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

Umrah is a sacred pilgrimage to Makkah that holds immense spiritual significance in Islam. While it is not obligatory like Hajj, it is highly recommended and serves as a means of earning immense rewards and purification of sins. Unlike Hajj, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year. If you are planning to embark on this spiritual journey, here is a comprehensive guide on how to perform Umrah.

1. Understanding the Significance of Umrah

Umrah is often referred to as the "lesser pilgrimage" compared to Hajj. However, it holds great rewards and benefits for Muslims who undertake it with sincerity and devotion. The pilgrimage consists of several important rituals that symbolize submission to Allah and seek His mercy and blessings.

2. Preparing for Umrah

Before traveling to Makkah, it is essential to make the necessary preparations:

• Spiritual Readiness: Ensure you have pure intentions (Niyyah) and seek forgiveness from Allah for past sins.

• Visa and Travel Arrangements: Obtain an Umrah visa, book flights, and arrange accommodations in Makkah and Madinah.

• Financial Preparation: Budget for travel expenses, accommodations, meals, and any additional costs.

• Health and Hygiene: Ensure you are in good health and pack essential personal items such as Ihram garments, comfortable footwear, and hygiene products.

3. Entering the State of Ihram

Ihram is a sacred state that every pilgrim must enter before performing Umrah. It involves:

• Purification: Perform Ghusl (ritual purification) and wear the prescribed Ihram garments:

  • Men: Two white, unstitched pieces of cloth.

  • Women: Modest clothing that covers the body except for the face and hands.

• Intention (Niyyah): Declare your intention to perform Umrah by reciting: “Labbayk Allahumma Umrah” (O Allah, I respond to Your call for Umrah).

• Talbiyah: Continuously recite the Talbiyah: “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka La Shareeka Laka Labbayk, Innal-Hamda Wan-Ni‘mata Laka Wal-Mulk, La Shareeka Lak.”

4. Performing Tawaf (Circumambulation of the Kaaba)

• Upon arriving at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, proceed to the Kaaba and begin Tawaf.

• Tawaf consists of seven counterclockwise circuits around the Kaaba, starting from the Black Stone (Hajr al-Aswad).

• If possible, touch or kiss the Black Stone, otherwise, simply point towards it and say “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar.”

• After completing seven rounds, perform two Rak’ahs of prayer near Maqam Ibrahim and drink Zamzam water.

5. Performing Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwah)

• Proceed to Safa and make du’a before starting.

• Walk between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times, beginning at Safa and ending at Marwah.

• Men are encouraged to lightly jog between the two green markers, while women walk at a normal pace.

• After completing Sa’i, make a heartfelt du’a for acceptance of your Umrah.

6. Shaving or Trimming the Hair (Tahalul)

• Men must shave (recommended) or trim their hair.

• Women should trim about an inch from the end of their hair.

• After this step, you exit the state of Ihram, and your Umrah is complete.

7. Visiting the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah (Optional but Recommended)

Although not part of Umrah, many pilgrims visit Madinah to offer prayers at Masjid an-Nabawi and pay respects to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This is a highly rewarding act and a spiritually uplifting experience.

Final Thoughts

Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey that requires preparation, sincerity, and devotion. It is an opportunity to seek forgiveness, increase in faith, and renew one’s connection with Allah. May Allah accept your Umrah and grant you the blessings of this sacred journey. Ameen.