Lost in the Haram: Why I Designed Emergency Cards for Pilgrims

In Ramadan 2019, I was blessed to perform Umrah. It was one of the most beautiful and overwhelming experiences of my life — and on the very first day, I got lost.

I had just completed my Umrah. The Haram was full, as it always is in Ramadan, and in the middle of the crowds my husband and I were separated. He was moved to another floor to pray, and suddenly I couldn't see him anywhere.

He had a local SIM. I didn't.

I had no way to call him, and he had no way to reach me. We spent a long time searching for each other in a sea of people, walking, waiting, and hoping. Eventually we found each other, but I still remember that helpless feeling — surrounded by thousands of people, yet unable to tell anyone who I was with or where we were staying.

Years later, while building Kardit, that day came back to me. If I had been carrying a simple card with my husband's number, our hotel and our group details, anyone around me could have helped in seconds.

That's why I designed the Kardit Umrah & Hajj Pilgrim Card.

Getting separated is very common, especially during Ramadan and Hajj, when millions of pilgrims fill the same spaces. Elderly parents, first-time pilgrims and anyone without a working phone are especially at risk. A card in your pocket or on a lanyard can make all the difference.

Your Pilgrim Card can include:

• Your photo and name
• Your group or travel agency name
• Your group leader's name and phone number
• Your hotel in Makkah and in Madinah, with a QR code to the hotel location
• An emergency contact back home
• Blood group, allergies and medical notes
• The languages you speak
• "Please help me return to my group" in English, Arabic and Urdu

The QR code works without internet. Anyone who scans it can see your details and call your group leader with one tap.

You can print it as a wallet card, a lanyard badge or a luggage tag. Travel agencies can also create cards for their whole group in one go.

Please note: this is a personal emergency card. It does not replace your official Nusuk card or any document required by the authorities — it simply helps people help you.

A few tips before you travel:

• Make one card for every family member, especially elderly parents and children
• Keep it on a lanyard or in an easy-to-reach pocket
• Agree on a meeting point with your family before entering the Haram
• Never add your passport or visa number to the card

May Allah accept your Umrah and Hajj, and may you always find your way back to your loved ones.

Ayesha Founder, Kardit