lead passenger, passport copies of all travellers and a deposit of £2000 per person. Booking forms are available on request by contacting us.
When do I pay?
A non-refundable deposit of £2000 per person is required at the time of booking and then regular payments every 4 weeks with the balance cleared off by 30 June 2018.
I do not have a British passport – Will I get a Visa for Hajj?
Non-British passport holders can get a Hajj visa from the UK if they are on a resident work permit, spouse or student visa, hold a passport with limited or indefinite leave to remain, valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel. Anyone carrying visit visas will not be granted a hajj visa.
Is the room occupancy level guaranteed?
Once we have accepted your booking and confirmed with you, the room occupancy booked is guaranteed for hotels in Makkah and Madinah depending on which package you choose.
What happens if the date of Hajj changes due to moon sighting?
Our itinerary has been set according to the official Saudi calendar. However, if due to the actual sighting of the moon the day is adjusted, we have no control over this and will have to adjust the programme accordingly. We cannot prepare for this eventuality in advance and will do our utmost to make alternative arrangements.
What is the last date for booking?
We do not have a published deadline for bookings. Our capacity is limited and once we sell the last seat for a particular package, we will not be able to accept any further bookings. Our packages are very popular and sell very quickly – we therefore recommend that you book as soon as possible.
Where are your tents in Mina?
We use European tents as used by most UK groups, and offer VIP services including sofa-beds, AC units, packaged food, gypsum board cladded tents and 24 hour hot / cold drinks.
I am a lady – Can I travel without a Mahram?
A condition of Hajj is that all women must be accompanied by a close male relative (Mahram) – we are unable to accept any bookings from lone females, although over 45’s may travel in groups alone according to the Saudi authorities.
Can I book a Haram facing room in Makkah or Madinah?
All our rooms are standard rooms, therefore we are unable to secure a Haram view room. However if we are given any Haram view rooms, these are allocated on a random basis to remain as fair as possible.
Are Hajj drafts included in the package price?
Yes, the Hajj drafts as required by the Saudi government are included.
How do I get my clothes washed?
There are many laundrettes near the Haramayn in Makkah and Madinah that will wash and press your clothes, usually within 24 hours. Ask one of the Hasan Hajj organisers or at the hotel reception. The 5 Star hotels provide this service for their guests but it is considerably more expensive.
How much money do I need to take with me?
You should take a few hundred pounds with you. You will have to pay for the sacrifice (around £90) and also extra food/snacks.
How much does a meal cost?
An average meal is about 30 riyals (approx. £6).
What is the exchange rate?
The exchange rate is around 5 Saudi Riyals to the British Pound.
Should I take traveller’s cheques?
No, because you will not have your passport with you to cash them.
Where can I exchange my pounds into riyals?
There are many money exchangers dotted around Makkah and Madinah, ask one of the Hasan Hajj organisers to find one nearby. Five star hotels will normally exchange money but at a lower rate.
What if I get ill?
The group usually has a doctor that accompanies us from the UK who will be available for advice and to prescribe medicine. Most medicines are available over the counter. If you need to go to hospital, you would be entitled to free medical treatment.
How are the men and women accommodated in Mina?
Men and women stay in separate tents in Mina. The men’s and women’s tents are adjacent to each other.
Will I be able to contact my wife in Mina?
Yes, but under no circumstances will men be allowed to enter the women’s tent.
What interpretation of Islam will be adopted?
Everything will be done according to the Quran and Sunnah, in-shaa-Allah.
What happens to our suitcases during the Hajj days?
All the luggage will be kept at the Makkah Apartment and accessible if needed.
What kind of clothing should I take?
The weather is generally quite warm, so take light clothes. However in the evenings it can get cold, especially in Madinah so it would be a good idea to take a jumper.
How do I arrange to take Zamzam back to the UK?
Zamzam should be purchased at the airport on your return journey for 8 sr for pre-packed 5 litre containers.
How do I arrange my sacrifice?
We can arrange the sacrifice for you, it will cost approximately £90. You will be given the precise information in Makkah.