The Umrah
Step by Step
A comprehensive, beautifully curated guide to performing the lesser pilgrimage with spiritual excellence.
Umrah is a highly recommended act of worship in Islam. Unlike Hajj, it can be performed at any time of the year. This guide provides a simple yet comprehensive walkthrough of the rituals.
1 Ihram (The Sacred State)
Before reaching the Miqat (the boundary point), one must assume the state of Ihram. This involves physical purification (Ghusl), wearing the prescribed garments (two unstitched white cloths for men, modest clothing for women), and making the specific intention (Niyyah) for Umrah.
"Labbayk Allahumma Umrah"
— "Here I am O Allah, making Umrah."
2 Tawaf (Circumambulation)
Upon entering Al-Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah, you proceed to the Kaaba to perform Tawaf. This involves circling the Kaaba seven times counter-clockwise, starting from the Black Stone (Hajar Al-Aswad).
Key Sunnahs of Tawaf:
- Idtiba': Men uncover their right shoulder for the duration of the Tawaf.
- Raml: Men walk briskly during the first three circuits.
- Supplication: There are no fixed duas, but it is highly recommended to recite Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan... between the Yemeni Corner and the Black Stone.
3 Sa'i (Walking between Safa and Marwah)
After Tawaf and praying two Rak'ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim, you proceed to the hills of Safa and Marwah. Sa'i consists of seven circuits walking back and forth between these two hills, starting at Safa and ending at Marwah.
4 Halq or Taqsir (Shaving or Trimming)
The final ritual is cutting the hair. Men may either shave their head entirely (Halq) or trim it equally from all sides (Taqsir). Shaving is highly preferred. Women trim a small portion (about a fingertip's length) from the end of their hair.
Once the hair is cut, the state of Ihram ends, and all restrictions of Ihram are lifted. Your Umrah is now complete!