Where Is Masjid Al-Aqsa?
It is important to understand where exactly is Masjid Al-Aqsa. It is located within the city of Jerusalem, Within Jerusalem there is a historic walled fortress city known as the Old City. Within the boundaries of the Old City, you will find the Muslim Quarter, Christian Quarter, Jewish Quarter & Armenian Quarter. Masjid Al-Aqsa is located within the Muslim Quarter.
Remember to access Jerusalem, you must go through Israeli immigration when at the border.
Immigration Borders
There are two main points of entry. If you’re flying in, you will most likely land in Ben Gurion Airport which is in the city of Tel Aviv. Alternatively, if you’re journeying by land from Jordan, the Allenby border crossing will be your gateway. Regardless of the route you choose, you’ll need to go through Israeli immigration upon arrival.
Immigration Wait Times
The duration of your wait at the airport may vary based on certain factors, families and the elderly typically experience swift processing and go straight through immigration upon receiving their visa.
However, if you’re a young traveller, there may be a slightly longer wait time, but this is a routine part of the process and is nothing to be concerned about. The entire immigration procedure typically spans around 1-3 hours with most of the time simply being sat in the waiting area whilst immigration officials do their due diligence.
The waiting area has sandwiches and water available, bathrooms are close by and free Wi-Fi is also available. If at the Allenby Jordan Border Crossing then they even have a small tuck shop to get some snacks during the wait.
Standard Immigration Process
Should you be asked to wait, the vast majority of the time it is simply to confirm some specific details. You’ll likely need to share your father’s name, and your paternal grandfather’s name, along with your contact number and email. Once immigration officials have reviewed the provided information, they will grant you your visa, allowing you to continue on your journey.
Enhanced Immigration Process
Occasionally, travellers might undergo a more comprehensive immigration check. During this enhanced process, officers might request access to your mobile phone, including apps like WhatsApp and Facebook. Given the inherent political sensitivities in the region, content that seems overtly anti-Israeli might lead to further questioning or even denial of entry. Once immigration officials have reviewed the provided information, they will grant you your visa, allowing you to continue on your journey.
Remember to approach this process with clarity about your reason for visiting which is to worship at Masjid Al-Aqsa and to visit the Old City of Jerusalem. It’s also beneficial to readily provide evidence of your return flights, planned itinerary, and hotel accommodation.
Importance of Your Visa Slip
Ensure you keep the paper visa safe with you and carry it at all times until you depart, this is important as security personnel may request to see this whilst travelling. This document acts as a record for your proof of entry. As with all vital travel documents, it’s essential to have it readily available if needed.Â
Your pilgrimage to Masjid Al-Aqsa is a spiritually significant journey, and understanding the logistics of your visit is key to ensuring a smooth experience. With this knowledge about the immigration process, we hope you can embark on your journey with peace of mind.
Remember Your Purpose
As visitors to Masjid Al-Aqsa, it’s paramount to keep in mind the core intent of your journey which is to immerse yourself in prayer and worship at Masjid Al-Aqsa. While each individual may hold their own political views, this pilgrimage is an opportunity for spiritual reflection, not political engagement. Always remain conscious of this and prioritize your spiritual growth whilst visiting the sacred Masjid.
Enjoy Your Visit!
The immigration process, even if it takes a few hours, is but a brief moment in your journey. What truly matters is the invaluable time you will spend in the sacred grounds of Masjid Al-Aqsa.
In addition to the blessed Masjid, you will also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the warmth and hospitality of the locals, indulge in the delightful local sweets, eat at traditional restaurants, and lose yourself in the bustling souqs overfilled with life and colour. As you navigate this unique blend of spirituality and cultural richness, treasure every moment in this amazing land.
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