How to Perform Umrah: A Step-by-Step Guide

Umrah follows a specific, well-defined sequence of rituals. Unlike Hajj, which unfolds over several days at multiple sites, Umrah is centered entirely on the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) in Makkah and can usually be completed in a single visit. Still, first-time pilgrims often feel nervous about getting the steps right. This guide walks through each stage in order, along with practical notes on what to expect.

What do you need before you begin?

Before starting the rites of Umrah, you need a valid Umrah visa, appropriate travel arrangements, and a basic understanding of the intention and rules of ihram. Many pilgrims prepare by learning the required supplications in advance and packing seamless garments for ihram ahead of time. It's also wise to review the current entry and health requirements through official Saudi channels, such as the Nusuk platform, since rules can change from year to year.

Step 1: Entering ihram at the miqat

Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim enters before beginning the rites of Umrah. It involves both an inward intention and, for men, specific outward dress: two unstitched white cloths, one wrapped around the waist and one over the shoulder. Women wear modest, loose clothing that covers the body, with the face and hands typically left uncovered, and there is no requirement for a specific color.

1. Perform ghusl (a full ritual bath) if possible before entering ihram.
2. Put on ihram garments (for men) or ensure modest dress is ready (for women).
3. Reach the miqat — the designated geographic boundary point pilgrims must not cross without being in ihram. The miqat you use depends on your point of entry into Saudi Arabia; if flying, this is often reached in the air or at a designated stop, and airlines and travel providers typically inform pilgrims when they are approaching it.
4. Make the intention (niyyah) for Umrah, typically stating: "Labbayk Allahumma Umrah" (Here I am, O Allah, for Umrah).
5. Begin reciting the talbiyah, a set of phrases repeated throughout the journey to Makkah: "Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk..." This is recited frequently until you begin tawaf.

Once in ihram, certain restrictions apply: no cutting hair or nails, no use of perfume or scented products, no marital relations, no hunting, and for men, no wearing stitched clothing or covering the head. These restrictions remain in place until tahallul.

Step 2: Performing tawaf

Tawaf is the act of circling the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction, starting and ending at the corner with the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad).

1. Begin each circuit level with the Black Stone corner. If you cannot reach or touch it because of crowds, simply face it and raise your hand, saying "Bismillah, Allahu Akbar," without pushing through the crowd.
2. Complete seven full circuits around the Kaaba, keeping the Kaaba on your left side throughout.
3. Men are encouraged to perform ramal (a brisk, purposeful walk) during the first three circuits, if possible given crowd conditions, and to expose the right shoulder by draping the ihram cloth under the right arm — this applies specifically to tawaf performed upon arrival.
4. There is no single obligatory prayer or phrase for each circuit; many pilgrims recite Quran, supplications, or personal prayers throughout.
5. After completing seven circuits, pray two rak'ahs (units of prayer) near or behind the Station of Ibrahim (Maqam Ibrahim) if space allows, or anywhere else in the mosque if the area is too crowded.

Step 3: Performing sa'i

Sa'i commemorates Hajar's search for water for her son Ismail, walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah, which are now enclosed within the Grand Mosque complex.

1. Proceed to Mount Safa and begin there.
2. Walk from Safa to Marwah — this counts as one circuit.
3. Walk back from Marwah to Safa — this counts as the second circuit.
4. Continue back and forth for a total of seven circuits, ending at Marwah.
5. Men are encouraged to walk briskly (a light jog is traditional) between two green markers along the path, while women walk at a normal pace throughout.
6. As with tawaf, there is no fixed required recitation; pilgrims commonly make personal supplications throughout.

Step 4: Tahallul — exiting ihram

The final step of Umrah is tahallul, which ends the state of ihram.

1. Men shave their head completely (considered more virtuous) or trim their hair evenly across the whole head.
2. Women cut a small portion of hair, roughly the length of a fingertip, from the ends of their hair. Women do not shave their heads.
3. Once this is done, all ihram restrictions are lifted, and Umrah is complete.

What should you do after completing Umrah?

After tahallul, many pilgrims spend additional time in prayer at the Grand Mosque, visit the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah if their itinerary includes it, and take time to reflect. There is no additional ritual required to "close out" Umrah beyond the four steps above. Some pilgrims choose to perform Umrah more than once during a single trip on behalf of themselves or deceased relatives; this involves leaving the sacred area (often to a nearby miqat such as Masjid Aisha), re-entering ihram with a new intention, and repeating the same sequence.

Common mistakes first-time pilgrims should avoid

• Rushing through tawaf or sa'i: There is no need to rush. Crowds can be intense, especially during Ramadan and peak seasons, so pace yourself and prioritize safety over speed.
• Forgetting the miqat: Entering ihram after passing the miqat boundary (rather than at or before it) is a common error; confirm your route and timing in advance.
• Breaking ihram restrictions unknowingly: Review the restrictions before you travel so you don't accidentally use scented products or trim hair/nails while in ihram.
• Not staying hydrated: Makkah's climate is hot for much of the year; drink water (Zamzam is freely available throughout the mosque) and pace physical activity accordingly.

Procedures, crowd-management rules, and mosque layouts can change over time. Review current guidance from official Saudi sources shortly before you travel, and don't hesitate to ask mosque staff or your group leader for direction once you arrive.

Umrah is a deeply personal act of worship, and while the steps are well-defined, the experience of performing them is unique to every pilgrim. Al Forqan for Hajj and Umrah is here to help you prepare with practical, accurate guidance so you can focus on the spiritual meaning of the journey.