12 Culture Shocks You’ll Experience During Umrah

For many, performing Umrah is a spiritual journey filled with anticipation, reflection, and awe. But beyond the sacred rituals, there are cultural nuances and surprising experiences that catch pilgrims off guard. Here are some culture shocks that travellers often encounter while performing Umrah in Medina and Mecca.

Also read: Saudi Arabia’s Dream of The Desert Luxury Train: Route, Features & Launch Date (2026)

1. The chilling calmness of Medina and Mecca

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Most people imagine the Middle East as perpetually hot and arid. However, arriving in Medina and Mecca, many are surprised by the crisp, cool air, especially during the early mornings and evenings. The serene atmosphere in Medina, in particular, contrasts with the bustling image often associated with these holy cities.

2. The Azan rings six times a day

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Back home, many are used to hearing the call to prayer five times a day. In Medina and Mecca, there’s an additional azan in the last third of the night, inviting the faithful to perform Tahajjud prayers. This call echoes through the quiet night, adding a deeply spiritual layer to the experience.

3. No Qunut or group Dhikr after Fajr

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Another surprise comes during the Fajr (dawn) prayer. Unlike in some regions where the Qunut (a special supplication) is recited, here it isn’t part of the practice. Additionally, there are no group dhikr sessions after the prayer, which can feel unusual for those accustomed to communal recitations.

4. The high cost of goods and the art of bargaining

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Shopping in Medina and Mecca can be an eye-opener. Prices for souvenirs, dates, and other goods are often higher than expected. Bargaining isn’t just common; it’s essential. Mastering the art of negotiation can lead to significant savings, and it's all part of the vibrant marketplace culture.

5. Securing a spot in the mosque requires early arrival

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To pray inside the Grand Mosques, especially near the Kaaba or in Rawdah in Medina, pilgrims need to arrive 1-2 hours before the call to prayer. The crowds are immense, and finding a comfortable spot requires patience and strategic timing.

6. A funeral prayer after every Fardu prayer

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One of the most humbling experiences is witnessing the regular occurrence of Janazah (funeral) prayers immediately after every obligatory prayer. It serves as a poignant reminder of life's fragility and the ever-present cycle of life and death.

7. Mecca never sleeps

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Unlike many cities that quiet down at night, Mecca is alive 24/7. The flow of pilgrims performing Tawaf around the Kaaba never stops, creating an atmosphere of constant devotion. The city’s energy is both overwhelming and inspiring.

8. Women participating in Friday prayers

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In some cultures, it’s uncommon for women to attend Friday prayers or listen to the khutbah (sermon). In Mecca and Medina, women actively participate, filling designated prayer areas and sharing in the spiritual ambience of Jumu'ah.

9. The absence of motorbikes

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Don’t expect to see motorbikes weaving through traffic. Transportation mainly consists of cars and buses, and within the mosque vicinities, most people walk. This pedestrian culture enhances the communal feel and encourages reflection during those walks.

10. Abundant access to Zamzam water

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No need to ration Zamzam water. Pilgrims can drink to their heart's content from the numerous dispensers scattered throughout the mosques. It's a refreshing and symbolic act of sustenance during the spiritual journey.

11. Unspoken prayer etiquette

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During prayer, people avoid stepping directly in front of someone praying, even if it means taking a longer route around them. This deep respect for personal prayer space reflects the sanctity placed on one’s connection with God.

12. Life pauses for prayer

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When the call to prayer sounds, everything halts. Shops close, conversations stop, and people lay down their prayer mats wherever they are—on sidewalks, in malls, even in the middle of bustling streets. This collective pause is a powerful testament to the priority of faith in daily life.

Final reflections

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Also read: How to Perform Hajj: The Various Stages Step-by-Step

Performing Umrah is not just a series of rituals; it's an immersion into a world where faith permeates every moment. The cultural surprises along the way, from prayer practices to daily routines, enrich the spiritual experience, leaving pilgrims with stories and lessons that resonate long after they return home.