How to Perform Umrah – Step-by-Step Guide for Pilgrims
Basma Emaar Group – Making Your Sacred Journey Smooth and Stress-Free
Umrah is one of the most beautiful acts of worship a Muslim can perform. Unlike Hajj, it can be performed at any time of the year, and it holds great spiritual reward. This guide will take you step-by-step through the process, from preparation to completion, so you can perform Umrah with confidence and peace of mind.
1. Understanding Umrah
Umrah is a Sunnah pilgrimage to Makkah that includes specific rituals:
- Ihram (state of ritual purity)
- Tawaf (circling the Kaaba)
- Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah)
- Halq/Taqsir (shaving or trimming the hair)
2. Before You Travel
a) Spiritual Preparation
- Make sincere intention (niyyah) to perform Umrah solely for the sake of Allah.
- Learn the du’as and sunnah practices.
- Seek forgiveness and resolve disputes before departure.
b) Physical Preparation
- Get necessary vaccinations.
- Build your stamina with light walking daily.
c) What to Pack
- For men: 2 white unstitched pieces of cloth (Ihram), belt, sandals/slippers.
- For women: Modest, loose-fitting clothes (Abaya), hijabs, comfortable shoes.
- Travel documents: passport, visa, hotel & transportation confirmations.
- Unscented toiletries, small bag for Tawaf & Sa’i, prayer mat, water bottle.
3. Entering the State of Ihram
When & Where
- Wear Ihram before crossing the Miqat (the designated boundary).
- Perform ghusl (ritual bath) and wear Ihram clothing.
- Offer two rak’ahs of prayer (Sunnah).
Niyyah (Intention)
Say: “Labbayk Allahumma Umrah” (Here I am, O Allah, to perform Umrah).
Talbiyah
Recite frequently:
“Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka La Shareeka Laka Labbayk, Innal-Hamda Wan-Ni’mata Laka Wal-Mulk, La Shareeka Lak.”
4. Tawaf (Circling the Kaaba)
Steps
- Enter Masjid al-Haram with your right foot, saying the du’a for entering a mosque.
- Start from the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad) – if possible, kiss or touch it; if not, point towards it.
- Circle the Kaaba seven times counterclockwise.
- Between the Yemeni Corner and Black Stone, recite:
“Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah wa fil-akhirati hasanah wa qina ‘adhab an-nar.” - After seven circuits, pray two rak’ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim (if possible).
5. Sa’i (Between Safa and Marwah)
- Begin at Safa Hill – face the Kaaba, make du’a and praise Allah.
- Walk towards Marwah Hill – between the green markers, men should walk briskly (raml).
- Complete seven trips (Safa → Marwah is one, Marwah → Safa is two).
- Make du’a at each end.
6. Halq or Taqsir (Hair Removal)
- Men: Shave the head completely (Halq) or trim all hair evenly (Taqsir).
- Women: Trim a small portion (about an inch) from the end of their hair.
7. Completion
Once hair cutting is done, you are out of Ihram and your Umrah is complete. Spend time in worship, du’a, and reflection.
Tips from Basma Emaar Group
- Stay hydrated and wear comfortable footwear during Sa’i.
- Avoid pushing during Tawaf; patience brings more reward.
- Keep valuables safe and always follow Haram etiquette.
At Basma Emaar Group, we specialize in Umrah visa processing and comfortable, punctual transportation services so you can focus on worship while we handle the rest.
Contact us today to make your sacred journey smooth, stress-free, and memorable.