Umrah is a sacred journey made up of four main acts of worship. First, pilgrims enter the state of Ihram before crossing the Miqat, perform two rak’ahs of prayer, make the intention (niyyah), and begin reciting the Talbiyah. Next comes Tawaf around the Kaaba, followed by two rak’ahs of salah. After that, pilgrims perform Sa’i between Safa and Marwah. Finally, the journey ends with Halq (shaving) or Taqsir (trimming hair), completing Umrah.
Table of Contents
- Ihram
- Tawaf
- Sa’i
- Halq or Taqsir
1. Ihram (Entering the Sacred State)
Preparation & Cleanliness
Before wearing Ihram, it is recommended to:
- Trim nails
- Remove unwanted body hair
- Perform Ghusl (full purification)
- If not possible, perform Wudu
Men may apply perfume to the body (not on Ihram clothes).
Ihram Clothing
- Men: Two white unstitched sheets
- Lower garment: Izar
- Upper garment: Rida
- Women: Modest Islamic dress (any color), face and hands uncovered
Footwear should not cover ankles (for men).
When to Wear Ihram
Ihram must be worn before crossing the Miqat:
- Air travelers: wear at airport or before Miqat announcement
- From Madinah: wear Ihram at hotel or Dhul Hulayfah (Miqat)
Salah & Intention (Niyyah)
Pray 2 rak’ahs before making intention.
Then make intention:
“O Allah, I intend to perform Umrah. Make it easy and accept it.”
Talbiyah (Very Important)
After intention, recite:
“Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik…”
This confirms your entry into Ihram. Continue reciting throughout your journey.
Rules of Ihram
While in Ihram:
- Avoid perfume
- Do not cut hair or nails
- Avoid arguments or harmful behavior
2. Entering Makkah & Masjid al-Haram
- Recite Talbiyah while entering Makkah
- Enter Masjid with right foot
- Make dua upon seeing the Kaaba for the first time
3. Tawaf (Circling the Kaaba)
Conditions of Tawaf
- Must be in Wudu
- Cover Awrah
- Perform inside Masjid al-Haram
- Complete 7 rounds
How to Perform Tawaf
- Start at Hajar al-Aswad
- Move anti-clockwise
- Keep Kaaba on your left
- Perform 7 circuits
Important Sunnahs
- Men uncover right shoulder (Idtiba)
- First 3 rounds brisk walking (Raml, if possible)
- Make dua and dhikr freely
Hajar al-Aswad
- If possible, kiss or touch
- Otherwise, point towards it (Istilam)
After Tawaf
- Pray 2 rak’ahs (near Maqam Ibrahim if possible)
- Drink Zamzam water
- Make dua
4. Sa’i (Safa and Marwah)
Sa’i involves walking between Safa and Marwah 7 times.
Steps:
- Start at Safa
- Face Kaaba and make dua
- Walk to Marwah
- Count 1 lap (Safa → Marwah)
- Complete 7 laps total
Important Notes
- Men jog between green lights
- Women walk normally
- No fixed duas—make personal supplications
5. Halq or Taqsir (Final Step)
After Sa’i:
- Men:
- Shave head (best) OR trim hair
- Women:
- Cut a small portion of hair
Completion of Umrah
After cutting hair:
- Ihram restrictions end
- You can wear normal clothes
- Your Umrah is complete 🎉
Important Tips
- Stay patient in crowds
- Keep your belongings safe
- Focus on عبادت (worship)
- Avoid pushing others
Bonus Tip (Multiple Umrah)
If performing another Umrah:
- Exit Haram boundary
- Re-enter Ihram from places like Masjid Aisha
Best Umrah Travel Insurance (What to Look For)
When choosing a policy, look for:
1. Medical Coverage
Emergency hospital treatment and doctor visits
2. Trip Cancellation Protection
Refunds if your trip is canceled
3. Baggage Protection
Compensation for lost or delayed luggage
4. Emergency Evacuation
Critical for serious health situations
Personal Injury & Legal Awareness
In rare cases, accidents may happen during travel or transportation.
You should know:
- You may be eligible for compensation claims
- Travel insurance often covers legal assistance
- Keep all documents (tickets, receipts, reports)
Final Words
This step-by-step Umrah guide ensures you perform each ritual correctly with ease and confidence. The key is sincerity, patience, and devotion throughout your journey.