My Journey to Umrah and Hajj – And Why I Created a Guide for You

Bismillah

The first time I went to Umrah was back in 2017 with my family. I still remember holding onto a small flip guide that showed me step by step what to do. But to be completely honest, I hadn’t really prepared myself properly. I didn’t know the deeper meaning behind each ritual, and I wish I had taken the time to learn more about it.

One thing I’ve realised is that Umrah is by invitation only – Allah SWT chooses who He calls. And when you’re blessed with that invitation, you have to make the most of it.

My Second Umrah – 2023

Fast forward to November 2023, Alhamdulilah, I was invited again, this time with my younger brother. It was a last-minute trip, so I found myself once again rushing to figure out what I needed to do. Despite the short notice, Allah SWT blessed me with such a beautiful experience. It was a reminder that preparation matters, but sincerity and connection with Allah SWT matter most.

The Greatest Invitation – Hajj 2024

Then came the most special invitation of all – Hajj in June 2024. Alhamdulilah, truly the journey of a lifetime. This time, I had 2–3 months to prepare. I read books, attended seminars, watched online lectures, and even made myself a little guide with checklists and duas.

During this preparation, something clicked for me:

If this guide I created for myself helped me, how many other first-time pilgrims could benefit from something similar?

At the same time, I had already started working on Islamic trivia cards and began shaping the idea for a Hajj & Umrah guide. Both were born out of the idea that Islamic learning should be made simple, meaningful, and accessible.

I officially launched my Islamic trivia cards in February 2025, and shortly after, the Hajj & Umrah guides.

Why I Created the Guides

When I first went to Umrah in 2017, I understood certain stories, like the beautiful sacrifice of Hajar (AS) running between Safa and Marwa. I even remember telling this story to my older brother as we performed Sa’i together. But at the same time, there were important things I didn’t know – like the significance of Maqaam Ibrahim and other details that would have deepened my understanding.

That mix of knowing some things but missing others showed me how much a proper guide could benefit first-time pilgrims.

That’s why I’ve created:

  • Mini Umrah Flip Guide – a simple, easy-to-carry guide that shows you how to perform Umrah step by step. Perfect for first-timers or anyone who wants reminders on the go.

  • Your Journey to Hajj & Umrah – a simple, heartfelt guidebook that explains the “why” behind the rituals, shares essential duas, and helps you prepare mentally and spiritually.

I’ve also included stories within the guide to give pilgrims a deeper connection – such as the construction of the Kaaba, the story of Hajar (AS) and Ismail (AS), and the miracle of Zamzam water. These stories bring the rituals to life and help us understand the sacrifices behind them.

"The Ḥujjaj (those performing the Major Pilgrimage) and the ʿUmmār (those performing the Minor Pilgrimage) are Allah’s delegation, If they call upon Him, He will answer them; and if they seek His forgiveness, He will forgive them."

(Ibn Majah)

For the First-Time Pilgrim (and Beyond)

Whether you’re going for Umrah or preparing for Hajj, my goal with these resources is to make sure you don’t feel unprepared the way I once did.

These guides are designed to give you confidence, clarity, and connection with Allah SWT on your sacred journey.

Alhamdulilah, every time we’re invited is a blessing. Let’s make the most of it.

👉 Shop the Guides Here

With love & Dua’s

Deen Diaries


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