Malaysia entered a new chapter in pilgrimage travel with a unique umrah option for prospective pilgrims from January 2026. Rather than travelling solely by air, pilgrims were set to experience worship while sailing across the ocean.
In a landmark for the industry, Malaysia officially became the first Asian country to introduce an umrah package on a fully Sharia-compliant cruise ship.
TAILORED FOR ISLAMIC PRINCIPLES
When people typically thought of a cruise ship, gambling centres or nightclubs often came to mind. However, this ship for the Umrah mission was designed to be different.
To ensure the journey complied with Islamic law, the ship was fully modified. Gambling areas were removed to preserve the blessings of travel, alcohol was not sold anywhere on the cruise, and all dishes provided were guaranteed to be fully halal.
‘HEALING’ AT SEA
For those concerned that the middle of the ocean might become boring, conventional entertainment activities were replaced with programmes intended to benefit the soul.
Certified mutawwifs guided pilgrims through religious lectures and guidance in worship. As a result, before pilgrims set foot in Makkah and Madinah, their minds and souls were expected to be “filled” with sufficient knowledge.
PORT KLANG TO JEDDAH
The journey was scheduled to begin from Port Klang, Selangor. Pilgrims would be taken across the calm Indian Ocean to the port of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and then continue their overland journey to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
The package was presented as especially suitable for seniors, families, and those seeking a new experience, allowing travellers to experience the calm atmosphere at sea before focusing on worship.
