I’ve been contemplating going for Umrah on my own ever since Saudi Arabia allowed single women in 2021. However, finding the right time proved challenging until recently. On a cold January night, I considered buying a ticket for July, thinking it would be an ideal time for me. Yet, I realized it might be overly crowded right after Hajj, and the desert heat posed another concern. Considering cost, logistics, and weather, I decided that February was the best time for my Umrah journey. Without delay, I booked my air tickets, choosing Emirates for my desired A380 experience and a side visit to the UAE on my way back to Canada.

Opting for Thursday/Friday, I booked my flight accordingly, arriving in Mecca on Thursday evening. Knowing the significance of Umrah, I planned to spend just a day in Mecca and booked a bullet train from Mecca to Madinah at 7 pm. To save on accommodations, I secured a place through Airbnb within 1 km of the Haram Sharif. My return journey included a bullet train from Madinah to Jeddah Airport for my Dubai flight. Visa application was a breeze with my Canadian passport, receiving it in my inbox within minutes.

Next, I delved into studying the rituals of Umrah, creating a step-by-step guide using online resources, articles, and YouTube videos. I had someone experienced cross-check my preparations, ensuring accuracy. Concerned about taking Ihram during the flight, I booked a 30-minute shower at the Plaza Premium Lounge in Dubai airport upon landing.

For seamless communication in both KSA and UAE, I purchased an esim from Airalo. Closer to the departure date, I consulted my family doctor to manage any potential travel-related issues. Aware of the bullet train restrictions, I packed efficiently with one check-in luggage and one carry-on, including suitable attire for Salat. I made sure all my toiletries were fragrance-free and already cruelty-free.

Ready for my journey, my flight took off in the afternoon. Despite limited sleep, the flight was enjoyable, sharing moments with a friendly Bangladeshi couple heading to Dubai. However, the fascination with the A380 waned during disembarkation, especially as I was at the back, resulting in a lengthy exit. Rushing to the Plaza Premium Lounge, I barely made it on time for my shower and Ihram.

Emirates’ early boarding caught me off guard, but I found a companion, a Bangladeshi gentleman, for my journey to Mecca. Guiding him through the airport, we opted for Careem instead of falling for taxi scams. The dark and deserted highway made me grateful for the company. Arriving safely, I found comfort in the familiarity of a Bangladeshi caretaker and a nearby restaurant.

Performing Umrah late at night, I was struck by the magnetic presence of the Holy Kaaba. The experience, though marred by the competitive nature of some pilgrims, was profound. Completing Umrah by dawn turned out to be a wise decision. After a brief rest, I checked out from my stay, performed Jumma and a nafal tawaf, and said farewell to the Haram Sharif.

A taxi ride to the rail station concluded my time in Mecca. I encountered a Pakistani taxi driver who questioned my choice of Urdu over Bengali. Despite a brief debate, we parted ways, marking the end of my Umrah journey and a dream I had nurtured for the past 20 years.