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Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Hajj Visas

Hajj visas are free and are issued from Mid-Shawwal until 25th Dhual-Qa'dah of each year.

Hajj visa is for Jeddah, Makkah and Madinah.

Hajj visas are not valid for work or residency.

Hajj visas are not issued to individuals. Each applicant for a Hajj visa must apply through a licensed travel agency, which must present the Consulate with copies of "Accommodation Contacts" and a letter from the Ministry of Hajj in Saudi Arabia confirming that the travel agency has duly completed all requirements to qualify to assist pilgrims.
Documents required for Hajj visa

The applicant must have a passport with a validity of at least six (6) months and acceptable both for entry to Saudi Arabia and entry to the next destination; the passport should have at least two empty visa pages adjacent to each other.

Each applicant must submit one recent passport size color photograph with a white background. The photograph must be a full-face view in which the visa applicant is facing the camera directly. Side or angled views are NOT accepted. (Some travel agents require two color photos, one for the visa application and the other for the group identification card).

The applicant must submit a completed application form filled in by pen using black ink or printed; the form must be signed and stamped by the authorized travel agency.

The Mahram (the male relative) should write his complete information on the application forms of his spouse and children or any relative with whom he is traveling. He should also provide copies of marriage or birth certificates; if these documents were issued outside the country he is applying from, he should then provide copies translated and notarized by a certified translation office.

All women are required to travel for Hajj with a Mahram. Proof of kinship must be submitted with the application form. Any woman over the age of 45 may travel without a Mahram with an organized group, provided she submits a letter of no objection from her husband, son or brother, authorizing her to travel for Hajj with the named group. This letter should be notarized.

The applicant must be in possession of a non-refundable roundtrip ticket with confirmed reservations.

The applicant must submit proof of vaccination for meningitis and ACYW135. For infants and children up to 15 years of age, a vaccination report is required for polio, as well as meningitis. Children over 15 years of age should present the same vaccinations requested for adults. The certificate of vaccination should have been issued not more than three years and not less than 10 days prior to entering Saudi Arabia.

Each pilgrim should submit two certified checks or cashier checks payable to 'Unified Agents Office' in Jeddah for pilgrimage services (guides, Zamzam water agents, accommodation in Mina and Arafat and transportation costs). These checks should include the name and the passport number of the pilgrim and date and place of issue. Each applicant must pay the appropriate fees. Pilgrims have the option to submit one check combining both fees. Children between the ages of seven and fifteen should only pay half of the amount. Children under the age of seven do not need to pay.

Please check with the Saudi Consulate for current fees.
Applicants who are not nationals of the country they are applying from should submit documented proof of legal residence status. Passport authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia reserve the right to return (at his or her own expense) any pilgrim who has provided wrong or false information about their residence.
No applicant under the legal age of eighteen will be granted a Hajj visa if not accompanied by his family.
If the applicant has converted to Islam, an Islamic certificate must be presented; this needs to be notarized by an Islamic Center.
General Guidelines:

Travelers must carry vaccination certificates with them for inspection by the Saudi Authority at port of entry.

No food products are allowed into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The last day to enter the King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah for the purpose of Hajj is 4 Dhu'l-Hijjah of each year.

Upon arrival, pilgrims shall hand their passports to the custody of the Unified Agents Office representatives to enable the latter to complete all travel formalities to Makkah and Madinah.

In the event that pilgrims lose their passport, they should immediately report the loss to the same office appointed to take care of them during Hajj. Applicants must obtain a report from the the Unified Agents Office in which the loss of passport is mentioned.

All pilgrims must leave the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia after Hajj no later than the 10th of Muharram of each year. The rules and regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia forbid any pilgrims from staying in the country after the completion of Hajj.

General guidelines for travel agencies:

Travel agents must provide the consulate with Residence, Tawafa, and transportation contracts. They also must provide the unified contract that verifies the general services provided to pilgrims. This contact must include the name of the organizer, the code given to him by the Ministry of Hajj, and the number of visas he's allowed to get. He also must provide the consulate with a letter from the Ministry of Hajj's office in Makkah. All these documents should arrive at the consulate before hajj visas are issued.

Passports will be returned if the information submitted is not compatible with the information sent electronically by the Ministry of Hajj. The Embassy reserves the right to inform the Ministry of Hajj about travel agencies that submit inaccurate or incomplete information.

Travel agencies should affix on each passport a sticker showing the agency's name, address and telephone number.

In the case that a travel agency wishes to submit any question or complaints to the Ministry of Hajj, they could do so through the company or agency they deal with in Saudi Arabia or through the official routes in their country.

Notes:

Visitors should not overstay the time granted on the visa.

Visitors to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia must abide by the country's Islamic laws and regulations and respect its society's values and traditions.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's laws against drug trafficking are strictly enforced.

Violators are subject to severe punishment, which may include the death penalty.

Sectarian, political or religious gatherings are forbidden.

Hajj Locations Distances

Approximate distances between main locations of Hajj


Makkah to Mina: 8 kilometers (5 miles)
Mina to Arafat: 14.4 kilometers (9 miles)
Mina to Muzdaliah: 3 kilometers (1.8 miles)
Makkah to Arafat: 22.4 kilometers (14 miles)

Hajj Safety Instructions for Pilgrims

Hajj General Safety Instructions for Pilgrims
(M/O KSA)

For your own safety and that of others, please observe the following instructions when proceeding to the casting of the Jamarat:

1. Adherence to the schedules designated for you by the Mutawwif.
2. Adherence to the lanes designated for proceeding to the Jamarat and returning therefrom.
3. Avoid pushing your fellow pilgrims and proceed quietly and calmly.
4. Do not carry personal effects.
5. Do not walk against the direction of the traffic.

Hajj Hospitals in Makkah & Madinah for Pilgrims in Saudia

The Ministry of Health has established 21 hospitals with 7,000-bed capacity to serve and provide health care to pilgrims.

There are hospitals, ambulances and other centers specializing in the treatment of sunstrokes and heat exhaustion in Makkah Al-Mukarramah, Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah and the Holy Shrines. Makkah Al-Mukarramah has seven hospitals with a total capacity of 3,173 beds.

There are several hospitals in the Holy Shrines containing specialized outpatient clinics, ambulance units and operations and admittance rooms in addition to special arrangements for treating sunstroke and heat exhaustion.

These hospitals include:

1- The 800-bed Arafat General Hospital, 24 beds for sunstroke patients, 130 beds for heat exhaustion patients.
2- The 30-bed Jabal Al Rahmah Hospital, 4 beds for sunstroke patients, 150 beds for heat exhaustion patients.
3- Arafat's Mobile Hospital (100) beds at the heat exhaustion center, 8 cooling units, 50 beds for admittance.
4- Mina General Hospital (350 beds).
5- King Abdul Aziz Bridge Hospital in Mina (120 beds).
6- The 370- beds Namera Hospital, 8 beds for sunstroke and 71 beds for heat exhaustion.
7- The 130-beds Mina Al Wadi Hospital, 10 beds for Intensive Care Unit.

The following hospitals serve pilgrims in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah:

1- King Fahd Hospital (500 beds).
2- The Obstetrics and Paediatrics Hospital (500 beds).
3- Badr Charitable Hospital (216 beds).
4- Chest Diseases Hospital (120 beds).
5- Isolation Hospital (57 beds).
6- Common Diseases Hospital (200 beds).
7- Al Ansar Hospital (130 beds).
8- Al-Migat Hospital (120 beds).
9- Ohud Hospital (239 beds).
10- Madinatul Hujjaj Hospital (36 beds)
11- Al-Hanakiyah Hospital (68 beds).
12- Khaiber General Hospital (50beds).

Hajj Health Centers in Holy Cities KSA

There are numerous health centers in the Two Holy Cities and the Holy Shrines. Some of these centers offer their medical services throughout the year whereas others operate only during Hajj seasons. All these centers receive and treat patients.
There are 294 centers, including:

42 Primary Health Care Centers in Arafat.

30 Primary Health Care Centers in Mina.

7 Primary health Care Centers in Muzdalifah. Each of these centers contains 16 beds for receiving heat exhaustion cases.

27 Permanent Primary health Care Centers in Makkah Al-Mukarramah.

45 Seasonal Primary Health Care Centers at the inlets of the Holy Capital, the Al-Hijrah Road and Land Pilgrims parking areas.

38 Supporting Health Units in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah devoted to the pilgrims, five of which are inside the Prophet's Mosque.

133 Health Centers in various parts of Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah and land routes leading to it.

5 Primary Health Care Centers inside the Holy Mosque.
84 Seasonal Primary Health Care Centers in Makkah Al-Mukarramah, five of which are surrounding the Al Jamarat flyover bridge.

Hajj Accommodation

There are different types of accommodations in Makkah and Madinah, from luxurious four star hotels to apartments and rooms to hire and share. The licensed travel agency usually organizes accommodation for visitors.
Accommodation in Mina and Arafat will be tents set up by the Tawafa Establishments. The costs for these tents are included in the checks sent with the application form for Hajj visa.

Ihram FAQs

Q: What is an Ihram and how should I wear it?
A: The Ihram garments for men consists of two pieces of white sheet. Wrap the larger sheet around your waist to cover your body from the navel to the ankles. Secure the Ihram either with a belt or by a strip of fabric torn from Ihram material. Drape the other sheet over the back and shoulders and wear a pair of stitched or unstitched sandals or shoes which do not cover the ankles. The head should not be covered, and no underwear should be used. The Ihram should preferably be white.

Q: Should women wear the Ihram?
A: Women are allowed to make Ihram in any dress they wish which fulfills the Islamic conditions of public dress, regardless of the color. Women's hands and face should be uncovered in Ihram. Their heads should be covered.

Q: Are there things I should and shouldn't be doing while I am in a state of Ihram?
A: Yes, a Muhrim (someone who is in state of Ihram) must observe certain obligations and prohibitions.

These are:
* Keep your head uncovered at all times. Women should keep their heads covered
* Do not shave, cut your hair, clip your nails, use perfume, or wear sewn clothes of any kind
* Do not perform marriage or get married yourself
* Do not kill an animal of any kind for any reason, unless it poses a danger to you and to the others.
* Do not enter into conjugal relations with your spouse. Avoid suggestive and provocative talk or gestures and remain focused on Hajj

Hajj Travel Items recommendations

Hajj Travel Items recommendations
(Recommendation of Ministry of Hajj KSA)

Many of the following items are available in Saudi Arabia, but in order to save time searching for them, it is advisable that you should bring them with you.

Documents
* Notarized copies of your passport, in case your passport is lost
* Pilgrims arrival photo
*ID Card, issued upon arrival to Jeddah. You should carry this ID Card at all times

Ten passport size photographs for use by authorities for various ID cards and other documents and procedures
* Vaccination Record Book
* Names and addresses of hotels you are staying in in Makkah and Madinah. If you are lost, you can call them or get directions
* Plastic bracelet with the name, address and telephone number of your Tawafa Establishment printed on it. Make sure you carry this bracelet at all times. In case you are lost or have an accident, this bracelet will let you get to the right people.

Money
Take a sufficient amount of currency to cover expenses. Have most of money in the form of travelers' checks and a small amount of Saudi riyals.

Medication
Have a small first aid kit with you, containing adhesive dressings, some insect repellent, antiseptic creams and water sterilization tablets.

If you live in the West and are not used to high temperatures, take plenty of salt tablets and start taking them as soon as you arrive in Jeddah. If you cannot get these tablets, two tea spoonfuls of common salt is adequate per day. This will prevent you from losing too much salt through your sweat (loss of salt can make you feel very weak).

Take something to soothe your throat since sore throats are common.

Take something to help you if you develop a cough, constipation or diarrhea.

If you suffer from any ailment such as a heart or chest condition or diabetes, tell your doctor or specialist that you are planning to undertake the Hajj journey and ask their advice on how to reduce your chances of becoming ill. Also ask them for a report to carry with you, with a list of your usual medications. Make sure you take with you enough medication to last the duration of your journey.

Luggage
Sturdy, hard*cased luggage with heavy duty wheels. A waist pouch to keep and carry valuables at all times. Good quality light backpack for carrying personal stuff during Hajj.

Clothing and bedding
* Two or three sets of Ihram: The Ihram consists of two pieces of white, plain cloth, either 100% cotton or light terry*cloth. These are cool to wear and also provide for better absorption of the heavy perspiration you will inevitably experience during Hajj.
* Light and airy clothes for street wear. Take enough clothes to make your stay comfortable, but do not over*burden yourself with unnecessary clothes. Professional laundry facilities are available in Saudi Arabia. If going on Hajj during winter months, take some woolen clothing as the early mornings tend to be cool.
* Three or four pairs of rubber slippers for use during Ihram. Couple of pairs of comfortable shoes or sandals.
* Two large and two small towels
* Sleeping bag for bedding, inflatable pillow and thick sheets

Toiletries
Tooth brush, toothpaste, moisturizing and disinfecting hand soap, bath soap, shampoo, disposable razors, shaving cream, small mirror, comb, nail clippers and disinfectant, deodorant, tissues and toilet paper.

Miscellaneous items
* Bottled water to avoid dehydration
* Folding umbrella to protect from sun
* A prayer rug
* Copy of the Holy Qur'an and books that give you authentic and detailed information about the rites of Hajj. DO NOT take audio or video tapes as the authorities will review them at the airport and that will cause delay.
* Pen, pencil, small notebook
* Mobile phones to keep in touch with your group and also to phone home. SIM cards only valid for a month are available over the counter in most phone shops in Makkah and Madinah. Before leaving, make sure your phone can accept any SIM card, as opposed to being tied to a network.
* Multi*blade pocket knife, can opener, small scissors
* Small flashlight, with extra batteries
* Small bottle of dish washing liquid and laundry detergent

Prominent features of the Pakistan Hajj Policy 2011

Prominent features of the Pakistan Hajj Policy 2011
(Ministry of Religious Affairs, Islamabad, Pakistan)


Pakistani Hujjaj quota has been increased from 159,647 to 179,256.


Hajj scheme 2011 shall be implemented through Government Hajj Scheme and Private sector i.e. Hajj Group Organizers (HGOs) with proportionate share of around 50:50.


There shall be no balloting this year under Government Hajj Scheme and applicants will be considered successful on the principle of “first come first serve”.


The applications under Government scheme will be invited from 15th April to 10th May 2011 through designated banks.


Under the Government Hajj Scheme, there will be two categories of accommodation i.e. Green Category within 2000 meters without transport with a rental ceiling of Saudi Rayal (SR) 4000/- per pilgrim and White Category beyond 2000 meters with transport with a rental ceiling of SR.3600/- per pilgrim.


The rent in Makkah Mukarramah will be charged on actual basis from pilgrims and at Madinah Munwwarah at a flat rate of SR.450/- per pilgrim.


PIA has agreed for airfare @ Rs. 72,000/- for south zone and Rs. 84,000/- for north zone.


Hajj dues of White category will be Rs. 200,847 for south zone and Rs. 212,847 for north zone.


Hajj dues of Green category will be Rs. 210,047 for south zone and Rs. 222,047 for north zone.


Hujjaj will be airlifted by the national airlines of both countries in equal share, in pursuance of the revised Air Service Agreement (ASA) between Government of Pakistan and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.


15% of the total seats under Government scheme will be reserved for hardship cases, pilgrims recommended and funded by charitable institutions and Labour/low paid Employees of different organizations/corporate entities under corporate social responsibility etc. Balance number of seats, if any, will be allocated to late comers at an enhanced package @ 5% of the Green category to fill the resource gap for welfare activities.


A broad based Accommodation Hiring Committee comprising five members will hire the accommodation in Makkah Mukarramah and Madinah Munawwarah.


Hujjaj under Government scheme will not be required to pay any amount on account of Personal Exchange Quota (PEQ) and same will be arranged by them from open market through banks or foreign exchange companies.


There shall be no fresh enrolment of HGOs in the year 2011. HGOs already enrolled with MORA in the year 2010 shall continue in 2011 with the same quota.


HGOs will offer only two packages i.e. economy and executive.


For the welfare services, Medical Hajj Mission will be increased from 260 (2010) to 540 (2011), 230 Khuddam ul Hujjaj to be drawn from Armed Forces, Civil Armed Forces & Pakistan Boys Scouts and number of Local Khuddam ul Hujjaj to be increased from 250 (2010) to 900 (2011) subject to availability of resources.


A comprehensive awareness campaign and training to the intending pilgrims will be launched.


Hujjaj Mohafiz Scheme based on the concept of “Takaful” will be launched with the contribution of Rs.400/- non-refundable by each Haji for compensation due to death / accident during Hajj.


There will be a committee of Parliamentarians called “Hajj Advisory Committee” to advise on policy, planning and management of Hajj operation 2011 in Pakistan as well as in KSA.


Any person who has performed Hajj during the last five years will not be eligible except Mehram, Group Leader or undertaking Haj-e-badal.


International Machine Readable Passport, Computerized National Identity Card and medical certificate shall be mandatory.


All pilgrims (Male/Female) to affix a Pakistan flag sticker on their “Ahrams” for identification. Every female pilgrim to carry at least two “Abayas” preferably of black colour.


Pilgrims to ensure that their luggage is labeled bearing Name, Nationality, Passport Number, Air Carrier, Building and Flight Numbers.


Monitoring and supervision mechanism for Hajj operation in Pakistan and KSA shall be strengthened.

Friday, September 16, 2011

Arabic to English Cardinal Numbers

Arabic Cardinal Numbers
First
Awwal
Oula
Second
Thani
Thania
Third
Thaleth
Thaletha
Fourth
Rabe’
Rabe’a
Fifth
Khaames
Khaamesa
Sixth
Sadis
Sadisa
Seventh
Sabe’
Sabe’a
Eighth
Thamen
Thamena
Ninth
Tase’
Tase’a
Tenth
acher
achera
Eleventh
Hady achar
Hadiata achar
Twelfth
Thani achar
Thania achar

Common Arabic to English Phrases

How to Introduce Yourself
 
Do you speak (English/ Arabic)?Hal tatakallamu alloghah alenjleziah/ alarabiah?
هل تتكلم اللغة الإنجليزية /العربية؟
Just a little.Qaleelan!   قليلا!
What's your name?Ma esmouk? Ma esmouki?   ما إسمك؟
My name is ...Esmee…   إسمي....
Mr.../ Mrs.…/ Miss…Assayed…/ Assayeda…/ Al anesah ...   السيد... /السيدة/ الانسة...
Nice to meet you!Motasharefon/ motasharefatun (f) bema'refatek
متشرف / متشرفة بمعرفتك
You're very kind!Anta lateef/ Anti lateefa   أنت لطيف! أنتِ لطيفة!
Where are you from?Men ayna anta/ anti (female)?   من أين أنت؟
I'm from (the U.S/ Morocco)Ana men (amreeka/ almaghrib)   أنا من (أمريكا/ المغرب)
I'm (American)Ana (amreeki/ amrekiah (female)   أنا أمريكي/أمريكية
Where do you live?Ayna taskun?/ Ayna taskuneen? (female)   أين تسكن؟ أين تسكنين؟
I live in (the U.S/ France)A'eesho fel welayat almotaheda/ faransa
أعيش في الولايات المتحدة/ فرنسا
Did you like it here?Hal istamta'ta bewaqtika/ bewaqtiki (f) huna?   هل استمتعت بوقتك هنا؟
Morocco is a wonderful countryAl maghrib baladun jameel!   المغرب بلد جميل!
What do you do for a living?Ma mehnatuk? Mehnatuki (female)   ما مهنتك؟
I work as a (translator/ businessman)A'mal ka(motarjim/ rajul a'maal)   أعمل كمترجم/ كرجل أعمال
I like ArabicOhibbu allughah al arabia   أحب اللغة العربية
I've been learning Arabic for 1 monthadrusu allughah al arabia mundu shahr   أدرس اللغة العربية منذ شهر
Oh! That's good!Hada shay'un Jameel   هذا شيء جميل
How old are you?Kam howa umruk? umroki (female)   كم هو عمرك؟
I'm (twenty, thirty...) years old.Umri ( 'eshreen/ thalatheen) sanah (th as in bath)
عمري (عشرين/ ثلاثين) سنة
I have to goYajebu an athhaba al aan! (th as in that)   يجب أن اذهب الآن
I will be right back!Sa arje’o halan   سأرجع حالا
Wish Someone Something
Good luck!Bettawfeeq   بالتوفيق!
Happy birthday!Eid meelad sa'eed!   عيد ميلاد سعيد
Happy new year!Sana sa'eedah!   سنة سعيدة
Merry Christmas!A'yaad meelad Saeedah   أعياد ميلاد سعيد!
Happy EidEid mobarak!   عيد مبارك!
Happy RamadanRamadan mobarak!   رمضان مبارك
Congratulations!Mabrook!   مبروك!
Enjoy! (for meals...)Shahia tayebah!   شهية طيبة
I'd like to visit Iraq one dayArghabu bezeyarat al iraq.   أرغب بزيارة العراق
Say hi to John for meSallem ‘ala John men ajlee   سلِّم على (جون) من أجلي
Bless you (when sneezing)Rahimaka Allah   رحمك الله
Good night and sweet dreams!Laila sa'eda wa ahlaam ladida   ليلة سعيدة و أحلام لذيذة!
Solving a Misunderstanding
I'm Sorry! (if you don't hear something)‘Afwan!   !عفوا
Sorry (for a mistake)Aasef!   !أسف
No Problem!La moshkelah   لامشكلة
Can You Say It Again?A’ed men fadlek!/ A’eedi men fadleki (fem)   أعد من فضلك
Can You Speak Slowly?Takalam bebot’ men fadlek/ fadleki (fem)   تكلم ببطء من فضلك
Write It Down Please!Oktobha men fadlek/ Oktobiha men fadleki (fem)
أكتبها من فضلك! / أكتبيها من فضلك!
I Don't Understand!La afham!   !لا أفهم
I Don't Know!La a’ref!   !لآ أعرف
I Have No Idea.La adri!   لاأدري
What's That Called In Arabic?Ma esmoho bel arabiah?   ما أسمه بالعربية؟
What Does "gato" Mean In English?Mada ta'ni kalemat "qit" bel inglizia?   ماذا تعني كلمة "قط" بالانجليزية؟
How Do You Say "Please" In Arabic?Kaifa taqoulu kalimat "please" bel arabia?   كيف تقول كلمة "بليز" بالعربية؟
What Is This?Ma hatha (th as in that)   ما هذا؟
My Arabic is bad.Lughati al arabic laisat kama yajib   لغتي العربية ليست كما يجب
I need to practice my ArabicAhtaaju an atadarraba 'ala al arabia!   احتاج ان اتدرب على العربية
Don't worry!La taqlaq! La taqlaqi (fem)   !لاتقلق/ لا تقلقي
Arabic Expressions and Words
Good/ Bad/ So-So.Jayed/ saye'/ 'adee   جيد / سيء / عادي
Big/ SmallKabeer/ Sagheer   كبير / صغير
Today/ NowAlyawm/ Al aan   اليوم / الآن
Tomorrow/ YesterdayGhadan/ Albareha   غدا / البارحة غدا / البارحة
Yes/ NoNa’am/ Laa   نعم / لا
Here you go! (when giving something)Khod!   !خد
Do you like it?Hal a’jabak? Hal a’jabaki? (female)   هل أعجبك؟
I really like it!A’jabani haqqan!   أعجبني حقا
I'm hungry/ thirsty.Ana jae’/ ana ‘atshaan   أنا جائع/ أنا عطشان
In The Morning/ Evening/ At Night.Sabahan/ masa’an/ laylan   صباحا/ مساءا/ ليلا
This/ That. Here/ThereHatha/ thalek. Huna/ hunaak (th as in that)   هذا /ذلك. هنا/هناك
Me/ You. Him/ Her.Ana/ anta/ anti (you female). Houwa/ Hiya   أنا/ أنت. هو/ هي
Really!Haqqan   !حقا
Look!Onzor / Onzori (female)   !أنظر! أنظري
Hurry up!Asre'/ Asre'ee (female)   !أسرع! أسرعي
What? Where?Matha? Ayn? (th as in that)   ماذا؟ أين؟ ماذا؟ أين؟
What time is it?kam essa'a?   كم الساعة؟
It's 10 o'clock. 07:30pm.Enaha al 'ashera. Ennaha assaabe'a wa nesf.
إنها العاشرة. إنها السابعة و النصف مساءا
Give me this!A'teni hatheh! (th as in that)   !أعطني هذه
I love you!Uhibbok/ uhibboki (female)   أحبك
I feel sick.ana mareed.   .أنا مريض
I need a doctorahtaju tabeeban!   !أحتاج طبيبا
One, Two, Threewahed, ithnaan, thalatha (th as in think).   واحد, إثنان, ثلاثة
Four, Five, Sixarba'a, khamsa, sitta   أربعة, خمسة, ستة
Seven, Eight, Nine, Tensab'a, thamania (th as in think), tis'a, 'ashara.
سبعة, ثمانية, تسعة, عشرة

Common English to Arabic Phrases

English PhrasesArabic Phrases
 
English GreetingsArabic Greetings:
Hi!Salam!   سلام
Good morning!Sabah el kheer   صباح الخير
Good evening!Masaa el kheer   مساء الخير
Welcome! (to greet someone)Marhaban   مرحبا
How are you?Kaifa haloka/ haloki ( female)   كيف حالك؟
I'm fine, thanks!Ana bekhair, shokran!   أنا بخير شكرا
And you?Wa ant? / Wa anti? (female)   و أنت؟
Good/ So-So.Jayed/ 'aadee   جيد / عادي
Thank you (very much)!Shokran (jazeelan)   (شكرا (جزيلا
You're welcome! (for "thank you")Al’afw   ألعفو
Hey! Friend!Ahlan sadiqi/ sadiqati! (female)   أهلا صديقي /صديقتي!
I missed you so much!Eshtaqto elaika/ elaiki (female) katheeran   إشتقت إليك كثيرا
What's new? Maljadeed?   مالجديد؟
Nothing muchLashai jadeed   لا شيء جديد
Good night!Tosbeho/ tosbeheena (female) ‘ala khair/   تصبح/ تصبحين على خير
See you later!Araka/ Araki (female) fi ma ba'd   أراك في مابعد
Good bye!Ma’a salama   مع السلامة
Asking for Help and Directions
I'm lostAda'tu tareeqi!     أضعت طريقي! أضعت طريقي!
Can I help you?Hal beemkani mosa’adatuk?   هل بإمكاني مساعدتك؟
Can you help me?Hal beemkanek mosa’adati?   هل بإمكانك مساعدتي؟
Where is the (bathroom/ pharmacy)?Ayna ajedu (al merhaad/ assaidaliah)?   أين أجد (المرحاض/ الصيدلية)؟
Go straight! then turn left/ right!imshy ala tool, thumma ‘arrij yaminan/ shimalan
أمشٍ على طول ثم عرّج يمينا/ شمالا!
I'm looking for john.Abhatu ‘an John   أبحث عن جون
One moment please!Lahda men fadlek/ fadleki (female)   لحظة من فضلك
Hold on please! (phone)ibqa/ ibqay (female) ala al khat raja'an   إبقى/ أبقي علي الخط رجاءا!
How much is this?Kam howa thamanoh? (th as in bath)    كم هو ثمنه؟
Excuse me ...! (to ask for something)Men fathlek/ fathleki (female) (th as in that)   من فضلك
Excuse me! ( to pass by)Alma'derah   المعذرة
Come with me!Ta'ala/ ta'alay (female) ma'ee!   تعال معي!

Makkah Clock Tower

Makkah Clock Tower

Makkah Clock Tower

Makkah Clock Tower

Makkah Clock Tower

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Makkah Metro Train

The Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro Line project in Makkah (Mecca) saw a 18.1km line constructed to connect the holy cities of Makkah (Mecca), Arafat, Muzdalifa and Mina. The line provides transport for about 3.5 million people who arrive at Makkah (Mecca) annually to perform Hajj. The number is expected to increase to five million in future. Construction of the monorail project has helped to solve the problem of heavy traffic congestion in the holy cities during the Hajj period and meet the transportation needs of the local people . Master plans drawn up by Mono Metro show that five monorails need to be constructed to handle the flow of pilgrims to the holy cities.

Makkah Metro Train

"The Makkah monorail project has been one of many undertaken by Saudi Arabia to expand its railway network."Based on the need to transport pilgrims from Mina to Arafat a four-line parallel loop network was developed. The line can transport about 500,000 pilgrims in six to eight hours. It has also allowed authorities to reduce the number of buses needed to transport pilgrims from 70,000 to 25,000.

Makkah Metro Train


The first phase of the project includes the four-line loop with a network of pick-up and drop-off stations between Mina and Arafat. The first of the five new metro lines started operating with Automatic Train Protection at 35% capacity by November 2010. By mid-2011, the line will run without a driver but with an attendant on board. The metro will reach full capacity to carry 72,000 passengers in each direction per hour by 2011's Hajj. About 8,000 skilled and unskilled workers, along with 5,000 engineers, were engaged in the project.

Makkah Metro Train Project

The line services Mina, Arafat and Muzdafila, each of which have three substations each. The four-line parallel loop network splits into single tracks covering all the encampment zones in Mina. Mina is the last station on the metro line and is located towards the west of the Jamarat Bridge. The metro line will be linked to all the four floors of the bridge with elevators.

The four-line parallel route moves south towards Arafat before reaching a main station next to the Arafat Mosque and splitting again into a single-line network to carry pilgrims into Arafat. The lines come together again and move towards Muzdelefa, where pilgrims can spend ceremonial time before returning to Mina.

The line runs on a viaduct with the depot located at the end of the trail that is behind the first station in Arafat. A turnaround loop is planned between the last station and the depot.

Makkah Metro Train

The future
Studies are being carried out to ascertain the extension of the monorail to a station close to the Grand Mosque in Makkah (Mecca) and linking it with Jeddah airport and the Haramain Railway that connects the two holy cities of Makkah (Mecca) and Madinah. Similar projects are planned for the city of Madinah in the future.

Monday, September 12, 2011

Learn Arabic before go for Umrah or Hajj (Makkah or Madina [Saudi Arabia])

Arabic is one of the most spoken languages in the world with over 200 million speakers. It is spoken in 24 countries and is the official language of all the countries of northern Africa, the Arabian peninsula, and in much of the Middle East, including Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. As the religious language of Islam, it is also the second language of millions of Muslims around the world. It is one of the six official languages of the United Nations.

The Arabic language can be divided into three main categories:

Quranic (Classical Arabic):
This is the Arabic of Islam's holy book, the Quran (or Koran). It is archaic, which means that it is very old, dating from the late 600's when the Quran was written down. It is used in the Quran and in the holy books of Islam. No one speaks Classical Arabic as a native, nor is it used for conversation. It is learned primarily for reciting and reading the Quran.

Formal or Modern Standard Arabic:
This is an updated version of Classical Arabic which is taught in the schools of Arab countries. It is the language of the news, modern literature and education. No one speaks it as a native language but it is used as a common language for people who speak very different varieties of Arabic or by second-language speakers.

Spoken or Colloquial Arabic:
There are many local varieties of Arabic, many languages in their own right. The most widely spoken and understood of these is Egyptian Arabic. Other distinct varieties are Iraqi, Levantine (Lebanese/Syrian/Jordanian/Palestinian) and Moroccan Arabic.

Some common Arabic phrases are presented here for your information

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

May Allah Accept our/your Hajj & Umrah (Congratulations on Hajj & Umrah) Mubarak ho!

May Allah Accept our/your Hajj & Umrah (Congratulations on Hajj & Umrah) Mubarak ho!

May Allah Accept our/your Hajj & Umrah (Congratulations on Hajj & Umrah) Mubarak ho!

May Allah Accept our/your Hajj & Umrah (Congratulations on Hajj & Umrah) Mubarak ho!

Hajj Mubarak

Hajj Mubarak

Hajj Mubarak

Hajj Mubarak

Umrah Mubarak


Umrah Mubarak

Umrah Mubarak

Umrah Mubarak

Friday, August 5, 2011

Stages of Makkah’s Development

Makkah at time of Prophet Hadrat Ibrahim AS (Hazrat Ibrahim)

Makkah at time of Prophet Hadrat Muhammad PBUH (Hazrat Muhammad SAWW)

Makkah at time of Banu Umaya

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Umrah-e-Mufrada, Umrah-e-Tamatto

The first part of Hajj, "Umra-e-Tamatto" is different from the Umra performed during the rest of the year which is called Umra-e-Mufrada. However during the Hajj journey Umra-e-Mufrada can also be performed (sometimes Hajj journey begins with Umra-e-Mufrada with the actual Hajj coming later on).

Umra-e-Mufrada/Tamatto at a glance:

It consists of the following waajibaat:
1. Wearing ehram at miqaat.
2. Tawaf i.e. to go around the kaa'ba
3. To recite two rakaat salaat-e-Tawaf behind Maqame Ibrahim.
4. Saee i.e. walking between Safa and Marwah
5. Halaqa (shaving the head)/ taqseer (to cut of little hair)

For Umra e Mufrada only:
6. To perform Tawaf-e-Nisa
7. Two rakaat salaat of Tawaf-e-Nisa

Method of Umra-e-Tamatto in short:
First Umra-e-Tamatto should be performed which includes 5 wajibaat:
1.To wear the ehram
2.Tawaf of kaa'ba
3.Two rakaat salaat of Tawaf
4.Saee between Safa and Marwah
5.Taqseer (Umra-e-Tamatto finishes with taqseer but if you are performing Umra-e-Mufrada you must perform Tawaf-e-nisa and salaat of Tawaf-e-Nisa.)

Restrictions of Ehram (Ahram) for Men and Women

Certain things are prohibited in the state of ehram some of these are prohibited even in daily normal life but because of ehram there is a stronger emphasis on these.

Restrictions which apply to both men and women:
1.Hunting animals on land.
2.Carrying weapons
3.Having sexual relations.
4.Kissing women.
5.Touching women with intention of pleasure.
6.Looking at a non-mehram woman with lust.
7.Masturbation
8.Marrying (Nikkah)
9.Using perfume
10.Applying kajal in eyes.
11.Removing hair from the body
12.Cutting nails
13.Using something with the intention of beautification, even if it is a watch or a ring.
14.Killing worms or lice found on the body.
15.Lying, boasting, abusing, etc.
16.Tooth extraction

Things which are prohibited for men in the state of ehram but allowed for women:
1.Covering of head
2.To wear something that covers the top part of the foot completely example: socks, shoes, etc
3.To wear sewn clothes.

The above mentioned four things are not only allowed for women but if there is a na-mehram onlooker then it will be wajib for her to cover her feet completely even in the state of ehram.

Things are prohibited for women only:
1.To cover the face with cloth, etc.
2.To wear gloves.

All the above mentioned things are haraam in ehram. Performing some of these is a sin and attracts Kaffarah, while performing some others does not attract any penalty however one must do istighfar (repent) for the sin. When Kaffarah becomes wajib it must be paid in Makkah.

Not bypass Miqaat (Meeqat) without ehram (Ahram)

Shariat has clearly defined certain places for wearing ehram, these are called miqaat. One may not bypass these designated areas and proceed to Makkah without ehram.

Ordinarily people proceed to Makkah in one of these three ways:

1.First go to Madinah then proceed to Makkah for Hajj:
When these people leave Madinah they will come across Masjid-e-Shajarah at a distance of 6 miles from Madinah. This is a miqaat from where the Hajj ehram should be worn.

2.First go to Makkah for Hajj then proceed to Madinah:
When such persons reach Jeddah they should proceed to Johfah which is a miqaat and wear the ehram of Hajj from there. However they can, before reaching Jeddah (in their hometown or in the plane) wear ehram.

3.First go to Makkah then go to Madinah then return to Makkah for Hajj:
Such people when they enter Makkah for the first time should wear ehram of Umra-e-Mufrada, then they go to Madinah and when they return to Makkah they should wear the ehram of Hajj at Masjid-e-Shajarah. These people are initially required to wear ehram of Umra-e-Mufrada, because once you have entered Makkah wearing the ehram of Umra e Tamatto you cannot leave Makkah till Hajj is complete, while these people would like to go to Madinah before Hajj.

Waajibaats of Hajj

1.To wear the ehram.
2.To stay in Arafaat on the 9th of zilhijja between noon (zawwal) and sunset.
3.To remain in Muzdalifa on the 10th of zilhijja between dawn (fajr) and sunrise.
4.To throw pebbles on the biggest jamaraah (shaytaan/pillar) on the 10th of zilhijja.
5.To perform Qurbaani (sacrifice) after stoning.
6.To perform Halaqa/Taqseer (women should do only taqseer).
7.To spend half the night of 11th and 12th in Mina.
8.To stone all the three jamaraat on the 11th and 12th zilhijja.
9.Tawaf of Hajj.
10.Salaat of Tawaf.
11.Saee between Safa and Marwah for Hajj.
12.Tawaf
13.Salaat of Tawaf

Persons on whom Hajj is wajib (Faraz, Fard)

Hajj becomes wajib on anyone who fulfills the following requirements:

1. Is baligh.
2. Has enough time to go to Makkah and perform all the rites of Hajj.
3. Has enough money for travel and other Hajj related expenses. Example: Food, accommodation, qurbani, etc.
4. Should have enough money to give to his dependents so that they can meet their requirements until his return from Hajj.
5. Security i.e. there should be no danger to the pilgrim's life, wealth or honor throughout the journey.
6. Should be healthy enough to perform all the rites of Hajj. He should not have such an illness or weakness that he cannot bear the difficulties of the journey.
7. On return from Hajj he should be able to earn for himself and his dependants.

Rule:
Hajj will also become wajib if someone else gives you money to meet your Hajj expenses and once you've performed such a Hajj, Hajj will never be obligatory upon you ever again, even if at a later date you are financially able to perform Hajj yourself. Example: A father pays for his baligha daughters' Hajj expenses.

Important Note:
If a person has taken a loan and the loan repayment date has not yet arrived but he has now got enough money to meet Hajj expenses he will first perform Hajj and later repay the loan. Simply being in debt does not waive Hajj.

If a person has some property or assets that are above his social standing, it is wajib upon him to sell them and meet his Hajj expenses.

If a lady has more jewelry than her social standing allows her to keep or she has become so old that she does not need her jewelry she must sell her jewelry and use the money to go for Hajj. Similarly if the lady has enough meher money to meet her Hajj expenses and it is possible for her to obtain her meher then it is wajib for her to demand her meher and go for Hajj.

If a person has only so much money that if he pays the zakat which are wajib on him he will not have enough money remaining for Hajj, then it is wajib upon him to pay the zakat and Hajj will no longer be wajib on him.

If someone is so old or weak that he cannot bear the difficulties of Hajj, then Hajj is not wajib on him. But if Hajj was previously wajib on him and in spite of having the ability he had not performed it, Hajj has to be performed in whichever way possible even if he is now old or weak. And if he is completely unable to perform Hajj then during his lifetime he should send someone else to perform Hajj on his behalf and if this is not possible he should make a will in this regard.

If Hajj becomes wajib on a person and he dies, Hajj expenses must be set aside from the wealth he leaves behind. Without removing this sum, distributing his wealth is haraam and a sin.

When Hajj becomes wajib, it is wajib to discharge the duty immediately i.e. in the same year. It is not allowed to postpone it.

Slaughterhouses in the Holy City of Makkah

Slaughterhouse

Total area
Completion
Contract
Objective
Municipality Slaughterhouse
Kakiyah near old vegetables & fruits market
Approx. 50.000 sq. m.

The slaughterhouse was completed on 17/10/1399 H
Currently being invested until 25/07/1427 H, as per contract No.20 between the Municipality and Alwi Tunsi & Bros. Establishment
Provide edible slaughtered meat to butcher shops and meat markets in the Holy City of Makkah
Automatic Makkah Slaughterhouse
Kakiyah near sheep farms
Approx. 6.000 sq. m.

The temporary slaughterhouse was completed on 04/08/1409 H until the new slaughterhouse was completed on 02/01/1416 H
Currently being invested for 20 years starting from 02/01/1416 H as per contract No. 11 dated 04/08/1406 H between the Municipality and the Al-Sonblah Co. for Maintenance & Operation Ltd.
Provide services to citizens, residents, and Makkah visitors
Al-Aseelah Slaughterhouse
Al-Aseelah, Alshrayeh
Approx. 152.000 sq. m.
It was set up in 1407 H and started work in 1409 H. it was re-opened in 1417 H by Khalid Ashitri and started work on 1/11/1417 H
Private investment by Salem Mohammad Alqahtani Establishment
Provide services to citizens, residents, and Makkah visitors
Heda Slaughterhouse
Heda, Makkah-Jeddah Old Highway
Approx. 531 sq. m.

It started work on 18/07/1410 H; the owner is Sami Kareem Almawal
Not invested (the land is owned by the owner, a Saudi citizen)
Provide services to citizens, residents, and butcher shops in two regions, Heda and Bahra.
Alwadi Slaughterhouse
Al-Jamoum Province
Approx. 2740 m

It was completed on 21/03/1412 H and started work on 02/12/1413 H.
Currently invested for 20 years from 21/03/1412 H as per contract between the Municipality and Alwi Tunsi & Bros. Co.
Provide services to citizens, residents, and butcher shops in Al-Jamoum District and Al-Nawariyah District


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