Not everyone gets to go for Umrah. It's only those whom Allah have selected that are able to go. Despite the plans that we may make, it's ultimately not in our control whether we'll successfully go for Umrah or not.
Some people plan their trip out for months or years in advance, save up, pay for their plane tickets and hotel bookings, and prepare in every way they can. And then at the last minute, something happens that prevents them from going. We're in Hajj season currently and a story has been going around of an Indonesian man going for Hajj who passed away on the flight.
Jabir reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “The pilgrims of Hajj and Umrah are the guests of Allah. He called them, and they answered him. They ask from Him, and He gives them.” (Source: Kashf al-Astār 1075)
These Hujjaj are going in the path of Allah, seeking his reward and his forgiveness, and asking Him for their needs. They are His guests, and He responds to their Dua.
As someone offering Umrah services, it's important for you to keep this in mind when putting together your Umrah packages and working with the Hujjaj. These are the guests of Allah. Don't just give them the minimum. Go above and beyond.
Make their Umrah or Hajj a memorable experience for them. Continue to advise them and remind them of how to make the most of their time. Take them to the different sites in Makkah and Madinah like Qubaa', Uhud, Jabal al-Rahmah, and the Rawdah. Encourage them to reflect, to increase in Dhikr, to make sincere du’a, and to seek nearness to Allah throughout their journey.
Even small details matter, whether it’s preparing them mentally and spiritually before the journey, or making sure their logistics are smooth and stress-free once they arrive. Treat each group as if they’re your own family. These are people who may have waited a lifetime for this journey. Give them more than a trip. Give them an experience that could be the turning point in their life.