This isn’t just an Umrah — it’s a 10-day program for the heart. Walk the lands of the Sīrah, perform Umrah in a small circle of sisters, and study the life and legacy of our Mother ʿĀʾishah (R.A.) with scholar of Islamic Theology, Hadith specialism, Dr. Sofia Rehman, hosted on the ground by Makkah native and certified guide Dr. Naila Althagafi. Daily classes, historic excursions, and a guaranteed Rawḍah visit — all curated so you can simply arrive and worship.

Meet your Knowledgeable Female Scholar & your Saudi Expert Retreat Host

“More than a trip — a program worth the investment. You leave with knowledge, a sisterhood, and a deeper connection to Allah that lasts long after you return.”

What sets us apart?

Who is this Retreat for?

Muslim women (18+), including born muslim, reverts and first-time pilgrims. Whether it’s your first Umrah or your fifth, you’ll have step-by-step guidance, female mentors, and a nurturing sisterhood. Group size is kept to 20–25 so every sister gets attention and space to reflect.

• I am a convert—is this trip suitable for me?

  Yes, absolutely. We have specifically designed The Retreat to be a safe, judgment-free, and deeply enriching environment for sisters who have embraced Islam.

  We believe that your first (or fifth!) Umrah should be about connection, not confusion. Here is how we support our convert sisters:

  • Small Group Intimacy: By keeping our groups small, you aren't just a number in a crowd. You get direct access to our mentors and teachers for all your questions—no matter how small they may feel.

  • Step-by-Step Guidance: We don’t assume everyone knows the rituals. We provide clear, practical "how-to" sessions before and during the trip so you feel confident in your worship.

  • A "Come as You Are" Space: Whether you’ve been Muslim for twenty years or twenty minutes, you are welcome here. Our teaching focuses on the spiritual "why" behind the rituals, making the experience deeply personal and rooted in the heart.

  • Peer Support: You’ll be surrounded by a diverse sisterhood. You’ll find that many of our travelers share similar journeys, providing a unique support system of women who truly "get it."

  Our Philosophy: We are here to hold your hand through the process so you can focus entirely on your relationship with Allah.

• Can I do Umrah without a mahram?

  Yes, absolutely.

  The Official Regulation

  As of 2022, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah officially announced that women from all over the world are permitted to perform Hajj and Umrah without a Mahram. This change was made to facilitate worship for women who may not have a male relative able to travel, ensuring that the doors to the Two Holy Mosques remain open to all.

  Scholarly Support & the "Trustworthy Group"

  While there is a diversity of opinion among Islamic schools of thought, your travel with The Retreat aligns with the established "Safe Company" (Al-Suhba al-Ma’muna) ruling:

  • The Maliki and Shafi’i Schools: These traditional schools of jurisprudence permit a woman to travel for pilgrimage without a Mahram provided she is in trustworthy company (a group of reliable women or a secure travel party).

  • The Concept of Safety: Many contemporary scholars, including those from Al-Azhar and the European Council for Fatwa and Research, have ruled that the original Prophetic prohibition was based on the physical dangers of desert travel in the past. In the modern era of secure airports, group transport, and monitored hotels, they view a "trustworthy group" as a valid fulfillment of the requirement for protection.

  Our Commitment: The Retreat is specifically designed to be that "Trustworthy Group." We provide end-to-end coordination, group transportation, and a sisterhood environment so that you are never truly traveling "alone."

  Quick Links for Your Research:

  • Saudi Ministry of Hajj & Umrah - Official News

  • Dar Al-Ifta (Egypt) - Ruling on Women's Travel

  • Search: "Fatwa on women traveling for Umrah in a safe group"

• Do I need to apply for visa?

  No, your package include the Umrah Visa & Medical Insurance for AU, UK, USA, CA, EU & NZ passport holders (For other countries extra fees may apply). Please contact us for more information.

• What happens if there is a travel or flight delay?

  We understand that travel plans can shift. Our on-ground team is available 24/7 to assist. Should your flight be delayed, simply notify us via our dedicated emergency contact, and we will coordinate your late arrival/transfer to ensure you rejoin the group seamlessly.

• What’s the weather like in December?

  December is one of the most beautiful times to visit the Saudi— mild, comfortable days and cool evenings, ideal for worship, walking the historic sites, and our outdoor programs. We’ll send a simple packing guide (light layers + a warm wrap for evenings) before you travel.

• How do the women in the group connect?

  Sisterhood is at the heart of The Retreat. We facilitate connection through:

  • Private Group Chat: Launched before the trip so you can meet your fellow travelers.

  • Circle Sessions: Daily heart-to-heart reflections and group discussions.

  • Roommate Matching: For those traveling solo, we thoughtfully pair sisters to foster lifelong friendships.

• Which airport should I fly into?

  To plan your route, we recommend first checking the itinerary to see which city The Retreat officially begins and ends in.

  However, for most international travelers, we highly recommend flying into King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah. As the primary gateway to the Holy Lands, it offers the most frequent international flights and has proven to be the most streamlined and secure entry point for our 2026 program.

  Pro-Tip: The Haramain High-Speed Train If our itinerary begins in one city (such as Madinah) and concludes in another (such as Makkah), we often utilize the Haramain High-Speed Train. This world-class, 300 km/h "bullet train" connects Jeddah Airport directly to both Holy Cities in total comfort. It is fast, fully air-conditioned, and provides a beautiful, modern way to travel through the Hijaz region.

  Note for Train Travelers: If you choose to use the high-speed rail, please be mindful of the strict check-in times and luggage weight requirements. Our team is happy to provide you with the latest baggage guidelines to ensure your transit is effortless.

• Can I arrive a day early?

  Yes, and we highly recommend it! Many of our sisters choose to arrive 24 hours before the official program begins. we help them with arranging accommodation and transport for additional fee. This allows you to:

  • Beat the Jet Lag: Rest and hydrate so you can start the spiritual program with full energy.

  • Jeddah Shopping: Take advantage of the famous souks and malls in Jeddah to pick up high-quality abayas, prayer mats, or essentials before we head into the more crowded areas of the Holy Cities.

  • Ease into the Culture: Enjoy a calm dinner by the Red Sea and settle into the local rhythm at your own pace.

• can I extend my stay after the retreat?

  Absolutely. We are happy to help you extend your stay along with other participants if you wish to spend more time in the Holy Cities. Please let us know as early as possible, as hotel availability can be limited during the peak season. We will provide you with a quote for the additional nights and help coordinate your extended stay.

Ready to join?

Secure your spot with a non-refundable $400 USD deposit (deducted from your total) and pay Up to 4 installments (processing fee applies). Balance due 30 days before the retreat. By booking, you agree to all Terms and conditions.