Umrah From the Netherlands as an Indonesian: Real Experience, Tips, and What to Expect

Quick Answer

Doing Umrah from the Netherlands as an Indonesian is very possible, even with a tight timeline, as long as your visa and documents are handled quickly. Travel routes usually involve transit flights, and preparation such as wearing Ihram during transit is essential. The experience itself is intense, both physically and emotionally, with long walking hours and crowded conditions. Choosing the right clothing, packing smart, and following your group guidance makes a big difference. If you are emotionally ready and well-prepared, this journey can be one of the most meaningful experiences in your life.

Intro

If you are an Indonesian living in the Netherlands and wondering whether you should go to Umrah, this article will help you decide. This is not just a story, but a real experience combined with practical guidance so you know what to expect. I will walk you through the process, the challenges, and the emotional side of the journey. You will also find clear tips, mistakes to avoid, and how to prepare properly.

This journey happened in February 2024, and every detail here reflects what I personally experienced, from booking to returning home.

From Desire to Reality: Booking Umrah from the Netherlands

On January 27th, 2024, I was sitting with my husband, casually browsing Umrah travel options. That moment turned into a real decision.

We found a departure on February 8th, which aligned perfectly after Caesar’s final exams on February 6th and 7th. That detail mattered a lot to me, because I wanted to stay fully present for him before leaving.

What made this date even more meaningful for me is that February 8th also fell on the day of Isra Mi’raj. That gave me a deeper feeling that this journey was not just well-timed, but also spiritually aligned in a way I could not ignore.

There were two packages available, comfort and economy. The comfort package was already full, so I took the economy option without overthinking too much.

As an Indonesian passport holder living in the Netherlands, my main concern was visa timing. Thankfully, the travel agency confirmed everything could be arranged quickly. I still remember my hands shaking while filling in my details. That was the moment it became real.

Preparation Before Departure

On February 1st, I received everything, ticket, hotel details, visa, and itinerary for February 8th to 17th.

I joined an online briefing and started watching videos to understand the Umrah steps better. At that time, I tried to memorize duas, because I did not want to depend on reading during the rituals. I wanted to stay fully present during every moment.

However, if you find it difficult to memorize the duas, there is no need to worry. The group leader will usually recite them clearly and loudly, and you can simply follow along. This helped me feel more calm, knowing I did not have to do everything perfectly on my own.

What helped me most

• Following the group leader during recitations
• Preparing mentally, not just practically
• Accepting that I would not do everything perfectly

Flight and Miqat Experience

My route was Amsterdam → Cairo → Jeddah.

In Cairo, we already had to prepare for Ihram. I remember going to the airport restroom, changing clothes, adjusting my hijab, and quietly thinking, “This is really happening.” It still felt a bit unreal at that moment, like I was preparing for something big but not fully understanding it yet.

Ihram itself is not just clothing, but a sacred state that marks the beginning of Umrah. For men, it consists of two simple white pieces of cloth, one wrapped around the waist and one over the upper body. For women, there is no specific uniform, but we are required to wear modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers the body properly, along with a hijab. I personally wore a simple abaya that felt comfortable enough to move in for a long time.

Then came the moment on the plane.

The pilot announced that we were approaching the miqat. Suddenly, the atmosphere in the cabin changed. People started getting ready, some sitting up straight, some whispering, some already emotional.

And then the Talbiyah started.

Not loudly at first, just soft voices here and there. Then more people joined. Slowly, it filled the space.

Labbaik Allahumma labbaik, labbaika la sharika laka labbaik, innal hamda wan ni’mata laka wal mulk, la sharika lak.

( Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily all praise and blessings are Yours, and all sovereignty, You have no partner. )

I followed along, but my voice felt stuck. My chest felt tight. I was not expecting to feel that emotional, especially in such a simple place like an airplane seat.

At that moment, it really hit me. This was not just a trip from Amsterdam to Saudi Arabia. I was being invited.

I just sat there, repeating the words, trying to hold my tears, and at the same time not wanting to stop them.

That was the moment everything shifted for me.

Arrival in Jeddah and Journey to Mecca

Immigration turned out to be very different from what I had imagined.

I was honestly a bit nervous before arriving in Saudi Arabia. I had heard many stories about strict rules, and I think I was just overthinking. On my passport photo, I am not wearing a hijab, while at that moment I was, so I was unsure how that would be received. Because of that, I prepared myself mentally for a more serious immigration experience.

But then something unexpected happened.

The officer who handled my passport spoke Bahasa Indonesia. Not just a few words, but really fluent. She looked at me, smiled, and even laughed a little when she saw my confused face. Even though she was wearing a burqa and I could not see her full face, I could feel her kindness through her eyes and the way she spoke.

She guided me through the fingerprint process calmly, step by step. That small moment changed everything for me. The tension I carried since the flight slowly disappeared. I felt more at ease, almost like being welcomed instead of being processed. Alhamdulillah.

From Jeddah, we continued our journey by bus to Mecca, around 1.5 hours. By that time, I was already tired from the long flight, but there was also a quiet excitement building inside me. I kept thinking, “I’m getting closer.”

One practical thing I learned from this part of the trip is about packing. If you are flying for Umrah, it really helps to keep your essentials in your hand carry. I had an allowance of 8 kg, and I used it carefully.

Inside my cabin bag, I packed 6 abayas, 6 instant hijabs, underwear for 10 days, 4 leggings, and 10 pairs of socks. It sounds like a lot, but everything was chosen with intention. After a long journey like this, having your own clean and ready clothes within reach makes a big difference, especially when your schedule continues immediately after arrival.

Experiencing Umrah in Mecca

When we arrived in Mecca, everything moved very quickly. There was no pause, no time to rest after the long journey from Amsterdam.

We went straight for Fajr prayer. I still remember how my body felt bit tired at that moment. My eyes were heavy, my head felt a bit light, but at the same time I knew I was already in Mecca. That feeling alone gave me enough energy to keep going.

After Fajr, we had breakfast, simple but enough to recharge. Not long after that, we continued directly with Umrah. Looking back, the schedule was tight, but I actually liked it. It did not give me time to overthink or feel too tired. I just followed the flow.

It was Friday morning. That realization stayed in my mind the whole time. A blessed day, in a blessed place.

When I first saw the Kaaba, it was not how I expected it to be. I thought I would stay calm and just feel amazed.

But the moment Mustafa, our group leader, pointed from a distance and said, “That is the Kaaba,” everything changed in seconds.

At first, I could only see a small black point far away. I was still trying to process it, telling myself, “Is that really it?” But as we kept walking, that small black point slowly became clearer, bigger, and closer, until it was right in front of me.

And suddenly, I just could not stop crying.

It was not something I planned. It just happened. Tears came immediately, without control. I was still walking, still following the group, but inside I felt completely overwhelmed, trying to understand what I was actually seeing in front of me.

What it actually feels like

It is crowded, really crowded. We are constantly surrounded by people from every direction. Sometimes we walk smoothly, sometimes we slow down, sometimes we are carried by the flow of people. Mustafa, our group leader kept giving his directions as clearly as possible through a small radio, which we could hear through our earphones.

It is physically demanding. I think Tawaf requires a lot of energy, especially if you are not used to walking long distances. Tawaf is the act of walking seven times around the Kaaba in a circular movement, following the flow of thousands of other pilgrims. It sounds simple, but in reality it takes focus, patience, and physical strength.

After that, we continue with Sa’i, which is walking back and forth seven times between Safa and Marwa. This part is also not as easy as it sounds, especially after Tawaf. Our legs can start to feel tired, especially if you are not used to walking long distances, steps become heavier, but everybody just keep going.

The weather in Mecca was great, with sunshine and a maximum temperature of only 30°C, so it didn’t feel too warm. And what stayed with me the most was not the physical effort. It was the emotional side.

During Tawaf and Sa’i, I could not stop my tears. Not loud, not dramatic, just quietly flowing. I did not even fully understand why. It was not sadness. It felt more like being completely aware that I was there, in that moment, surrounded by people from all over the world, all doing the same thing, all coming with their own stories.

And somehow, in the middle of all that crowd, I felt protected. Everything went smoothly for me, step by step, without confusion, without panic. Even now, when I write this, I still feel that moment. Alhamdulillah.

Practical Tips From My Experience

Clothing matters more than you think

• Choose an abaya that is not too long
• Avoid anything that can be stepped on
• Wear a stable hijab that does not slip

Footwear decisions

• Use easy slip-on sandals
• Avoid complicated straps
• Prepare for a lot of walking

Small but important detail

• Socks are useful, especially longer ones. I wear my husband’s socks, which are too long for me.
• Sports bra gives better comfort during long movement
• Wear an abaya with an inner lining so that I don’t feel the need to wear leggings underneath.

You can prepare your Umrah essentials such as comfortable sandals, abayas, or travel organizers from trusted stores that ship within Europe, so everything arrives on time before departure.

A Personal Moment: Badal Umrah for My Father

On February 12th, after Dhuhr prayer, I performed Badal Umrah for my father.

Actually, the Umrah package I joined only included one Umrah. Since I already had the intention to do Badal Umrah for my father, I had started to look for alternatives by myself. I even tried to find out where the bus station was, thinking I might need to go out and return to the miqat point on my own to start a new Umrah.

I was already preparing myself for that effort.

But Allah made it much easier, and more beautiful than I expected.

In our group WhatsApp, Mustafa, our leader, suddenly shared a message. He said they wanted to give us a compliment, a second Umrah together as a group. All of us.

I still remember reading that message and feeling so relieved and grateful at the same time. It felt like my intention had been heard, even before I needed to struggle for it.

Alhamdulillah.

The entire process of the Badal Umrah went smoothly and peacefully. Unfortunately, I was unable to see my father once he passed away because I live in the Netherlands. But in that moment, I truly hoped that somehow he could see me, and that this act could reach him. Insha’Allah.

Moving to Medina: A Different Atmosphere

On February 13th, we traveled by bus for about 6 hours from Mecca to Medina.

It felt heavier than I expected to leave Mecca and the Kaaba behind. I was not ready, honestly. But at the same time, I had heard that Medina is also a very beautiful and peaceful place, so I tried to shift my mindset and just follow the journey.

We left after Zuhr prayer and continued by bus. Along the way, we made a stop for Maghrib prayer and dinner. The place was called Al Hmanah, and if I am not mistaken, the area might be Wadi Al Fara, although I am not completely sure. What I clearly remember is the weather. It felt much fresher there, with a noticeable cold wind, very different from Mecca.

That stop gave us a moment to pause, stretch, and breathe before continuing the trip.

By the time we continued the journey, the temperature became cooler, especially at night.

My tip if you plan to take a bus to Medina

Prepare some snacks and drinks with you. The trip is quite long, and even though there is a stop, having something ready in your bag makes you feel much more comfortable along the way.

What feels different in Medina

• Slower pace
• More peaceful
• Less pressure compared to Mecca

You will need an extra layer at night, not a heavy jacket, but something warm enough.

Discovering Medina’s Serenity

We finally arrived in Medina around 9:00 pm.

Right away, I could feel that Medina was different from Mecca. The atmosphere felt calmer, softer, less intense. After the crowded and fast-paced experience in Mecca, this change was very noticeable for me.

Medina is also the city of Prophet Muhammad, where he lived, built the first Muslim community, and where his mosque and resting place are located. Knowing that made the experience feel even more special, but in a quiet and peaceful way, not overwhelming like Mecca.

At night, the temperature dropped quite a bit. You do not need a heavy jacket, but I would really recommend bringing an extra layer to wear over your abaya. It makes a big difference when you walk outside or go for prayer.

What I remember most is the feeling of space and calm. In Mecca, everything feels full and moving all the time. In Medina, it feels like things slow down a little. People still come and go, but not in the same rush. It gave me more time to just sit, breathe, and reflect quietly.

During my visit, I also noticed something small but interesting. Many women in Medina were wearing more colorful abayas compared to Mecca. You could see more variation in style and color.

But for myself, I still chose to wear a simple, plain abaya. It might not stand out, but that was exactly my intention. In places like this, I personally feel more comfortable blending in and focusing on the purpose of being there, rather than how I look.

Returning Home: February 17th

On February 17th, our journey came to an end.

We had to leave the hotel very early, at 01:20 in the morning, to catch our flight from Medina to Cairo and then continue to Amsterdam at 05:20. Everything felt quiet at that hour. Still dark, still a bit cold, and honestly, I was still half tired.

But inside, I knew this was the moment to go home.

It felt heavy to leave. Not in a dramatic way, just a quiet feeling. Like you know something important has ended. I was not ready, but at the same time, I really missed my husband and my sons. That feeling stayed with me during the whole journey back.

During the trip home, I kept thinking about everything that had just happened. From the moment I booked the trip, to seeing the Kaaba for the first time, to all the small moments that I did not expect but will stay with me.

I do not feel like I came back as a completely different person. But I do feel calmer. More aware. And somehow more content with what I have.

I hope one day I can come back again, for Umrah or maybe Hajj.

Bismillahirohmanirohim.

Who This Is For

This type of Umrah journey is especially relevant if:

1. You are an Indonesian / foreigners living in Europe and unsure about visa timing
2. You need to plan around children’s school schedules
3. You prefer group travel for structure and guidance
4. You are doing Umrah for someone else (Badal Umrah)
5. You feel anxious about traveling to Saudi Arabia for the first time
6. You want a short but meaningful spiritual trip
7. You are balancing family life and personal spiritual goals

Problems, Mistakes, and What Can Go Wrong

Common mistakes

• Wearing abaya that is too long
• Choosing uncomfortable footwear
• Packing too much in checked luggage instead of hand carry
• Not preparing physically for long walking hours

Things to be aware of

• Tight schedule, especially on arrival
• Emotional overload during rituals
• Crowds can be overwhelming

Who might struggle

• People who expect a relaxed travel experience
• Those not comfortable with physical activity
• Travelers who prefer full control instead of group structure

Which Umrah Option Fits You

Group Umrah (like mine)

Best for first-time pilgrims

• Structured
• Guided rituals
• Less stress

Budget Alternative

Self-arranged Umrah

• More flexible
• Potentially cheaper
• Requires more preparation and responsibility

Premium Upgrade

Comfort or VIP packages

• Better hotels closer to Haram
• Can have more rest time
• Higher cost, but less physical strain

From My Own Experience

What to Wear

For men, Ihram is very specific, two simple white cloths, one wrapped around the waist and one over the upper body.

For women, there is more flexibility, but comfort and modesty are everything. I personally wore abayas that were not too long, because I saw how risky it can be when people step on each other’s clothes during Tawaf.

Also, choose a hijab that stays in place. You will move a lot, and adjusting your hijab all the time can be very tiring.

What to Pack (Based on What I Actually Brought)

Try not to overpack, but also do not underestimate what you need.

In my hand carry (8 kg), I managed to bring:

• 6 abayas
• 6 instant hijabs
• underwear for 10 days
• 4 leggings
• 10 pairs of socks

It sounds like a lot, but everything had a purpose. After long hours and crowded rituals, having clean and ready clothes makes you feel much better.

Also, keep your essentials in your cabin bag, not in checked luggage. You might need them immediately after arrival.

What It Really Feels Like (Expectation vs Reality)

Be prepared to walk a lot. Not just a little tired, but really tired.

Tawaf alone takes energy, especially with the crowd. Then you continue with Sa’i, walking back and forth between Safa and Marwa seven times. Your body will feel it, especially if you did not rest properly after your flight.

And yes, it is crowded. Sometimes you walk easily, sometimes you slow down, sometimes you are just carried by the flow of people.

For me, following our group leader through the earphone helped a lot. Without that, I might have felt lost.

Cultural and Religious Etiquette (What I Noticed Directly)

Respect is very important, not just in how you dress, but how you behave.

Keep your voice low, stay calm, and be patient. Everyone is there for the same purpose, but everyone also moves differently.

I also realized that blending in feels more comfortable than standing out. That is why I chose simple clothing, even when others wore more colorful outfits.

Health and Safety (Small Things That Matter)

• Drink enough water, even if you are not feeling thirsty
• Wear comfortable footwear, this is very important
• Keep your belongings close to you at all times

You do not need to be overly worried, but you do need to stay aware.

Money and Practical Spending

Bring some cash in Saudi Riyal for small expenses. Not everything is convenient with cards, especially for quick purchases or small shops.

Plan your spending, but also keep it simple. You do not need to buy many things during Umrah.

Emotional and Mental Preparation (The Most Important One)

This is something I did not fully understand before going.

You can prepare your clothes, your bag, your documents. But emotionally, it is different.

There will be moments where you feel overwhelmed, tired, or even confused. And there will also be moments that feel very calm and meaningful.

Just accept everything as part of the journey. You do not need to do everything perfectly.

For me, that mindset helped the most.

Collaboration Note: This article does not use traditional cookie based affiliate links. Twinkle So Bright works through transparent paid collaborations, such as sponsored stories or natural link placements that align with the content. If you are interested in collaborating on this specific article, feel free to contact me to discuss availability and rates.

FAQ

1. Can Indonesians / foreigners living in the Netherlands easily get an Umrah visa?

Yes, especially through travel agencies that handle the process. Timing is important, but fast processing is possible.

2. Do I need to prepare Ihram before arriving in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, especially if your flight crosses Miqat. You may need to change during transit.

3. Is Umrah physically demanding?

Yes, expect long walking hours during Tawaf and Sa’i.

4. Is it safe for women traveling alone or in groups?

From my experience, yes. I felt safe, especially within a group.

5. What is the biggest challenge during Umrah?

Managing energy and emotion levels while staying focused during rituals.

6. How many days are enough?

Around 8 to 10 days is common for a combined Mecca and Medina trip.

7. Should I memorize all duas?

Not necessary. You can follow your group leader if needed.

How To Prepare for Umrah from the Netherlands (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Choose your travel date carefully

Align it with family responsibilities and important events

Step 2: Book through a reliable agency

Check visa processing time and included services

Step 3: Prepare documents early

Passport, visa, and travel confirmations

Step 4: Learn the rituals

Watch videos and understand the sequence

Step 5: Pack smart

Focus on comfort, not quantity

Step 6: Prepare physically

You will walk a lot, so basic stamina helps

Step 7: Prepare mentally

Stay flexible and accept imperfections

Final Note

This journey was one of the most meaningful experiences in my life. Not perfect, not easy, but very real.

If you are considering Umrah from the Netherlands as an Indonesian or foreigners, I hope this helps you make a clear and confident decision.

For collaborations on this article, feel free to contact me.

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