Al-Hidaayah’s 2012
Hajj Tour Offering exclusive vip minA tents fAcing tHe JAmArAt tO All Our pilgrims
Tel:
0845 456 0845
email:
hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk
Website:
www.al-hidaayah.travel | 1
Picture yourself… On the Day of Arafah, as the heat of the sun beams down upon you, with your outstretched hands, tears rolling down your cheeks, seeking and begging for Allah’s Forgiveness and Mercy…
Al-Hidaayah travel ltd 436 Coventry Road, Small Heath, Birmingham, B10 0UG Tel: 0845 456 0845, Fax: 0121 753 2422, Email: hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk www.al-hidaayah.travel
✆ 0845 456 0845 Lines open 9.30am to 5.30pm on weekdays, and 9.30am to 1pm on Saturday. 2 | Al-Hidaayah’s Hajj tour 2012
Stay Focused! The goal of every pilgrim is to focus on the purpose of their journey, which is to be able to worship Allah SWT via the rites of Hajj, and returning cleansed and purified. The goal is to attain an accepted Hajj for which the reward is no less than Paradise. In order to achieve this very noble objective, one must ensure that all the necessary arrangements are in place so that there is nothing to divert your attention.
Allow Us! If you are looking for a professional Hajj tour operator who will guide you through the rites of Hajj step-by-step, take care of the logistics, provide a team of highly motivated and dedicated individuals who will accompany you from the UK to take care of your needs, then we ask you to give us the privilege of organising your Hajj trip and select one of our carefully designed packages.
Contents
As You Look On…
Why choose us? Package Summaries Our Location in Mina Meet the Team Educational & Spiritual Development Programme What’s New? ■ The 2 Week Deluxe Package ■ The 3 Week Deluxe Package ■ The 3 Week Standard-Plus Package Frequently asked Questions Picture Gallery Booking Procedure Important note
As you peruse this brochure you will see a large number of reasons why Al-Hidaayah Travel is the obvious choice for your journey of a lifetime. We have taken a great deal of care and attention to put our packages together and we are certain that you’ll find them to be amongst the best on offer in the UK. Please take a look at the subsequent pages to see what makes us stand out over and above any other Hajj tour operator. It may impress you that we have such a high satisfaction rate, or the immense amount of experience we have, or the stark contrast of professionalism between us and other operators. Well we’re happy that it impresses you, but we would like you to know that there is something greater than this – and that is our passion and strong desire to offer and facilitate Hajj packages that we would be pleased to travel on.
4-5 6 7 8 9 10 11-15 17-21 23-25 26-27 28-29 30 31
It’s Good to Talk. If there is anything that you would like to discuss or you have any issues or concerns, then please feel free to give us a call.
“Al-Hidaayah, did an outstanding job, may Allah accept it from us and them, Ameen.”
Previous Pilgrim
Tel:
0845 456 0845
Email:
hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk
Book Now
www.al-hidaayah.travel | 3
WHY CHOOSE US?
Local Expertise
Mina Location*
Unlike many of our competitors, we work with a highly experienced reputable company with local expertise, who take care of the logistics, transport, hotels etc. We have worked with this company for 13 years.
In Mina, we are one of the few companies that are located in ‘vip’ tents 10 minutes walk from the Jamrat. Most UK companies stay in the European area which is about a 1 hour walk to the Jamarat in each direction, in temperatures exceeding 40ºC!
Experience
Medical Care
With the grace of Allah, as a directly Saudi appointed, ATOL registered company, we have successfully been organising Hajj tours for more than a decade. During this period we have facilitated Hajj for well over 4000 pilgrims.
Reputation One of our biggest strengths is our reputation. This is why we sell out exceptionally quick every year. Over 90% of the people who book with us do so based on a recommendation.
Honesty & Dedication We are open and honest. We will always do our utmost to deliver what we promise. You will find us absolutely dedicated to ensuring that your Hajj is completed in the proper manner. this is more than just a business to us.
Team Our tours are accompanied by our experienced team of committed individuals that will go the extra mile to make it a journey of a lifetime. Our team is one of our most valuable assets.
Education One of our objectives is to make this journey a turning point in peoples’ lives by educating and inspiring them. From the Pre-Hajj seminar, to the literature, and the lectures in Makkah and Madinah – all of this adds so much more to the Hajj experience.
Sunnah We endeavour to facilitate your Hajj purely according to the sunnah of the prophet (s). We are always accompanied by religious experts (usually graduates from some of the best institutions like the Islamic University of Madinah) ensuring that you are given appropriate religious guidance.
4 | Al-Hidaayah’s Hajj tour 2012
Our team includes an experienced senior doctor who is available for medical advice during the days of the Hajj rites.
*subject to confirmation.
AlMashaer Trains* New One of the biggest challenges during the Hajj days is the length of the coach journeys. Often journeys of a few mile can take upto 8 hours. We will be using the brand new AlMashaer trains that can cut journey times down to a mere 15 minutes! *subject to confirmation.
Graph summarising results of the questionnaire that was completed
by last year’s pilgrims Quality of the brochure and information provided Quality of the website Quality of service provided by our staff while booking / pre-departure Booking procedure Communications after booking Seminar International Flights Hotel in Makkah Location of Hotel in Makkah Catering in Hotel (Makkah) Hotel in Madinah Location of Hotel in Madinah Catering in Hotel (Madinah) Accomodation in Aziziyyah Location od buildng in Aziziyyah Catering in Aziziyyah Accommodation in Arafat Catering in Arafat Accommodation in Mina Location of tents in Mina Catering in Mina Overall organisation during the days of the rites of Hajj Hotel in Jeddah Catering in Jeddah Coach travel Performance of group leader Performance of the organisers Commitment of the organisers Overall organisation Level of information provided during trip Quality of education programme/lectures Performance of the Religious guide Performance of the group doctor Value for Money Overall assessment of the Package
very pOOr
pOOr
sAtisfActOry
gOOD
very gOOD
Average results for all 3 packages
5%
Would You recommend Al-Hidaayah to a friend?
7%
88%
Yes Maybe No Tel:
0845 456 0845
Email:
hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk
Book Now
www.al-hidaayah.travel | 5
Package Summaries
3 Week
2 Week
3 Week
PAckAge
PAckAge
StAnDArD PLuS
5*
5*
3*
Half Board
Half Board
Breakfast
Meals in Hajj Days
✓
✓
✓
Medical Doctor (Hajj days)
✓
✓
✓
Dist. Of Hotel in Makkah
3 mins
3 mins
8mins
Dist. Of Hotel in Madinah
5 mins
5 mins
5mins
Double room availablity
✓
✓
x
Stay in Aziziyyah
x
✓
✓
Access toAziziyyah during Hajj days
x
✓
✓
£ 6150
£ 6150
£ 3895
Total Length of Package (days)
14
20
21
Working Days (leave required)
11
15
16
DeLuxe
Comparison Table Hotels Meals at Hotels
Prices From
Itinerary
DeLuxe
PAckAge
The chart below gives an outline of the itineraries of our packages. Detailed itineraries can be found on package pages. OCTOBER 2012 11
12
13
NOV 14
15
16
17
THE 2 WEEK DELUXE PACKAGE
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
MADINAH
MAKKAH
HAJJ RITES
JEDDAH JEDDAH
THE 3 WEEK DELUXE PACKAGE
MADINAH
MAKKAH
AZIZIYYAH
HAJJ RITES
THE 3 WEEK STANDARD-PLUS
MAKKAH
MADINAH
AZIZIYYAH
HAJJ RITES
1
AZIZIYYAH
Staying in
Aziziyyah* Due to a change in the Ministry of Hajj regulations and other considerations we will be spending a few nights in Aziziyyah, which is a district of Makkah, located a few miles away from the alMasjid alHaram. It will be a good opportunity to rest and prepare yourself mentally and physically for the Hajj rites on 8th Dhul-Hijjah (24th October).
During your stay in Mina you will have access to your rooms to rest and also to use the bathroom facilities.
6 | Al-Hidaayah’s Hajj Tour 2012
In Aziziyyah we will be staying in basic yet functional accommodation. All the rooms are air-conditioned. 4-5 people will be accommodated in each room. Men and women will be accommodated separately. *Not applicable to the 2 Week Deluxe Package
Our Location in Mina and AlMashaer Trains*
A Stone - Throw Away!
One of the things that make us stand out from almost all of the Uk Hajj operators is our location in Mina. We endeavour to accommodate all of our pilgrims in ‘VIP’ tents in Mina, as we have been doing every year, for the past 11 years. As you may be aware, while you are in Mina you will be required to go to the Jamarat to perform the stoning ritual almost everyday. The normal tents where the European pilgrims are accommodated are almost One hour walk away from the Jamarat, making the stoning ritual strenuous for most and impossible for others. We accommodate all our pilgrims in the ‘VIP’ area which is about a 10 minute walk from the Jamarat, making stoning very easy, especially for the elderly, infirm and sick.
AlMashaer Trains
In the tents in Mina we will provide mattresses, blankets, pillows, a 24hr supply of hot/cold drinks, and 3 meals a day.
* We aim to offer VIP tents close to the Jamarat (as we have been doing so for the last 12 years) and AlMashaer trains; however, it is not possible to guarantee these services at the time of publishing this information. If we are not able to secure these services then we will offer a refund of £450 per adult and will accommodate our pilgrims in the regular European tents and use coach transport.
Tel:
0845 456 0845
Email:
hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk
New
One of the biggest challenges faced by the pilgrims is the extremely lengthy coach journeys during the days of the Hajj rites. Often journeys of only few mile can take 6-8 hours! This is perhaps one of the most frustrating experience for many pilgrims. For those pilgrims who are accommodated in the VIP tents close to the Jamarat, they will be transported to the various Hajj sites by the brand new AlMashaer Trains. We used these trains last year, and the journey times between the various sites were extremely short. Journey that could potentially take 8 hours mere cut down to a mere 15 minutes! Book Now
www.al-hidaayah.travel | 7
Meet the Team
Our tours are accompanied by our experienced team of committed individuals that will go the extra mile to make it a journey of a lifetime. Our team is one of our most valuable assets. We have amongst the BEST ratio of Uk staff to Pilgrims: 1 Hajj Organiser to 25 Pilgrims! “leading the Al-Hidaayah Hajj group is definitely one of my annual highlights! Being in the most sacred of places, performing the noblest of actions, witnessing the magnificent Day of Arafah and being part of this noble annual assembly is something that I eagerly look forward to every year. Of course, the immense satisfaction and contentment that you feel when you consider the fact that you have assisted, even in a small way, so many people to fulfil the obligation of Hajj is something that is indescribable.”
muhammad naeem Hajj Director
Advance Team We like to go above and beyond what any other Hajj company would offer or provide. Alhamdulillah, by the Grace of Allah, we have over the years, refined our Hajj packages and processes and have mastered delivering them, down to an art!
“Down to the nitty-gritty”
“I really enjoyed the Sheikhs lectures/talks and I continue to be inspired by them in my daily life. An overall amazing experience alhamdulillah, and made easy by a fantastically motivated team of organisers.” 8 | Al-Hidaayah’s Hajj tour 2012
So, we’ve got some of the best hotels, VIP tents in Mina, private transport, to name a few, but what about those ‘little things’, which often get overlooked and make a HUGE difference in your overall experience. Things like a clean room, getting the right number and type of beds that you asked for, information about prayer times, lecture times, meals times being provided, so that you don’t have to worry and can focus on getting the most out of this journey of a lifetime.
“We’ve got it covered!” We have a dedicated team that take care of all of this and much more…
mr imran zia Lead Consultant in Emergency Medicine, Whipps Cross Hospital, London
Our team includes an experienced senior doctor who is available for advice during the days of the Hajj rites. He has been travelling as a group doctor for the last 6 years.
Educational & Spiritual Development Programme
“The religious guidance was the best thing throughout the Hajj trip”
One of our primary objectives is to make this journey a turning point in peoples’ lives by educating and inspiring them. From the Pre-Hajj seminar, to the comprehensive literature, and the lectures in Makkah and Madinah – all of this adds so much to the Hajj experience.
shaykh Abu usamah at-thahabi*
To prove how important this is to us, we have enlisted the help of three internationally renowned Islamic scholars. They have already begun preparing for our educational and spiritual development programme and are looking forward to delivering it to you.
• • • • •
BA in Shariah from Islamic University of Madinah Studied under a number of prominent scholars Decades of experience in dawah Speaks at international conferences Currently employed as an Imam and Khateeb *subject to confirmation.
We endeavour to facilitate your Hajj purely according to the Sunnah of the Prophet (s). We are always accompanied by religious experts ensuring that you are given appropriate religious guidance – you may have come across some of them before:
shaykh Wajid malik • Studied at Islamic University, Madinah • Has over a decade of experience in leading and advising
In previous years we have also been able to secure the following additional speakers to further enhance our enrichment programme:
Hajj groups • Currently working as an Imam and Khateeb
Dr. zakir naik, shaykh Dr Bilal philips, shaykh Dr yasir Qadhi, shaykh Assim alHakeem, shaykh muhammad Alshareef, and shaykh yusuf estes to name a few.
“Very well organised, excellent quality of educational lectures”
“The lectures before the Hajj were inspiring!”
Tel:
0845 456 0845
Email:
hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk
Book Now
www.al-hidaayah.travel | 9
What’s New? New Improved 3 Week Deluxe Itinerary
New Luxury Makkah hotel
Customer satisfaction is paramount to us and we strive to ensure that you have a great experience when travelling with us. We have taken on board feedback from previous customers and devised a brand new itinerary exclusively for our 3 week Deluxe package. This itinerary reduces the number of journeys, in comparison to previous years, allowing you to enjoy and take maximum benefit of this trip with much ease.
Our latest offering in luxury accommodation for our 2 Week and 3 Week Deluxe packages, is Swissôtel Makkah. Swissôtel Hotels & Resorts (part of Fairmont Raffles Hotels International) is an award-winning and distinctive group of deluxe hotels, combining renowned Swiss hospitality with contemporary design, personalised service, charm and efficiency.
We have made this modification with the expectation that it will greatly enhance your overall experience of the package and allow you to focus on what is important, inshaAllah. Please see package for further information.
Swissôtel Makkah is Swissôtel's first hotel to open in Saudi Arabia; it is located within the prestigious Abraj alBait complex, offering 1562 luxurious rooms and suites, with their modern design complementing the values of the contemporary Arabian culture. You can find further information at: www.swissotel.com/makkah
The 2 Week Deluxe Package 17 October – 31 October 2012*
itinerAry tHe 2 Week Deluxe pAckAge
OctOBer
17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 mADinAH
mAkkAH
HAJJ rites
JeDDAH
* note that a day may be lost due to flight timings and travel delays.
if you are a busy professional and are looking for a package that allows you to perform Hajj with minimum time away, then this is the package for you. Our 2 Week Deluxe package allows you to perform a complete, fulfilling Hajj without compromising on quality or experience. Our refined itinerary involves the least amount of travelling as you will be flying non-stop directly into madinah, avoiding the long processing delays generally experienced at Jeddah airport. We have also selected amongst the finest hotels, which are part of internationally renowned chains, to ensure that you are comfortable throughout your stay in the holy cities of makkah & madinah.
“The best thing about the package was the commitment of the organisers and experience of the group leaders”. Previous Pilgrim
Abdul Qayyum Group Leader Abdul Qayyum is a chartered accountant by profession. He has been leading this group for a number of years. During this period he has gained valuable experience. He is a driven individual who always excels in managing this package with ease.
The 2 Week Deluxe Package 17 October – 31 October 2012* itinerAry OctOBer
tHe 2 Week Deluxe pAckAge
17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 mADinAH
mAkkAH
minA
JeDDAH
* Note that a day may be lost due to flight timings and travel delays.
This Package Includes
DetAileD itinerAry*
• Confirmed return direct international flights with BMI • Flight arriving direct to Madinah • Acquisition of necessary visas • Hajj drafts • 5 star deluxe hotel in Makkah • 5 star hotel in Madinah • 5 Star hotel in Jeddah • 2 people in a room, all rooms ensuite • Option for an extra bed • Half board (breakfast & dinner) whilst in hotels in Makkah, Madinah & Jeddah • All meals provided during the days of the Hajj rites • All ground transportation on airconditioned coaches • Medical doctor available for advice (during Hajj days) • Expert religious guides • Extensive educational & spiritual development programme throughout tour • Pre-Hajj seminar (full day) • Dedicated VIP tents in Mina close to the Jamarat (subject to confirmation) • Dedicated tents in Arafat • Cost of the sacrifice is not included in the package • Comprehensive Hajj guidance literature • Hajj gift pack
17 October
Depart from UK,
17 October
Arrive in Madinah, check into hotel
21 October
Leave Madinah, Arrive in Makkah, check into hotel
24 October
8th Dhul-Hijjah – Check out from Makkah hotel and go to Mina. Begin the rites of Hajj
25 October
9th Dhul Hijjah – Arafat, Muzdalifah
26 October
10th Dhul-Hijjah – Mina
27 October
11th Dhul Hijjah – Mina
28 October
12th Dhul Hijjah – Mina
29 October
13th Dhul Hijjah – Leave Mina and proceed to Makkah. Perform farewell tawaf and leave for Jeddah. Check into hotel.
31 October
Check out of hotel in Jeddah and proceed to airport for flight back to the UK. Arrive in UK.
* Itinerary is based on the Islamic calendar and may need to be adjusted due to moon-sighting.
• No stay in Aziziyah • Excellent itinerary, with direct flight to Madinah • Least amount of travelling possible
Cost Per Person
triple Occupancy* £6150 Double Occupancy £6295 * During the Hajj season, the third bed in a triple occupancy room normally consists of a rollaway bed, and rooms can be a little cramped as these rooms would normally be configured as double rooms outside the Hajj season. Double room does not necessarily mean a king-size bed; it could consist of 2 single beds.
“Well organised and well informed from outset to the end, without any worries…..May Allah reward you all”
nOte: During the days of the Hajj rites, all our packages include 3 meals a day, 24 hour supply of hot and cold drinks. We aim to offer tents close to the Jamarat, however, it is not possible to confirm these tents at the time of printing of the brochure. If we are unable to secure these tents then we will offer a refund of £450 per adult and will accommodate our pilgrims in the regular European tents. This package does not include access to a building in Aziziyyah during the days of Hajj. All of our ground transportation is on air-conditioned coaches – we do not use government buses which are shared with others (except from airport to hotel). The buses that we use are exclusively for our group and are at our disposal throughout the Hajj days.
12 | Al-Hidaayah’s Hajj tour 2012
The 2 Week Deluxe Package with air-conditioning, direct dial telephone, electronic safe, mini-fridge, satellite TV, wireless internet, as well as tea and coffee making facilities.
KING ABDUL AZIZ GATE
SAFA
AJYAD AREA
For further information, visit: www.swissotel.com/makkah
MISFILAH AREA
Rooms are spacious and stylishly-designed, exuding an air of elegance and tranquillity that charms the most discerning guest. Rooms are equipped to the highest standard,
Tel:
KING FAHD GATE
AJYAD STREET
The hotel is favourably located above a large shopping mall offering easy and convenient access to amenities and eateries, as well as being amongst the closest hotels to alMasjid alHaram. The closest entrance to the masjid is via King Abdul-Aziz gate.
Part of the prestigious Abraj alBait complex, the deluxe Swissôtel Makkah offers 1562 luxurious rooms and suites. A trusted, award-winning and distinctive brand of deluxe hotels (part of Fairmont Raffles Hotels International), combines renowned Swiss hospitality with contemporary design, personalised service, charm and efficiency.
UMRAH GATE
OAD LIL R KHA
Swissôtel – 5 Star Deluxe
MARWA
HIM IBRA
The hotel offers an outstanding culinary experience via Signature Restaurant, Café Swiss or its 24-hour in-room dining option.
Makkah
SHAMIYAH AREA
0845 456 0845
Email:
hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk
Book Now
www.al-hidaayah.travel | 13
Madinah
Radisson Blu – 5 Star Radisson Blu is known for creating iconic buildings with individual interiors invoking an inviting, exciting ambiance and offering a holistic hospitality experience.
QIBLAH
14 | Al-Hidaayah’s Hajj tour 2012
Located a mere 5 minutes walk from the Prophet’s Mosque, this luxuriously designed 5 star Radisson Blu Hotel boasts 307 beautifully appointed guest rooms and superb facilities. Designed to exceed the expectations of pilgrims, the hotel offers the ideal combination of luxurious guest rooms, superb dining and a commitment to the highest service standards.
The hotel’s stylish all-day dining restaurant spoils guests for choice with a versatile à la carte menu and a varied buffet. To indulge in the unforgettable gastronomic experience in the privacy of your room, take benefit of 24hour room service. In addition to being situated in close proximity to the Prophet’s Mosque, there are a large number of shopping outlets and eateries nearby. For further information, visit: www.radissonblu.com/hotel-almadinah
The 2 Week Deluxe Package
“I just want to thank you on behalf of myself and my parents for the hospitality and kindness and the excellent service conveyed to us that enabled us to complete our Hajj. This was the best, most enjoyable journey I have experienced in my life so far and I felt compelled to write and convey thanks.” Previous Pilgrim
Jeddah
InterContinental – 5 Star Being part of the InterContinental Hotels chain represents excellent service and rooms that offer the best in comfort and are consistent to the hotel’s lavish décor. In addition to the luxurious rooms, the hotel also offers a variety of health and recreational facilities including an outdoor swimming pool, sports court, sauna and much more. It is situated on the corniche, in the Al-Hamra district, overlooking the Red Sea and Jeddah’s King Fahd fountain, famously the tallest fountain in the world. It is also the hotel that won the highly acclaimed ‘Best Business Hotel’ by Business Traveller Middle East Magazine. For further information, visit: www.intercontinental.com/jeddah
Tel:
0845 456 0845
Email:
hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk
Book Now
www.al-hidaayah.travel | 15
The 3 Week Deluxe Package 11 October – 31 October 2012* itinerAry OctOBer
11
12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 mADinAH
mAkkAH
AziziyyAH
HAJJ rites
29
30 31 JeDDAH
* subject to flight confirmation (dates may vary by a day in either direction).
Our ever-popular 3 Week Deluxe package has now been improved based on feedback received over the last few years. We have devised a brand new itinerary that reduces the number of journeys, allowing you to enjoy and take maximum benefit of this trip with much ease. this is the package for you, if you are after a comfortable, unrushed, hassle-free Hajj package that is great value for money and gives you the opportunity to enjoy your stay in makkah and madinah.
“An excellent package, very well organised, excellent group of organisers”. Previous Pilgrim
Adnan khan Group Leader
NEW IMPROVED ITINERARY
Adnan is a marketing manager by profession who has been leading Hajj groups for the last 7 years. He is energetic and enthusiastic and always ready to fo the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.
The 3 Week Deluxe Package 11 October – 31 October 2012* itinerAry OctOBer
11
12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 mADinAH
mAkkAH
AziziyyAH
HAJJ rites
29
30 31 JeDDAH
* Subject to flight confirmation (dates may vary by a day in either direction).
This Package Includes
DetAileD itinerAry*
• • • • • • •
11 October
Depart from UK
12 October
Arrive in Jeddah. Proceed to Madinah; check into hotel
17 October
Leave Madinah. Proceed to Makkah; check into hotel. Perform Umrah
21 October
Proceed to Aziziyyah.
24 October
8th Dhul-Hijjah – Go to Mina, begin the rites of Hajj
25 October
9th Dhul Hijjah – Arafat, Muzdalifah
26 October
10th Dhul-Hijjah – Mina
27 October
11th Dhul Hijjah – Mina
28 October
12th Dhul Hijjah – Mina
29 October
13th Dhul Hijjah – Leave Mina and proceed to Makkah. Perform farewell tawaf and leave for Jeddah. Check into hotel.
31 October
Check out of hotel in Jeddah and proceed to airport for flight back to the UK
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Return international flights Acquisition of necessary visas Hajj drafts 5 star deluxe hotel in Makkah 5 star hotel in Madinah 5 Star hotel in Jeddah Building in Aziziyyah during the days of the Hajj rites (walking distance to the Mina tents) 2 people in a room, all rooms ensuite (except Aziziyyah) Option for an extra bed Half board (breakfast & dinner) whilst in hotels in Makkah, Madinah & Jeddah All meals provided during staying in Aziziyyah and the days of the Hajj rites All ground transportation on air-conditioned dedicated coaches Medical doctor available for advice (during Hajj days) Expert religious guides Extensive educational & spiritual development programme throughout tour Tour of historical/religious sites in Makkah & Madinah Pre-Hajj seminar (full day) Dedicated VIP tents in Mina close to the Jamarat (subject to confirmation) Dedicated tents in Arafat Cost of the sacrifice is not included in the package Comprehensive Hajj guidance literature Hajj gift pack
NEW IMPROVED ITINERARY
* Itinerary is based on the Islamic calendar and may need to be adjusted due to moon-sighting.
Cost Per Person
triple Occupancy* £6150 Double Occupancy £6295 * During the Hajj season, the third bed in a triple occupancy room normally consists of a rollaway bed, and rooms can be a little cramped as these rooms would normally be configured as double rooms outside the Hajj season. Double room does not necessarily mean a kingsize bed; it could consist of 2 single beds.
If you are after a comfortable, hassle-free Hajj package that is great value for money
nOte: During the days of the Hajj rites, all our packages include 3 meals a day, 24 hour supply of hot and cold drinks. We aim to offer tents close to the Jamarat, however, it is not possible to confirm these tents at the time of printing of the brochure. If we are not able to secure these tents then we will offer a refund of £450 per adult and will accommodate our pilgrims in the regular European tents. All of our ground transportation is on air-conditioned coaches – we do not use government buses which are shared with others (except from airport to hotel). The buses that we use are exclusively for our group and are at our disposal throughout the Hajj days.
18 | Al-Hidaayah’s Hajj tour 2012
The 3 Week Deluxe Package with air-conditioning, direct dial telephone, electronic safe, mini-fridge, satellite TV, wireless internet, as well as tea and coffee making facilities.
KING ABDUL AZIZ GATE
SAFA
AJYAD AREA
For further information, visit: www.swissotel.com/makkah
MISFILAH AREA
Rooms are spacious and stylishly-designed, exuding an air of elegance and tranquillity that charms the most discerning guest. Rooms are equipped to the highest standard,
Tel:
KING FAHD GATE
AJYAD STREET
The hotel is favourably located above a large shopping mall offering easy and convenient access to amenities and eateries, as well as being amongst the closest hotels to alMasjid alHaram. The closest entrance to the masjid is via King Abdul-Aziz gate.
Part of the prestigious Abraj alBait complex, the deluxe Swissôtel Makkah offers 1562 luxurious rooms and suites. A trusted, award-winning and distinctive brand of deluxe hotels (part of Fairmont Raffles Hotels International), combines renowned Swiss hospitality with contemporary design, personalised service, charm and efficiency.
UMRAH GATE
OAD LIL R KHA
Swissôtel – 5 Star Deluxe
MARWA
HIM IBRA
The hotel offers an outstanding culinary experience via Signature Restaurant, Café Swiss or its 24-hour in-room dining option.
Makkah
SHAMIYAH AREA
0845 456 0845
Email:
hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk
Book Now
www.al-hidaayah.travel | 19
Madinah
Radisson Blu – 5 Star Radisson Blu is known for creating iconic buildings with individual interiors invoking an inviting, exciting ambiance and offering a holistic hospitality experience.
QIBLAH
20 | Al-Hidaayah’s Hajj tour 2012
Located just 70 metres from the Prophet’s Mosque, this luxuriously designed 5 star Radisson Blu Hotel boasts 307 beautifully appointed guest rooms and superb facilities. Designed to exceed the expectations of pilgrims, the hotel offers the ideal combination of luxurious guest rooms, superb dining and a commitment to the highest service standards.
The hotel’s stylish all-day dining restaurant spoils guests for choice with a versatile à la carte menu and a varied buffet. To indulge in the unforgettable gastronomic experience in the privacy of your room, take benefit of 24hour room service. In addition to being situated in close proximity to the Prophet’s Mosque, there are a large number of shopping outlets and eateries nearby. For further information, visit: www.radissonblu.com/hotel-almadinah
The 3 Week Deluxe Package
“During the three weeks I was in Saudi Arabia I observed how committed you all were to making the experience of Hajj a memorable one for all of us.” Previous Pilgrim
Jeddah
Le Méridien – 5 Star Le Méridien Jeddah offers a truly unique experience in every one of its stylish guestrooms. Chicly modern, it opens with a sleek black marble lobby which leads to 284 sun-filled, spacious guest rooms. Warm earth tones in addition to the luxurious sitting and work areas create an inviting ambiance for every guest to experience and enjoy. The spacious rooms offer outstanding comfort. Le Méridien is world renowned for attention to detail and dedication to exemplary customer service. The hotel boasts three restaurants offering an abundance of gastronomic choices, from international cuisines to Moroccan or Mexican menus. For further information, visit: www.lemeridien-jeddah.com
Tel:
0845 456 0845
Email:
hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk
Book Now
www.al-hidaayah.travel | 21
The 3 Week Standard-Plus Package 11 October – 1 November 2012* itinerAry OctOBer
11
nOv
12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 mAkkAH
mADinAH
AziziyyAH
HAJJ rites
1
AziziyyAH
* note that a day may be lost due to flight timings and travel delays.
Our 3 Week Standard-Plus package is an affordable package that does not compromise on quality of service. Having run this package for the last 8 years, it consistently receives a glowing report from pilgrims. We believe this is the cheapest package in the UK which offers VIP tents close the the Jamarat.
“During the three weeks I was in Saudi Arabia I observed how committed you all were to making the experience of Hajj a memorable one for all of us.” Previous Pilgrim
Hussain Group Leader Hussain is a successful businessman who is an extremely committed member of the team and has been with Al-Hidaayah for almost a decade. very experienced and hard working.
The 3 Week Standard-Plus Package 11 October – 1 November 2012* itinerAry OctOBer
11
12
nOv
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 mAkkAH
mADinAH
AziziyyAH
HAJJ rites
1
AziziyyAH
* Note that a day may be lost due to flight timings and travel delays.
This Package Includes
DetAileD itinerAry*
• Confirmed return direct international flights with BMI • Acquisition of necessary visas • Hajj drafts • 3 star hotel in Makkah • 3 star hotel in Madinah • Building in Aziziyyah during the days of the Hajj rites (walking distance to the Mina tents) • Triple and Quad rooms available, all rooms ensuite (except Aziziyyah) • Breakfast whilst in hotels in Makkah and Madinah • All meals provided during stay in Aziziyyah and the days of the Hajj rites • All meals provided during stay in Aziziyyah • All ground transportation on airconditioned dedicated coaches • Medical doctor available for advice (during Hajj days) • Expert religious guides • Extensive educational & spiritual development programme throughout tour • Tour of historical/religious sites in Makkah & Madinah • Pre-Hajj seminar (full day) • Dedicated VIP tents in Mina close to the Jamarat (subject to confirmation) • Dedicated tents in Arafat • Cost of the sacrifice is not included in the package • Comprehensive Hajj guidance literature • Hajj gift pack
11 October
Depart from UK
12 October
Arrive in Jeddah. Proceed to Makkah; check into hotel. Perform Umrah
17 October
Leave Makkah. Proceed to Madinah; check into hotel.
21 October
Leave Madinah. Proceed to Aziziyyah.
24 October
8th Dhul-Hijjah – Go to Mina, begin the rites of Hajj
25 October
9th Dhul Hijjah – Arafat, Muzdalifah
26 October
10th Dhul-Hijjah – Mina
27 October
11th Dhul Hijjah – Mina
28 October
12th Dhul Hijjah – Mina
29 October
13th Dhul Hijjah – Leave Mina and return to Aziziyyah.
1 november
Leave Aziziyyah. Perform farewell tawaf and leave for Jeddah to airport for flight back to the UK. Arrive in UK
* Itinerary is based on the Islamic calendar and may need to be adjusted due to moon-sighting.
Cost Per Person
Quad Occupancy* triple Occupancy * During the Hajj season rooms can be cramped as these rooms would normally be configured as double rooms outside the Hajj season.
£3895 £4095 JazakAllah khayr to the Al-Hidaayah team for all their efforts and patience. We learnt so much and your advice helped the whole experience.
nOte: During the days of the Hajj rites, all our packages include 3 meals a day, 24 hour supply of hot and cold drinks. We aim to offer tents close to the Jamarat, however, it is not possible to confirm these tents at the time of printing of the brochure. If we are not able to secure these tents then we will offer a refund of £450 per adult and will accommodate our pilgrims in the regular European tents. All of our ground transportation is on air-conditioned coaches – we do not use government buses which are shared with others (except from airport to hotel). The buses that we use are exclusively for our group and are at our disposal throughout the Hajj days.
24 | Al-Hidaayah’s Hajj tour 2012
The 3 Week Standard-Plus Package
SHAMIYAH AREA
Makkah
MARWA
HIM IBRA
UMRAH GATE
OAD LIL R KHA
Fal Al-Saha – 3 Star
KING FAHD GATE KING ABDUL AZIZ GATE
AJYAD STREET
Belonging to the AlReyadah International group, this contemporary hotel consists of 228 guestrooms. The hotel offers basic accommodation, with a reasonable standard of housekeeping. All the rooms are ensuite. The hotel is located on AlHijrah St, approximately 8 minutes walk from alMasjid alHaram.
SAFA
AJYAD AREA
MISFILAH AREA
“Couldn’t have asked for a better group of brothers to share my experience with. Really stress free package, Fantastic”
Madinah
Mubarak AlMadinah – 3 Star Part of the Mubarak Hotels Group, this contemporary hotel offers a good standard of accommodation with polite and helpful staff. The hotel has a reasonable standard of housekeeping and comfortable furniture. All rooms have an ensuite bathroom. The hotel is situated approximately 5 minutes walk away from the Prophet’s Mosque, on the northern side, close to the central shopping area.
QIBLAH Tel:
0845 456 0845
Email:
hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk
Book Now
www.al-hidaayah.travel | 25
Frequently asked Questions anyone accompany Q: Does the group from the Uk? yes, over 15 organisers accompany the group from the uk, most of whom have performed Hajj many times. All organisers are fluent in English as well as a few who 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.
Q:
Do you provide any religious guidance?
Yes, we try to organise regular lectures whilst in Saudi Arabia, covering the rites of Hajj in detail. Al-Hidaayah staff will be with you throughout the trip and available to answer any questions
Q:
Is the source of the money that I use for Hajj important?
The money that you use to pay for the Hajj must be from Halal sources. It is stated in a Prophetic tradition, ‘Indeed Allah is Pure and accepts only that which is pure.’
Q: What if I get ill? A medical doctor that accompanies us from the UK, who will be available for advice and to prescribe medicine during the days of the Hajj rites. Most medicines are available over the counter. If you need to go to hospital, you would be entitled to free medical treatment at government hospitals.
will we accommodated Q: How in Aziziyyah? Those on the 3 Week Deluxe & 3 Week Standard Plus packages will be spending a few nights in Aziziyyah before the Hajj begins. As there will be 4 or 5 people in
26 | Al-Hidaayah’s Hajj tour 2012
each room, the male and female pilgrims will be split into separate rooms. Therefore you will be unable to stay with your family members during these few nights. The accommodation will be basic yet functional. All rooms will be airconditioned.
Why is the 2 Week Deluxe Q: Package not cheaper than the 3 Week Deluxe Package? Although the 2 Week Deluxe package is shorter, the period of stay in the hotels in Makkah and Madinah fall on peak dates attracting extremely high rates. The 3 Week Deluxe package stays in Makkah when the hotel rates are slightly lower.
are the men and women Q: How accommodated in Mina? Men and women stay in separate tents in Mina. The men’s and women’s tents are normally adjacent to each other.
Will I be able to contact my Q: wife in Mina? Yes, but under no circumstances will men be allowed to enter the women’s tent and vice versa.
interpretation of Q: What Islam will be adopted? Everything will be done according to the Quran & Sunnah, insha Allah.
What happens to our suitcases Q: during the Hajj days? During the Hajj days your suitcases will be kept in storage, so that you do not have to carry them around with you.
I have access to hotel Q: Will facilities during our stay in Mina? No, during the days of the rites of Hajj we will not have access to any hotel facilities. However those on the 3 Week Deluxe package and 3 Week Standard Plus package will have access to our building in Aziziyyah, although you will be expected to make your own way.
How do I arrange my Q: sacrifice? We can arrange the sacrifice for you; it will cost approximately £75.You will be given the precise information upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.
Is there any provision for Q: vegetarians? Unfortunately Al-Hidaayah cannot make any provision for vegetarians for the meals served during the Hajj days. Meals served in the hotels do normally have a variety of dishes and will usually include some vegetarian dishes, however we cannot guarantee this.
Q: Can I change the flight dates? The flight dates are not changeable.
you organise for me to Q: Can fly on to another destination after the completion of Hajj? All pilgrims must travel on our flights both into Saudi Arabia and also back to the UK.
to visit your Q: DoofficeI need to book? No, you may book online (www.al-hidaayah.travel/book) or post your booking form and deposit to us. All valuable documents should be sent to us using Special Delivery. Likewise we will return all valuable documents via Special Delivery.
…We were particularly impressed by the manner in which no matter “what unexpected weather or traffic circumstances ensued, your staff
remained calm yet showed initiative to ensure that all the customers were able to complete their Hajj successfully and safely with the least amount of effort. Previous Pilgrim
”
Tel:
0845 456 0845
Email:
hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk
Book Now
www.al-hidaayah.travel | 27
28 | Al-Hidaayah’s Hajj tour 2012
Tel:
0845 456 0845
Email:
hajj@al-hidaayah.co.uk
Book Now
www.al-hidaayah.travel | 29
Booking Procedure In Person Why not pop in and have a chat with our friendly staff and ask any questions that you may have?
Online the 3-step easy and secure booking process 1. visit www.al-hidaayah.travel/book and select ‘Book for Hajj’ 2. complete basic contact form 3. pay deposit of £1000 per person (non-refundable) via secure payment gateway
Takes less than 3 minutes!
By Post 1. All applicants must complete a separate booking form as fully as possible; please call us if you require a booking form or download one from our website.
2. A £1000 deposit per person must accompany the booking form (non-refundable). 3. A passport photocopy for each applicant must also be submitted at the time of booking.
Payment Methods: Cash, Bank Transfer, Debit Card or by Cheque. Cheques should be made payable to ‘Al-Hidaayah Travel Ltd’.
Additional Requirements final payment of balance and the following are also required by 1st september 2012: 1. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel. Non-European Community (EC) passport holders must have permanent residency and must have entered the UK two months prior to applying. Note: We will retain your passport until visas have been issued, which could take until close to the departure date. 2. 4 passport sized photographs (white background). 3. A completed visa application form (which will be sent to you) 4. A valid meningitis (ACWY) immunisation certificate
We have limited places available and usually sell out fast! To avoid disappointment, book as soon as possible. 30 | Al-Hidaayah’s Hajj tour 2012
Important Note: Hajj can be physically very demanding. Unfortunately we are not able to take responsibility for any pilgrims that have special requirements. In order to complete the rites of Hajj we require that all pilgrims are fit enough to walk for approximately 45 minutes. In case any pilgrim is not fit enough to do so, he/she should take a wheelchair with them as well as a companion who will take responsibility for them. We also strongly recommend that pilgrims seek medical clearance from their GP before booking, particularly the elderly and sick. Please note that the journey of Hajj cannot be equated to holiday travel. During this journey the unexpected is often the norm; despite meticulous planning and organisation the Hajj journey can never be taken for granted like a normal holiday. Hotels, transport and public services are all pushed to their limits during the Hajj season; therefore do not expect the same level of service that you are accustomed to in the UK or when visiting outside of the Hajj season. Due to the large number of pilgrims in a small area, the crowds can be overwhelming. Furthermore, due to major traffic congestion, expect very long delays whilst waiting for buses to arrive and moving from one location to another.
436 cOventry rOAD, smAll HeAtH, BirmingHAm B10 0ug. t: 0845 456 0845 f: 0121 753 2422 emAil: HAJJ@Al-HiDAAyAH.cO.uk WWW.Al-HiDAAyAH.trAvel tHe Air HOliDAys AnD fligHts ADvertiseD in tHis BrOcHure Are AtOl prOtecteD By tHe civil AviAtiOn AutHOrity. Our AtOl numBer is AtOl 10509. © cOpyrigHt Al-HiDAAyAH trAvel ltD 2012