Have you decided to go for Umrah this year? That’s awesome!

Remember, you’re one of the lucky ones chosen by Allah (SWT) for this honour, so don’t take it for granted. Give thanks to Allah (SWT) for giving you this opportunity and making it possible for you to go. Now that you’re ready to go, it’s time to get prepared for the journey of a lifetime. Before embarking on your Umrah journey, consider investing in Sadaqah Jariyah, such as donating towards a mosque, a well, or an educational project—charitable acts that will continue to bring you rewards long after your pilgrimage is complete, InshaAllah. To make sure you get the most out of your Umrah, it’s important to understand the proper way to do it. Learn how to perform Umrah step by step with this guide. It consists of all the information you need to know before heading to Makkah for your spiritual journey. So, don’t wait and check it out!

Umrah Preparations

Performing Umrah is a sacred journey, a spiritual retreat filled with deep connection and submission to Allah. It requires not only physical readiness but also spiritual and emotional preparation. This guide outlines essential steps for you to ensure you are fully prepared for this blessed journey.

Make a Sincere Intention

The first step in preparing for Umrah is to make a firm and sincere intention (Niyyah) to undertake this pilgrimage solely for the sake of Allah (SWT). Be sure that your intention is pure, seeking Allah’s pleasure and spiritual fulfilment.

Repent for Past Sins

Before setting off on this holy journey, it’s important to purify yourself by repenting for any past sins. Ask Allah (SWT) for forgiveness with a sincere heart and resolve to abstain from these sins in the future. This pilgrimage is an opportunity to cleanse your soul and can also bring key benefits to one’s self.

Ensure Halal Earnings

It is critical to finance your Umrah journey using halal earnings. Your pilgrimage should be free of any doubtful or prohibited sources of income, as this will ensure the purity of your spiritual experience.

Make Up for Missed Obligations

Take stock of any missed prayers, fasting during Ramadan, or unpaid Zakat. Resolve to either make up for them before your departure or commit to fulfilling them upon your return.

Seek Forgiveness from Others

Clear your heart by seeking forgiveness from anyone you may have wronged—whether it’s your parents, relatives, friends, or acquaintances. This act of humility will lighten your heart and help you focus more on your pilgrimage.

Prepare a Will

As part of your preparation, write a will and have it signed by two adult witnesses. This will clearly outline your wishes in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Hand the will over to a trusted lawyer or close relative.

Disconnect from Worldly Attachments

Embark on this journey with a feeling of detachment from the material world. Prepare mentally and emotionally to focus on your devotion to Allah, leaving behind worldly distractions and attachments.

Study the Rituals of Umrah

Ensure you have a thorough understanding of how to perform the rituals of Umrah. Familiarise yourself with the steps, the significance behind each act, and the prayers to recite during the pilgrimage.

Immerse Yourself in the Spirit of Worship

Umrah are acts of love and submission to Allah (SWT). Begin to immerse yourself in this spiritual atmosphere by regularly engaging in worship, reading the Qur’an, and doing Dhikr (remembrance of Allah (SWT)).

Get Physically Ready

Umrah can be physically demanding. Prepare your body by maintaining a balanced diet, exercising, and getting used to a routine of sleeping early and waking up early, which aligns with the schedule during the pilgrimage.

Learn the Duas and Zikr

Start memorising the necessary Duas (supplications) and Dhikr that you will need during the pilgrimage. Having these prepared will help you perform the rituals more smoothly and with greater focus.

Make Arrangements for Dependants

If you have dependents, make appropriate arrangements for their care during your absence. Ensure that they are well provided for while you are away on your journey.

Settle Debts

Before embarking on Umrah, it’s important to make arrangements for any outstanding debts to be paid off. This will free you from any financial worries during your pilgrimage.

Medical Preparations

As per Saudi regulations, get vaccinated for Meningitis, Polio, and Flu. These vaccinations are mandatory, and it’s wise to complete them well before your departure to avoid any delays.

Check Your Passport

Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity from your departure date. It’s also a good idea to keep a few photocopies of your passport and other essential travel documents for safety.

Prepare Medicines and Prescriptions

If you take medications, make sure they are sealed and accompanied by a prescription inside. Some medicines may be subject to checks at the airport or during your stay.

Prepare Finances

Carry a sufficient amount of Saudi Riyals along with your credit cards for any purchases or emergencies during your trip. It’s advisable to budget your trip and have easy access to funds.

1. Ihram

One of the unique things about Ihram is that it makes everyone equal. Rich or poor, it doesn’t matter, everyone wears the same clothes. But, keep in mind, Ihram also comes with some restrictions you should be aware of before you go:

• Men can’t shave or cut their nails
• Men should avoid wearing clothes with stitching or weaving. On the other hand, for women, fully white or black clothing that fully covers their body except their face and hands is their Ihram. They can wear stitched clothes during Umrah.
• Women should keep their bodies covered except their face and hands.
• No scent allowed, including perfumes, deodorants, aftershaves, and scented soaps. You’ll be provided with unscented soaps to use during your trip.
• Sexual activities are not allowed.
• Pilgrims are not allowed to hunt animals or cut plants or trees.

When travelling by air, it’s important to enter the state of Ihram before crossing the Miqat that applies to you. If you’re on Saudi Airlines, they’ll make an announcement about the Miqat at the appropriate time before reaching Makkah. It’s advisable to wear Ihram clothes at home and delay the Niyyah until you’re close to the Miqat while on the aeroplane. Perform ghusl or wudhu before putting on Ihram clothing, then recite Talbiyah when you’re close to your applicable Miqat.

At the Miqat, the pilgrim must make the intention and recite the words:

“Labbayk Allaahumma bi ‘Umrah”
(Here I am, O Allah, for ‘Umrah)

After this, you should recite the Talbiyah, in line with the Sunnah:

“Labbayka Allaahumma labbayk, labbayka laa shareeka laka labbayk. Inna al-hamd wa’l-ni’mata laka wa’l-mulk, laa shareeka lak”

(Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, you have no partner, here I am. Verily all praise and blessings are Yours, and all sovereignty, you have no partner).”

After reciting Talbiyah, you’ve entered the state of Ihram and are a Muhrim.

It is advised that you keep reciting the Talbiyah from the moment you enter Ihram until you get to the performance of the Tawaaf.

2. Tawaf Al-Umrah

Preparation

To perform Tawaf, you must be in a state of wudhu, with no impurities. If your wudhu ends during Tawaf, perform ablution again and continue from where you left off. Wear Ihram clothing, which should be clean and pure. Men should cover their body between the navel and knees and women should cover their entire body except for their hands and face.

Starting Point

How to Make Umrah Niyyah

It is essential for pilgrims to understand that the Niyyah (intention) for Umrah or entering into a state of Ihram must be made before crossing one of the Miqats (designated boundaries). Niyyah refers to the inner intention to perform an act of worship, and it should be followed by reciting the Talbiyah, a special supplication that pilgrims continue to recite until they arrive at Masjid Al-Haram.

Miqats are specific locations or boundaries prescribed by the Prophet (SAW) where pilgrims must enter into Ihram when embarking on Umrah. There are five Miqat locations in total, and the one that applies to you depends on your travel route. Below are the five Miqat locations:

1. Rabegh or Al-Juhfah – For those travelling from the West, Syria, Egypt.
2. Yalumlum – For those travelling from Pakistan, India, or Yemen.
3. Abyar Ali or Dhul-Hulaifah – For those travelling from Madinah.
4. Qarn-Al-Manazel – For those travelling from Taif and Najd.
5. Dhatul-Irq – For those travelling from Iraq.

When making your Niyyah for Umrah, it’s not enough to simply hold the intention in your heart; you should also recite the words of intention out loud. You can choose to recite any of the following three supplications to formally make your Niyyah:

“Labbayk allahumma Umratan”

(O Allah! Here I am to perform Umrah.)

“Allahumma Inni uridu l—umrata”

(O Allah! I intend to perform Umrah.)

“Allahumma Inni uridu l-umrata fa yassirha li wa taqabbalha minni.“

(O Allah! I intend to perform Umrah, so please accept it and make it easy for me.)

To perform Tawaf, observe Idtiba by passing the upper sheet of Ihram under your right armpit. Start Tawaf at the corner of Kaaba where Hajr Al-Aswad is positioned, make Niyyah and recite.

“Bismillahi wallahu akbar, Allahumma imanan bika wa tasdiqan bika kitabika wa wafa’an bi ahdika wattaba’an li sunnati nabiyyika Muhammad (salallahu alaihi wasallam).”

Begin Tawaf by heading to your right, walk quickly in the first three rounds and avoid eating, drinking, or talking during Tawaf. Perform Tawaf with humbleness and respect for the Kaaba.

Dua to read during Tawaf

Recite supplications and duas during Tawaf for acceptance. Memorise and recite Arabic Sunnah duas and understand the meaning. The best dua to recite between Yamani corner and Hajr Al-Aswad is

“Rabbana atina fid dunya hasanah, wa fil akhirati hasanah, wa qina azab annar” (O Lord, grant us the best in the world and the next world, and protect us from hellfire). Complete each round by kissing, touching, or saluting the black stone (Hajr Al-Aswad) also known as Istilam.”

Salah Al-Tawaf

Perform two rakaah of Salah after completing Tawaf, ideally near Maqam-e-Ibrahim but it can be done anywhere in the Masjid if it is not possible.

Zamzam

After completing Tawaf, perform two rakaah of Salah and head to Zamzam well to drink water and make supplications. One recommended dua after drinking the water is:

“Allahumma inni as’aluka ‘ilman nafi’an, wa rizqan wasi’an, wa ‘amalan mutaqabbalan, wa shifa’an min kulli da’.”

3. Sa'i

Perform Sa’i by walking between Safa and Marwah hills seven times. Start by reciting when approaching the Safa hill “Inna s-safa wa l-marwata min sha’a’iri llah (i)”, then “Abda’u bima bad’allahu bih.” Upon reaching the Safa hill, recite “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa lillahi l-hamd.” When walking towards Marwah, men should run, and women should walk at a normal pace between the two sets of green fluorescent lights. Recite any supplications or duas you wish. Perform two rakaah of Salah after completing Sa’i.

When the pilgrim approaches the area of Sa’i (Masaa) and nears the hill of Safa, they should recite the following verse from the Qur’an to begin the Sa’i ritual:

“Verily, As-Safa and Al-Marwah (two mountains in Makkah) are of the symbols of Allah” (Surah Baqarah:158) and

“Nabda’u bima bada’a Allaah bihi”

(We start with that with which Allah started)

Once the pilgrim reaches the hill of Safa and climbs to a point where the Ka’bah is visible, you should face the Ka’bah, raise your hands, and make dua (supplication) to Allah (SWT). The pilgrim is free to ask for anything they desire. According to a hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would recite the following dua as praise:

“Laa ilaaha ill-Allah wahdahu laa shareeka lah, lahu’l-mulk, wa lahu’l-hamd, wa huwa ‘ala kulli shay’in qadeer. Laa ilaaha ill-Allah wahdah, anjaza wa’dah, wa nasara ‘abdah, wa hazamaa al-ahzaaba wahdah”

(There is no god but Allah alone, with no partner or associate; His is the Dominion, all praise is due to Him, and He is able to do all things. There is no god but Allah alone; he fulfilled His promise, granted victory to His slave, and defeated the confederates alone).” (Sahih Muslim, 1218)

After reciting the dua on Safa and supplicating, the pilgrim should repeat the process three times: recite Dhikr, make dua, recite Dhikr, and supplicate again, alternating between the two. Once this is complete, the pilgrim should descend from Safa and proceed toward Marwah.

For men, it is Sunnah to run briskly between the two green markers that indicate the specific distance for running. This area is marked by green lights. Men should run between these markers and then continue walking normally until they reach the hill of Marwah. Upon reaching Marwah, the pilgrim should climb up the hill, face the Qibla, and repeat the same dua and supplication that was recited on Safa.

After this, the pilgrim descends again and heads back to Safa, repeating the same actions as before. This process of moving between Safa and Marwah is called Sa’i, and it must be completed seven times. Each circuit is counted as one journey from Safa to Marwah or from Marwah to Safa. Thus, the seven circuits will begin at Safa and end at Marwah.

This ritual is an essential part of Umrah, symbolising the search of Siti Hajar for water for her son Ismail (AS), and should be performed with sincerity and focus.

4. Halq or Taqsir

To end the state of Ihram, you must perform Halq (shaving of the head) or Taqsir (trimming of hair). Men should shave their heads or trim hair to a length of a fingertip from all sides. Women should trim a fingertip length from the end of their hair. If you don’t have hair, just run a razor over your head to complete the ritual. Note that women are not allowed to perform Halq.

5. Ending Ihram

As you exit the state of Ihram, you can now change into regular clothes and resume activities that were previously restricted during Ihram, such as using perfume and cutting nails. However, if your Umrah is part of Hajj, sexual activity will remain forbidden until Tawaf al-Ziyarah. Remember to give thanks to Allah and seek forgiveness for any mistakes made during your Umrah.

FAQs

1. What Do You Recite during Umrah? During Umrah, there are several important recitations:

• Talbiyah: “Labbayka Allahumma labbayk…” is recited frequently, especially upon entering the state of Ihram and throughout your journey until you reach Masjid Al-Haram.
• Duas and Dhikr: You can recite any dua (supplication) from the heart during Tawaf (the seven circuits around the Ka’bah) and Sa’i (the walk between Safa and Marwah). Pilgrims often recite praises of Allah, ask for forgiveness, and make personal supplications.
• Tawaf Dua: There is no specific mandatory dua during Tawaf, but many pilgrims recite: “Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina ‘adhaban nar” (Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and save us from the punishment of the Fire).
• During Sa’i, recite Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and supplicate as you wish, following the recitations mentioned for Safa and Marwah.

2. How Long Does It Take to Complete Umrah?

Umrah can generally be completed within 3 to 5 hours, depending on the crowd and your pace. The main rituals include:

• Tawaf around the Ka’bah, which takes around 30-60 minutes.
• Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, which typically takes 45-90 minutes.
• Tahallul, the cutting or trimming of hair to complete Umrah, which takes only a few minutes.

Factors such as time of day, weather, and the number of pilgrims can affect the overall duration.