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Supporting a pilgrim

Family and home

Hajj is easier when the pilgrim knows home is looked after. These guides help families share the jobs: children, elderly relatives, the house, bills and keeping in touch.

Last checked: November 2026. Written for pilgrims travelling from the UK.

Pilgrims often worry most about the people and things they leave behind. A little planning by family and friends lets them focus on worship.

How family can support a Hajj pilgrimA practical checklist for family and friends of a UK pilgrim: who does what before, during and after Hajj.Children and elderly relatives during HajjHow to plan care for young children and elderly parents while a pilgrim is away on Hajj for two to three weeks.Looking after the house while on HajjA UK checklist for keeping the home safe and running while a pilgrim is away on Hajj: post, bins, heating, security, plants and pets.Things pilgrims forget before HajjThe everyday jobs and dates UK pilgrims often forget before Hajj, and how family can cover them.Keeping in touch during HajjHow families in the UK can stay in touch with a pilgrim during Hajj: time difference, when to call and what to do in an emergency.Welcoming a pilgrim homeHow to welcome a Hajji home: airport pick-up, rest, health watch-outs and congratulations.Hajji, Hajjah, Hajiani and Alhaji: what they meanWhat the titles Hajji, Hajjah, Hajiani and Alhaji mean, where they come from, and how they are used in the UK and around the world.