As the world faces the rapid spread of contagious diseases like SARS, many Muslims question whether it is safe and permissible to travel for Umrah. Given that Umrah is a significant spiritual journey for many believers, especially during certain months, the concern arises about the potential health risks associated with large gatherings in Saudi Arabia.

Islam provides clear guidelines on dealing with epidemic outbreaks, balancing religious duties with public health measures. This article explores the Islamic perspective on performing `Umrah during times of widespread disease, incorporating insights from scholars and medical ethics.

Islamic Perspective on Contagious Diseases and Travel

Islam emphasizes the protection of life and the prevention of harm, even in matters of worship. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) established principles for dealing with infectious diseases, advising:

“If you hear about an outbreak of plague in a land, do not go to it; but if such a plague breaks out in a country where you are staying, do not run away from it.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)

This hadith underscores the concept of quarantine and disease containment, ensuring that outbreaks do not spread due to unnecessary movement.

Similarly, `Umar Ibn Al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him) applied this principle when deciding not to enter the plague-stricken region of Levant, recognizing the importance of preventing exposure to a deadly illness.

Is It Permissible to Postpone `Umrah During an Epidemic?

Islamic scholars agree that medical experts should be consulted when making decisions about public health. If doctors determine that a disease like SARS is highly contagious and poses a severe risk during `Umrah, it becomes the responsibility of governments and individuals to take necessary precautions:

  1. Government Responsibility – Authorities in Saudi Arabia and other nations should enforce quarantine measuresfor those carrying infectious diseases to prevent outbreaks in pilgrimage sites.
  2. Individual Responsibility – If a person is infected or at high risk, they should postpone `Umrah until they recover, as Islam forbids harming oneself or others.

Unlike Hajj, which has a fixed time and is obligatory once in a lifetime, **Umrah is voluntary** and can be performed at any time. Therefore, postponing Umrah due to health concerns does not violate Islamic obligations.

Scientific and Religious Justifications for Travel Restrictions

Scholars highlight that Islam predates modern health laws in advocating disease prevention. The Prophet (PBUH) also instructed:

“Do not let sick camels mix with healthy ones.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This aligns with the principles of infection control and medical quarantine used today.

Dr. Mahir As-Sousi, a professor of Shariah, reinforces that if a disease is **proven to be contagious and lethal**, infected individuals **must be prohibited** from traveling for Umrah until the risk subsides. This aligns with the Islamic legal principle:

“Lesser harm can be sustained to fend off a greater one.”

Similarly, Sheikh Abdus-Sattar F. Saeed from Al-Azhar University explains that Islam’s approach to public health is rooted in the Qur’an and Hadith, supporting travel bans and preventive measures when necessary.

Practical Measures for `Umrah During a Pandemic

If travel restrictions are lifted and medical authorities allow `Umrah to continue, proper precautions should be taken:

✅ Health Screenings – Ensure that travelers are disease-free before departure.
✅ Protective Gear – Use masks, gloves, and sanitizers to reduce infection risks.
✅ Educational Campaigns – Distribute informational materials about disease prevention.
✅ Medical Support – Provide on-site healthcare for early detection and treatment.

Dr. Isma`il Radwan from the Islamic University in Gaza emphasizes that Saudi authorities bear the responsibility of ensuring the safety of all pilgrims by implementing such protective measures.

Common Misconceptions: `Umrah for the Prophet’s Birthday

Some Muslims believe that performing Umrah in **Rabi al-Awwal**, the birth month of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), carries special religious merit. However, scholars clarify that there is no specific Islamic ruling linking Umrah to the Prophet’s birthday. The rewards of Umrah during Ramadan are well established, but timing it for the Prophet’s birth is not a recognized Sunnah.

Conclusion: Balancing Faith and Public Health

Islam teaches that protecting life is a fundamental priority. While `Umrah is a great act of worship, it is not obligatory, and postponing it during a pandemic is recommended if there is a genuine risk of infection.

📌 Key Takeaways:

  • If medical experts confirm a severe health risk, infected individuals should delay `Umrah.
  • Governments must enforce quarantine and health safety measures.
  • The Prophet (PBUH) emphasized quarantine and disease prevention long before modern medicine.
  • `Umrah is not tied to the Prophet’s birthday; it can be performed anytime.

By following Islamic teachings and modern medical advice, we can ensure that `Umrah remains a safe and spiritually fulfilling journey for all.