Since Haj is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most people, the importance of early and adequate preparation cannot be over-emphasized. There is a considerable investment of money, time, and physical effort required for the Pilgrimage to be fulfilling and meaningful. Information has to be collected, itineraries must be worked out, and documents have to be readied. The purpose of these preparations is not only to minimize physical discomfort, emotional aggravation and monetary expenses, but also to enable you to perform Haj in relative peace of heart and mind. Therefore, it makes sense to be as ready as possible for this momentous journey of self-discovery, self-appraisal, and spiritual enlightenment.

Islamically

The following conditions must be satisfied for Haj to be acceptable to Allah :
1. A Pilgrim must be a sane adult person.
2. A Pilgrim must pay off all debt. Pilgrim must not be a debtor before departing. He or she must be completely debt-free.
3. A Pilgrim must leave sufficient money for his family's expenses while he is away on Haj.
4. A Pilgrim must have sufficient funds to meet his or her own Haj expenses.
5. A Pilgrim must ask permission of his or her parents, particularly when they are sick or old and should also seek their pardon.
6. A Pilgrim must complete a regular "Will" ("waseeyyat") before departing.

Spiritually

A person must spend time learning about Islam, the background of Haj, the special requirements, "Masnoon Dua" for the "Manasik" of Haj (the "Fardh" and the

"sunnah" of Prophet Muhammad ) prior to leaving.

It is recommended to familiarize oneself with the details pertaining to the rites of Haj. The ceremony of Haj must be according to the sunnah of Prophet Muhammad and must conform to one's "fiqh madhab" (Islamic school of thought).

The complex rituals are performed differently by Hujjaj following the Hanafi, Shâfi, Malaki and Hambali doctrines. Furthermore, shia have their own beliefs. As such toleration and moderation must be cultivated.

Remember, for "Haj-e-Mabrur ", acceptance of your efforts for Haj is solely Allah's prerogative and thus a mercy from Him.

We pray that your and Haj of all be accepted by Allah. Ameen!

Physically

Haj require lots of strenuous physical activity. Although, all of it is amply rewarded by Allah, the intense exertion coupled with harsh desert climate can take a serious toll on the body.

The aged, women, patients suffering from heart, breathing & other ailments and the physically challenged Muslims planning on this blessed trip MUST be accompanied by able bodied & healthy caretakers. It is the responsibility of the person to ensure that he or she is sufficiently prepared to undertake the physical challenge. An individual should not unnecessarily burden strangers. People are eager to assist fellow Hujjaj but one must be aware of potential health problems and take adequate precautions to avoid problems. The rest is up to Gracious Allah.

Mentally

The journey to Arabia for Haj requires mental conditioning since we will be given lessons in becoming sincere "Abdullah" (Allah slaves). We have to learn to control our tongues, egos and arrogance. Hujjaj dress alike in Ihram during Haj, regardless, of who they might be in this world. Royalty, corporate executives, normal people or poor people are all slaves in front of Allah: begging for His mercy and forgiveness. Our goal must be to do our very best that we may get the highest rewards from Allah.

Furthermore, the Saudi society and culture today is very different from our own and our expectations. The entire trip is an eye-opening experience. We must pray to Allah to make Haj easy for us, prepare us for the difficulties and Graciously accept our Haj out of His Mercy.

The great differences in language, food, social and religious habits, attitudes of police folks and bureaucrats can cause major stress. Furthermore, the concept of politeness and courtesy is unfortunately absent from the local people providing various services to Hujjaj. These include the Mutawwifs and their agents, salesmen, bank tellers, taxi and bus drivers and operators, tour managers, restaurant and hotel staff, janitors, caretakers, guards, etc. The abruptness and purely commercial motives may shock the Hujjaj. These raw attitudes are in sharp contrast to Hujjaj own state of Islamic awareness.

In general, Hujjaj in Makka are under stress thus the entire atmosphere is tense. This is partly because the Hujjaj want to fulfill their religious obligations properly. And partly because of the severe physical rigors. Also, Satan, is ever more intent to cause mischief amongst Hujjaj. We must acknowledge these conditions and prepare ourselves likewise. Praying to Allah to guide and help us is the only solution.

The vast number of people from various corners of the world, the round-the-clock close proximity to strangers, the queues for food, water, transportation, restrooms and other physical inconveniences does have an impact on the mental well being. We must be prepared to detach ourselves from the outside world and its earthly comforts and focus solely on completion of the blessed responsibility to the best of our ability.

We must refrain from our usual modus operandi and channel all our energies to complete Haj with piety. All this requires mental discipline and will power. Only the blessings and mercies of Allah can help us. We must remain thankful and be hopeful of the abundant reward waiting for us.

Financially

Going for Haj involves certain amount of investment. This can vary from US$2000 to US$6000 for the entire journey.

It is a requirement that a Haaji must be completely debt-free and must provide adequately (out of Allah bounty) for his loved ones before departing on Haj. As such, the person must completely pay off any and all outstanding loans (mortgages, auto loans, college loans, credit card debt, store credit cards, charge cards, etc.) before departing.