Embark on a meaningful 5-day spiritual journey to Makkah and Madinah, Saudi Arabia, thoughtfully designed for a family of seven including an elder, children, and an infant. This moderate-budget trip prioritizes comfort and accessibility, dedicating three days to Makkah and two to Madinah for exploring sacred and cultural sites.
Depart from Chennai International Airport (MAA) for your flight to King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Your journey will include one stop. Be prepared for a long travel day with your family.
Ensure all travel documents, visas, and health certificates are in order for the entire group, especially for the infant and elder person. Keep essential medications and baby supplies easily accessible.
Spend the evening and night on your flight.
Try to get as much rest as possible to prepare for your arrival and the spiritual journey ahead.
Comfortable clothing is recommended. Airlines often provide bassinets for infants; confirm this with your carrier in advance. Stay hydrated.
Arrive at King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah.
Proceed through immigration and customs. Given the early morning arrival and group size, allow ample time for these procedures.
Have your passports, visas, and any necessary entry permits readily available. Assist the elder person and children through the process. Public toilets and prayer areas are available.
Take a pre-booked private taxi service from Jeddah Airport directly to your hotel in Makkah.
This is the most convenient option for a family with an elder and young children.
Confirm meeting point with driver. Ensure sufficient space for luggage, strollers, and car seats if needed. Prices vary based on vehicle size and service.
Recommended to pre-book a larger vehicle (van/SUV) for comfort. Companies like Hujjaj Umrah Taxi are highly rated for this service.
Check into your hotel near Masjidil Haram.
After a long journey, prioritize rest for the entire group, especially the elder, children, and infant. Allow yourselves to freshen up and sleep.
Request adjacent rooms or a family suite if available. Ensure the room is comfortable and conducive to rest for all members.
After preparing and making your intentions, proceed to Masjidil Haram to perform the rituals of Umrah: Tawaf around the Kaaba and Sa'i between Safa and Marwah.
Take your time, especially with the family.
Perform Wudu before heading to the Haram. Consider using wheelchairs for the elder if needed (available for rent). Keep children close. Water (Zamzam) is readily available. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293993-d6881993-Reviews-Masjidil_Haram_Mekkah-Mecca_Makkah_Province.html
Perform Maghrib prayer in Masjidil Haram or at your hotel.
Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a nearby restaurant, ensuring options suitable for all ages.
Many hotels have family-friendly dining options. Look for restaurants offering traditional Saudi cuisine or international dishes. Consider a quiet meal to help the children and infant settle.
Begin your day with Fajr prayer at Masjidil Haram, followed by personal devotion, Quran recitation, and contemplation.
Take advantage of the peaceful early morning hours for prayer and devotion. Ensure a designated adult is with the children/infant if not all family members go to the Haram.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, ensuring a good start to the day for everyone.
Many hotels near the Haram offer extensive breakfast buffets with various options suitable for all ages.
Undertake a guided Ziyarat (sightseeing tour) of important historical and religious sites around Makkah, such as Mount Uhud, Jabal al-Nour (Mount Noor) and Mina.
This is typically done via a private taxi or small tour bus. Viewing from the vehicle is recommended for the elder, children, and infant.
Book a private vehicle in advance for comfort and flexibility. Confirm the tour will be comfortable for all members of your group. Booking: Hujjaj Umrah Taxi (https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293993-d23849969-Reviews-Hujjaj_Umrah_Taxi-Mecca_Makkah_Province.html)
Perform Dhuhr prayer at Masjidil Haram, then have lunch at a family-friendly restaurant.
Consider options close to the Haram for convenience.
There are many food courts and restaurants catering to pilgrims. Look for places with indoor seating and air conditioning for comfort.
Utilize the afternoon for further rest at the hotel, especially for the elder and children, or for individual Ibadah and Quran reading at Masjidil Haram.
This flexibility allows for rejuvenation before the evening prayers. Take advantage of the hotel amenities.
Attend Maghrib and Isha prayers at Masjidil Haram.
Conclude your day with a relaxed dinner, perhaps trying a different local eatery.
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere around the Haram after evening prayers. Consider a light dinner for the children and infant.
Depart from Makkah to Madinah by private taxi.
Enjoy scenic views during the comfortable 4-5 hour journey.
Recommended to book a private taxi for comfort, especially with an elder, children, and infant. 'Hujjaj Umrah Taxi' offers inter-city transfers.
Check into your hotel in Madinah.
Take some time to freshen up and relax after your journey, especially important before Jummah prayers.
Attend the sacred Friday congregational prayers at Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, one of Islam's holiest sites.
Arrive early to find a good spot.
Ensure modest dress. Women have separate prayer areas. Be mindful of crowds, especially on Fridays. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298551-d319516-Reviews-Al_Masjid_an_Nabawi-Medina_Al_Madinah_Province.html?m=66827
Visit the Rawdah ash-Sharifah, the sacred area between the Prophet's grave and his pulpit.
Seek blessings in this blessed part of the mosque.
Access to Rawdah for men and women is at specific times, often requiring prior booking or queueing. This can be challenging with a large group and young children; consider if all members can participate.
Spend time exploring the vast courtyards of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, admire the architecture, and view The Green Dome from outside.
Enjoy the tranquility and beautiful surroundings. The Green Dome houses the tomb of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and other early Islamic figures.
Enjoy a traditional Saudi Arabian dinner at a restaurant close to Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, offering easy access back to the hotel.
Perform the Fajr (dawn) prayer at Al-Masjid an-Nabawi, experiencing the serene early morning atmosphere.
Undertake a brief visit to Mount Uhud, a historically significant site from early Islamic battles.
This is a quick stop for reflection.
Consider if this short visit is feasible with your group and departure schedule. Prioritize comfort and timely airport arrival.
A short taxi ride from the hotel (approx. 15-20 minutes each way). Given your 11:20 AM flight, this must be a very efficient visit.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe, then proceed with checking out from your accommodation.
Ensure all belongings are packed and ready for departure.
Travel from your hotel to Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) for your return flight.
Book a taxi in advance for a smooth transfer. Allow ample time for check-in and security.
Complete check-in procedures and go through airport security for your flight back to Chennai.
Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time of 11:20 AM, especially with a large group and children.
Board your flight from Madinah (MED) back to Chennai (MAA), concluding your Umrah journey.
This 5-day itinerary for Makkah can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.