As the sacred month of Dhul Hijjah begins, hearts across the Muslim world are filled with longing, for Makkah, for forgiveness, and for nearness to Allah. Among the thousands preparing for this journey of a lifetime are Amina and Yusuf Khan, a couple from Manchester whose path to Hajj is a heartfelt story of patience, sacrifice, and unwavering faith.
Sitting in their home, surrounded by packed bags and prayer books, Amina reflects on the journey that brought them here. “We always dreamed of going for Hajj together,” she says. “But between work, financial pressure, and day-to-day life, it felt like something we’d have to keep putting off. This year, Allah opened the door.”
Three years ago, the couple decided to start saving seriously. They opened a dedicated Hajj savings account and committed to monthly contributions, no matter how small. “We cut back on extras, no more takeaways, fewer shopping trips, even skipped a holiday,” Yusuf adds. “It wasn’t easy, but we knew what we were saving for was far greater than anything we were giving up.”
Their strategy wasn’t about shortcuts, but consistency. They budgeted carefully, tracked their spending, made regular du’a for barakah in their earnings, and avoided interest-based payment plans. “Every month we put something aside felt like an act of worship in itself,” Amina says. “We were investing in our akhirah.”
Now, with their Hajj bookings confirmed and the final days of preparation underway, the couple is soaking in the emotional weight of the journey. They’ve been watching documentaries, attending local Hajj workshops, and speaking with family members who’ve performed Hajj before. “We want to go with knowledge, with presence of heart,” says Yusuf. “This isn’t a holiday. This is a response to a divine call.”
For Amina, the most powerful moment she’s anticipating is the first sight of the Kaaba. “I’ve imagined it so many times, but I know nothing will compare to that moment. We’re not just visiting. We’re being invited. We are guests of Allah.”
As millions of Muslims prepare to make this sacred journey, Amina and Yusuf’s story is a reminder that Hajj is not just about arriving in Makkah, it’s about the journey that begins long before. It’s about the quiet sacrifices, the steadfast intention, and the deep hope that when Allah invites you, you are ready.
“After all the planning, saving, and praying,” Yusuf says, “we’re just grateful. Grateful that He chose us. That our names were written among the guests this year.”
Their journey is a testament to the power of intention and the mercy of Allah. And for those still waiting for their turn, it’s a hopeful message: keep striving, your invitation may come when you least expect it.
May Allah accept the Hajj of all pilgrims this year, and grant those still longing a place among the invited.
