As a Bangladeshi pilgrim, you must be curious about the Hajj accommodation. Well, it’s a deep topic that needs you to consider a lot of things like areas, services, acts, benefits, and so on in staying near Masjid Al Haram. In short, you can expect 4 zones in Makkah with transport and hotels. Apart from this, you can expect large AC tents and some facilities in Mina to share time with people in a small or big space. In Arafat, you’ll need to stay (sunrise to sunset) in tents to remember your creator. To know the accommodation and other things about Hajj, I’ll break these down for you in detail. Let’s dive into this!
What Is Hajj Accommodation?
Hajj accommodation is basically the place where you’ll stay. In the Hajj period, you’ll need to stay in different locations based on the day and stage. Here’s the sneak peek of it:
- In Makkah and Madinah, you will live in hotels or apartments. Depending on the package, it can be 5-star hotels, 4-star apartments, budget rooms, or VIP places.
- In Mina and Arafat, you will stay in large tents for a certain time. In that case, the travel guide or staff will prepare it for pilgrims.
If you are going from Bangladesh, your licensed Hajj & Umrah travel agency will arrange your accommodation. Usually, this is included in your package price. For Mina and Arafat, the Tawafa Establishments, which are the official Hajj service providers in Saudi Arabia, will set up the tents. Well, the cost is already included in the visa fees you pay when applying for Hajj. For Makkah, it can vary based on the hotel that you select from the Hajj package. Plus, not all hotels in Makkah are at the same distance from the Masjid al-Haram (the Grand Mosque). To make it easier for pilgrims, Makkah is divided into 4 zones that will guide you:
Zone A
This zone is pretty close to Masjid al-Haram. Usually, it has a direct view of the mosque’s courtyard. The plus point of this zone is that you can easily walk to the mosque for every prayer. However, this area is the most expensive compared to others.
Zone B
This zone is slightly farther than Zone A but still within walking distance. Some hotels also offer shuttle buses during prayer times in this zone. Plus, it is cheaper than Zone A but still comfortable.
Zone C
This zone is the largest area of Makkah but not within walking distance to Masjid al-Haram. In fact, you’ll always need shuttle transport to the mosque. But this zone has hotels that are mostly the budget-friendly options out there.
Zone M
This zone is close to the Sacred Mashair sites like Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. It is also good for quick travel during the Hajj days. Plus, this zone comes with hotels that will cost less than other zones.
Pro Tips: If you want easy walking access to Masjid al-Haram, go for Zone A or B. Then again, if you want cheaper options, Zone C or M is better.
What Bangladeshi Pilgrims Can Expect in Mina, Arafat & Makkah?
There are a few things that you can expect in Mina, Arafat, and Makkah. As a pilgrim, here are a few things that you should know and get prepared before going to the Hajj:
Mina
Mina will be your home for several days, like the 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul Hijjah. It’s also the place where millions of pilgrims live together in rows of similar white tents. When you first arrive in Mina, you’ll notice:
- Endless rows of large white tents. Plus, each row is neatly arranged and numbered.
- Pathways between tents with signs showing directions to toilets, prayer areas, and exits.
- A constant sound of people talking, reciting the Qur’an, or moving around.
1. Majar Al-Kabsh Camp
This camp is pretty close to Jamarat Bridge, around 300 to 700 meters away. It also makes the pelting ritual much easier because you can walk a short distance.
Plus, this camp is a lot more organized and quieter. Besides, around 5,000 pilgrims stay in this camp. Usually, it comes with better services like regular cleaning, more food variety, and better cooling.
2. Al-Muaisim Camp
This camp is 4 km from Jamarat Bridge. In other words, it needs a long walk or a shuttle bus ride for the pelting ritual. In fact, it is bigger in size with a 30,000-pilgrim capacity in many sections.
Plus, this camp has all the basic facilities like air-conditioning, food distribution, toilets, and prayer areas. Besides, you’ll notice a busy and noisy vibe because of the large number of people.
Benefits You Will Find in Mina:
- Toilets and showers are usually located outside the tents in small clusters. They are also shared by many people, so queues are common. Plus, toilets are basic but functional.
- Many tents have open spaces in front for group prayers. Sometimes tents are also rearranged so the front part is for salah and the back part for sleeping.
- Meals are provided by the Hajj organizers. It’s mostly basic foods like rice, chicken, meat curry, bread, yogurt, fruit, and bottled water. And, the taste can be different from Bangladeshi food, so be prepared.
- Bottled water is available. Plus, you’ll find large Zamzam water containers in some areas.
Tips for Mina:
- Stay away from toilets or cooking areas. These spots are also noisy, smell worse, and attract crowds.
- Choose middle or back spots since the entrances are mostly busy.
- Secure your sleeping area as soon as you arrive. In that case, you can place your bag or mat to secure the spot.
- Keep your belongings simple since the space is small.
- Respect others space to avoid disturbing them.
- Show some kindness and patience during the rituals.
- Focus on worship, avoid gossip, and wasting time.
Boundaries for Mina:
Mina has green signposts marking its boundary. Do not cross them during the required days. Plus, staying outside Mina during these days can invalidate part of your Hajj.
Arafat
The Day of Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah) is the most important day of Hajj. Unlike Mina, where the tents are your base for several days, you stay only from morning until sunset in Arafat. Here’s what you’ll notice:
- It’s a huge, open, and plain space with rows of large white tents for shade.
- Each group has its assigned tent, and inside you’ll find carpet or mats on the ground, plastic chairs or cushions, and air-conditioning or coolers to reduce the heat.
- Around you will be thousands of pilgrims in white ihram, all praying, making dua, and reciting Qur’an.
What Do You Need to Do in Arafat?
After Fajr in Mina, your group will travel to Arafat by bus. This can also take up to 1 to 3 hours due to traffic. With that, you will settle into your assigned tent, where food and water are available. At midday, a sermon (khutbah) is delivered at Masjid al-Nimra. If you can’t go there, many tents broadcast it live, so you can watch it there. Next, you will pray Dhuhr and Asr together with 2 rakats each, following the Sunnah. The rest of the time is also for worship, reflection, and dua.
Benefits You Will Find in Arafat
- Air-conditioned tents in the place of Arafat, that is more for shade and rest than sleeping.
- Toilets that are located outside are similar to Mina’s facilities. But it can have longer queues.
- Food like light meals, fruits, dates, and drinks is provided.
- Medical support, like first-aid and health teams, is available in case of heatstroke or other health issues.
Tips for Arafat:
- Spend the day in constant remembrance of Allah. This is also the day your duas are most likely to be accepted.
- Recite Tahleel, Takbeer, and Tahmeed often.
- Avoid wasting time on unnecessary talk.
- If the heat is strong, drink plenty of water and use umbrellas.
Makkah
You will stay in Makkah hotels or apartments most of the time outside worship. Your experience also depends on your Hajj package and zone.
Inside the Hotels:
If you choose a premium package, expect 2 to 4 people per room with personal beds. But, in budget packages, you’ll find that 5 to 6 people may share the room. Usually, you’ll find a private bathroom in premium hotels. However, in budget stays, you’ll need to share with more people. Almost all hotels have air conditioners, fans, and basic stuff. Daily housekeeping is available in premium zones. In budget hotels, it is available but less frequently.
Food in Makkah
The premium hotels serve buffet-style meals with international food choices. Then again, the budget packages can offer packed meals or access to nearby restaurants.
What to Expect Daily in Makkah?
- You’ll notice big crowds, especially during prayer times.
- Expect people to walk slowly in groups.
- Even inside Masjid al-Haram, reaching the Kaaba from the gates can take 10 to 15 minutes on foot.
- Plan extra time before travel between sites, as it can take time to transport.
- Due to limited personal space, you’ll find people everywhere.
Overall Thoughts on Hajj Accommodation!
For Bangladeshi pilgrims, Hajj accommodation is a mix of comfort, patience, and spiritual focus. Just be prepared and avoid crossing the boundaries or acts that invalidate the Hajj. Plus, try to focus on worship when doing Hajj. Hope you find this guide helpful to know the basics!
