To perform Umrah, a Muslim follows a clear sequence of sacred acts that begin with entering Ihram and end with cutting the hair, each step carrying spiritual and practical significance. The full Umrah process step by step, including Tawaf, Sa‘i, key supplications, rules for men and women, time requirements, conditions, prohibitions, and permitted practices. Proper preparation, adherence to conditions, and avoidance of prohibited actions ensure validity and acceptance. The rites reflect humility, obedience, and devotion while visiting the sacred cities of Makkah and Madinah.
What are the Steps to Perform Umrah?
The steps to perform umrah are given below:
- Entering the state of Ihram
- Making niyyah at the Miqat
- Performing Tawaf of the Ka‘aba
- Praying at Maqam Ibrahim and drinking Zamzam
- Performing Sa’i between Safa and Marwa
- Halq or Taqsir (shaving or trimming hair)
Below is a detailed step-by-step Umrah guide explaining each stage clearly.
Step 1: Entering Ihram and Making Intention (Niyyah)
Before assuming Ihram, it is highly recommended to perform Ghusl, trim nails, and remove excess body hair. This should be done at home before travel. Men may apply perfume to the body before wearing the Ihram, ensuring none touches the Ihram garments.
Ihram Clothing Rules
- Men wear two unstitched white cloths (Izar and Rida) and sandals that do not cover the ankles.
- Women wear modest, loose clothing and hijab. Gloves, face covering, perfume, makeup, and henna are not allowed in the Ihram.
Ihram must be worn before crossing the Miqat, which usually occurs 20–30 minutes before landing in Saudi Arabia.
Salah al-Ihram
Pray two rak‘ahs of Nafl Salah with the intention of Ihram. It is Sunnah to recite:
- Surah Al-Kafirun (1st rak‘ah)
- Surah Al-Ikhlas (2nd rak‘ah)
Making Niyyah for Umrah
At the Miqat, make the intention by saying:
لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ عُمْرَةً
Labbayk Allahumma bi-Umrah
“Here I am, O Allah, to perform Umrah.”
Talbiyah
From this point onward, recite the Talbiyah frequently:
لَبَّيْكَ اللهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ…
Men recite aloud; women recite softly.
Step 2: Entering Masjid al-Haram
Enter with the right foot, preferably through Bab Bani Shaibah, and recite the recommended du‘a. Upon seeing the Holy Ka‘aba, raise your hands and make heartfelt du‘a; this is a moment when supplications are accepted.
Step 3: Performing Tawaf (Circumambulation)
Tawaf consists of seven circuits around the Ka‘aba and requires wudu.
- Begin at Hajar al-Aswad, saying Allahu Akbar
- If unable to touch it, gesture from afar
- Keep the Ka‘aba on your left
- Men perform Raml (brisk walking) in the first three rounds if possible
- Between the Yemeni Corner and Black Stone, recite:
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً…
Make du‘a throughout Tawaf with sincerity and humility.
Step 4: Maqam Ibrahim & Zamzam
After completing Tawaf:
- Pray two rak‘ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim
- Recite Surah Al-Kafirun and Al-Ikhlas
- Drink Zamzam water, with the intention of healing or blessings
If possible, make du‘a at the Multazam, a highly blessed spot.
Step 5: Performing Sa’i (Safa and Marwa)
Sa’i consists of seven walks between Safa and Marwa.
- Begin at Safa, reciting the relevant Qur’anic verse
- Face the Ka‘aba, raise hands, and make du‘a
- Men jog lightly between the green lights
- Complete seven circuits, ending at Marwa
Step 6: Cutting Hair (Halq or Taqsir)
- Men: Shave the head (preferred) or trim hair
- Women: Cut one fingertip’s length of hair
Your Umrah is now complete. Umrah Mubarak.
How to Perform Umrah for the First Time?
To perform Umrah for the first time, there is no difference in the method of Umrah, whether it is your first time or not. However, first-time pilgrims should prepare carefully, learn the rituals in advance, and remain patient during crowds.
What are the Umrah Guidelines for Women?
The guidelines for women include talbiyah, no raml, purification, and the availability of a mahram.
- Talbiyah recited softly
- No Raml or jogging during Sa’i
- Must be in a state of purity
- Shariah recommends traveling with a Mahram
- Saudi visa allows women to travel without a Mahram, but Islamic rulings vary; consult your scholar.
How Long Does Umrah Take?
Umrah usually takes 3 to 6 hours, depending on crowd size, stamina, and experience. Most Umrah packages range from 7 to 30 days, often including visits to Madinah.
What are the Conditions of Performing Umrah?
The conditions of performing umrah are as follows:
- Must be Muslim
- Reached puberty
- Mentally sound
- Financially and physically capable
- Safe travel and a valid visa
Can Umrah Be Performed on Behalf of Someone Else?
Yes, umrah can be performed on behalf of someone else, such as:
- A deceased person
- Someone chronically ill or physically unable
Only one person per Umrah is allowed.
What are the Prohibited Habits to Avoid During Umrah?
The prohibited habits to avoid during umrah are as follows:
- Perfume
- Cutting hair or nails
- Stitched clothing (men)
- Quarrelling, backbiting, or sinful behaviour
- Hunting or harming animals
- Smoking or drugs
What is the List of Islamic Sites to Visit During Umrah?
The list of Islamic sites to visit during umrah is as follows:
Jabal al-Noor (Cave of Hira)
Jabal al-Noor, meaning Mountain of Light, is one of the most spiritually significant sites near Makkah. It is home to the Cave of Hira, where Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to retreat for reflection and worship. This is the blessed place where the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed through Angel Jibreel, marking the beginning of Prophethood.
Mount Arafat
Mount Arafat is among the most sacred sites in Islam and is central to the rites of Hajj. It is the place where Prophet Muhammad ﷺ delivered his Farewell Sermon. Although standing at Arafat is obligatory only during Hajj, visiting it during Umrah allows pilgrims to reflect on repentance, mercy, and Allah’s forgiveness.
Masjid Aisha (Masjid al-Taneem)
Masjid Aisha is located in the area of Taneem and serves as a Miqat point for those already in Makkah who wish to assume Ihram for Umrah. It is commonly visited by pilgrims intending to perform an additional Umrah. The mosque is spacious, well-maintained, and holds historical importance.
Jannat al-Mu‘alla
Jannat al-Mu‘alla is a historic cemetery in Makkah and the resting place of many companions and family members of the Prophet ﷺ, including his beloved wife Khadijah (RA). Visiting this site reminds pilgrims of the temporary nature of life and the legacy of early Islam.
Masjid an-Nabawi
Masjid an-Nabawi, located in Madinah, is the second-holiest mosque in Islam and was built by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ himself. It houses the Rawdah Sharif, one of the most blessed areas on earth, and the resting place of the Prophet ﷺ. Prayer in this mosque carries immense reward and spiritual significance.
Masjid Quba
Masjid Quba holds the distinction of being the first mosque built in the history of Islam. The Prophet ﷺ used to visit it regularly and encouraged others to pray there. Offering two rak‘ahs in Masjid Quba carries the reward of performing an Umrah, as mentioned in an authentic hadith.
Mount Uhud
Mount Uhud is the site of the historic Battle of Uhud, where many companions of the Prophet ﷺ attained martyrdom. The mountain stands as a symbol of sacrifice, patience, and obedience to Allah. The Prophet ﷺ expressed love for this mountain, saying it loves us and we love it.
Masjid Qiblatayn
Masjid Qiblatayn is known as the Mosque of the Two Qiblas, where Allah commanded the change of Qibla from Masjid al-Aqsa to the Ka‘aba in Makkah. This mosque represents obedience to divine command and is a powerful reminder of unity in Islamic worship.
What is the Significance of Makkah and Madinah During Umrah?
Makkah is the birthplace of the Prophet ﷺ and home to the Ka‘aba, the Qibla of Islam. Madinah is the city of the Prophet ﷺ and the resting place of his blessed grave. Visiting Madinah is not a rite of Umrah, but its rewards are immense.
Final Words to Conclude
Umrah is a journey of humility, patience, and complete submission to Allah. Performing it with correct knowledge and sincere intention transforms the heart and strengthens faith. Proper preparation and understanding of the rites allow pilgrims to focus fully on worship, and many choose trusted travel partners such as Alkareem Travel to ensure a smooth and worry-free journey. May Allah accept your Umrah, forgive your sins, and invite you again and again to His Sacred House.
FAQS
How is Umrah different from Hajj?
Hajj is an obligatory pillar of Islam performed only in specific days of Dhul Hijjah, while Umrah is optional and can be performed at any time with fewer rituals.
Can Umrah be performed at any time of the year?
Yes, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, except during the days when Hajj rituals are being performed.
How many Umrahs can a person perform?
There is no fixed limit, but each Umrah must be performed separately with a new Ihram and intention.
Is 7 Umrah equal to Hajj?
No, performing Umrah multiple times does not equal Hajj, as Hajj is a separate and obligatory pillar of Islam with specific rites and timings.
What are the rules for Umrah?
Umrah requires entering Ihram, making intention at Miqat, performing Tawaf, Sa’i, and cutting or shaving the hair while avoiding prohibited acts during Ihram.
How long does one Umrah take?
One Umrah usually takes around 3 to 6 hours, depending on crowd levels and personal stamina.
How to perform Umrah for beginners?
Beginners perform Umrah by entering Ihram, making niyyah, completing Tawaf, Sa’i between Safa and Marwa, and ending with Halq or Taqsir.
What is Umrah and how do you perform it?
Umrah is a non-obligatory pilgrimage to Makkah performed by entering Ihram, doing Tawaf of the Ka‘aba, performing Sa’i, and trimming or shaving the hair.
