Performing Umrah is a dream for every Muslim. If you are travelling from Pakistan for the first time, this simple step-by-step Umrah guide will help you understand each ritual with confidence.
This is a simplified guide. Please attend an Umrah training session or consult a scholar for detailed rulings, especially for special situations.
The 4 Main Steps of Umrah
| Step | Ritual |
|---|---|
| 1 | Ihram (with niyyah and Talbiyah) before the Miqat |
| 2 | Tawaf: 7 circuits around the Kaaba |
| 3 | Sa’i: 7 rounds between Safa and Marwah |
| 4 | Halq or Taqsir: shaving or trimming the hair |
Step 1: Ihram
- Take a bath (ghusl), trim nails and clean yourself before travel.
- Men wear two white unstitched sheets; women wear modest normal clothes (face and hands uncovered).
- Make the intention (niyyah) for Umrah before crossing the Miqat. Flights from Pakistan usually announce when you are near the Miqat; many pilgrims wear Ihram before boarding.
- Recite the Talbiyah: “Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk, innal-hamda wan-ni’mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika lak.”
Step 2: Tawaf
- Enter Masjid al-Haram with your right foot and recite the dua for entering the mosque.
- Start Tawaf from the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad); touch, kiss or point towards it and say “Bismillahi Allahu Akbar”.
- Walk around the Kaaba 7 times anti-clockwise, keeping the Kaaba on your left.
- Men uncover the right shoulder (idtiba) during this Tawaf, and walk briskly (raml) in the first three circuits if possible.
- After Tawaf, pray 2 rakats behind Maqam Ibrahim (or anywhere in the mosque if crowded).
- Drink Zamzam water.
Step 3: Sa’i
- Go to Safa, face the Kaaba and make dua.
- Walk to Marwah (1 round), then back to Safa (2nd round), and so on, finishing at Marwah after 7 rounds.
- Men walk faster between the green lights.
- Make dua and dhikr throughout.
Step 4: Halq or Taqsir
Men shave the head (halq, preferred) or trim the hair (taqsir). Women cut about a fingertip length from the end of their hair. Your Umrah is now complete and the restrictions of Ihram end.
Things Not Allowed in Ihram
- Using perfume or scented soap
- Cutting hair or nails
- Men wearing stitched clothes or covering the head
- Women covering the face with niqab or wearing gloves (according to many scholars)
- Hunting, arguing or marital relations
Packing Checklist
- 2 sets of Ihram (for men) and comfortable slippers
- Unscented soap and toiletries
- Small bag for shoes
- Medicines and a small first-aid kit
- Copies of passport, visa and hotel booking
- Water bottle and umbrella for sun
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does Umrah take?
Tawaf and Sa’i usually take 2–4 hours depending on crowds.
Can women perform Umrah without a mahram?
Saudi rules have changed in recent years and scholars differ on the religious ruling. Check current Saudi visa rules and consult a scholar.
What is the best time for Umrah?
Umrah can be performed all year except during the Hajj days. Ramadan Umrah carries great reward but is very crowded.
Conclusion
Umrah is a beautiful spiritual journey. Learn the steps before you go, stay patient in the crowds and make plenty of dua. May Allah accept your Umrah. Ameen.