Another trip of pilgrimage is known as Umrah, which is also a pilgrimage done by the Muslims, to Holy Makkah, where Islam is prevalent, at the Holy city of Makkah which is in Saudi Arabia. AlNomadi Tourism renders all kinds of guidance and help to the Muslims who want to undertake the journey for Umrah, to travel, visas etc and guided tour packages. In this instance they are traveling to ask God for his mercy and to gain their strength in religion.
Do you want me to guide you on everything that you should do during this Umrah pilgrimage? This guide will tell you about all the steps that you should take while going to Umrah. It will be easy to understand even if you have never been to Umrah before or if you have been there. The Umrah guide will show you how to do all the Umrah rites and rituals.
Before you start your Umrah journey, it is a good idea to look at our complete list of Umrah Packages. Our Umrah Packages provide you with travel assistance and visa assistance. They also give you guided pilgrimage options. You can find useful information in our Umrah Packages that can help you if you want to go on an Umrah.
If you are getting ready for your umrah or helping someone else get ready for their umrah you need to know what to do at each step. The umrah is a deal and every step of the way is important. From the moment you enter into Ihram to when you recite the Talbiyah and then perform Tawaf and do the Sa’i and finally do the Halq, the umrah has a lot of meaning. Each part of the umrah has its rules to follow.
This guide covers:
- The four pillars of Umrah
- How to do Umrah step by step
- Essential duas with Arabic text
- Important Ihram rules
- Common mistakes to avoid
- Practical tips for first-time pilgrims
- Best time to perform Umrah
What to take with you before you go
Arrange your next trip with AlNomadi Tourism Umrah Packages for inexpensive and comfortable travel options from Dubai.
What is Umrah?
The Umrah is a fundamental concept within the Islamic life. It is a journey which is undertaken to the Masjid al-Haram, located within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. An individual, before performing the Umrah has to fulfil the following few pre requisites. Wearing Ihram, circumambulating the Kaaba, running seven times between Safa and Marwah and cutting or shaving of hair is a must.
Umrah differs from Hajj in that Umrah is optional for a Muslim and it does not have to be performed. Umrah has great spiritual significance for Muslims. Muslims have the freedom to perform Umrah whenever they choose. The majority of Muslims choose to perform Umrah as a form of seeking forgiveness from Allah and getting closer to Him.
In many ways, the pilgrimage is easier than Hajj since it allows for family pilgrimage, pilgrimages of the elderly travelers and pilgrimages of those who are performing it for the first time. Umrah pilgrimage is a shorter, although no less spiritual pilgrimage.
Learn more about what Umrah means in Islam in the section below.
Spiritual Meaning of Umrah
The Umrah is a special trip.It does not involve moving from point A to point B. The Umrah does not involve moving from one place to another. The Umrah is really about being devoted to God.
For Muslims seeing the Kaaba for the time is a really emotional experience that Muslims will always remember.
When people go on Umrah they usually feel really peaceful and happy and thankful. This is because people get to be from all the things that distract people from God when they are, on Umrah.
Some of the things about Umrah are:
Seeking forgiveness for sins
- Restoring faith and spirituality
- Building patience and humility
- Finding peace in oneself
- Feeling a sense of connection with Muslims globally
- More gratitude towards Allah
The Prophet Muhammad talked about the rewards of Umrah. He told believers to do Umrah whenever they can. A lot of Muslims save their money for a time just to go on this special trip to Umrah.
Umrah also teaches people to be disciplined and to treat everyone the same. When people wear Ihram clothes, the rich and poor look the same. This reminds everyone that all people are equal, in Allah’s eyes.
The 4 Pillars of Umrah
Understanding the pillars helps pilgrims clearly understand what are the steps of Umrah and why every ritual matters.
| Pillar | Description |
| Ihram | Entering the sacred spiritual state |
| Tawaf | Circling the Kaaba seven times |
| Sa’i | Walking between Safa and Marwah |
| Halq/Taqsir | Shaving or trimming the hair |
These four steps complete the Umrah ritual. If you miss any step your Umrah will not be valid. So it is essential to prepare
The steps are very important because they connect to the history and spiritual journey of Prophet Ibrahim, Hajra and Prophet Muhammad.
Things to Prepare Before Umrah
You need to get ready for Umrah. It is really important.It ensures that the whole process of the pilgrimage is carried out successfully. For now, most of those who have plans to go for a pilgrimage do not bother with preparations beforehand.
Documents Required before Departure
Prior to departing for umrah, ensure you have the following documents ready:
- Passport
- Umrah visa
- Flight tickets
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Vaccination certificate
- Emergency contacts
- Travel insurance documents
Keep digital copies on your phone and printed copies in a separate bag.
Physical Preparation
Umrah needs you to be ready to walk a way especially when you do Tawaf and Sa’i.
You should:
- Walk regularly before your trip
- Wear comfortable sandals
- Stay hydrated daily
- Get enough sleep before traveling
- Carry basic medicines
- Good physical preparation helps you perform the rituals comfortably.
Spiritual Preparation
Preparing for the rituals spiritually is just as important as preparation for the rituals.
Before departure:
- Learn the rituals properly
- Study important duas
- Solicit pardon from families and close relatives
- Commit to sincere intentions
- Perform extra prayers and recitations of the Quran
Some people also prepare personal duas before embarking on their journey for Umrah so that they will not forget anything while talking to Allah.
Step 1 – Entering the State of Ihram
The Umrah step is to get into the special state of Ihram before you get to Miqat.
What is Miqat?
Miqat is, like a border where you have to enter the state of Ihram before you go to Makkah for Umrah.
Important Miqat locations include:
- Dhul Hulayfah
- Juhfah
- Qarn al-Manazil
- Yalamlam
- Dhat Irq
Pilgrims traveling by air usually make an intention before the airplane crosses Miqat.
Detailed Guide on Wearing Ihram
Men wear two white unstitched sheets:
- One wrapped around the waist
- One covering the upper body
It is important that women dress modestly according to teachings.
They are free to wear clothes in any color long as they are loose.
The point of wearing Ihram is that it shows simplicity, humility and equality
For more information, the Ihram guide needs to be read.
Ihram for Men vs Women
| Men | Women |
| Two white cloths | Loose modest clothing |
| Head remains uncovered | Hair remains covered |
| No stitched clothing | Normal modest dress allowed |
| Sandals exposing ankles preferred | People can wear modest shoes. |
Making Niyyah (Intention)
When getting ready, for Umrah people make a Niyyah.
Arabic
لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ عُمْرَةً
Transliteration
Labbaik Allahumma Umrah
English Translation
“O Allah, here I am to perform Umrah.”
Reciting Talbiyah
After intention, pilgrims recite Talbiyah frequently.
Arabic
لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ، لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ
Transliteration
Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaika La Shareeka Laka Labbaik, Innal Hamda Wan Ni’mata Laka Wal Mulk, La Shareeka Lak.
English Translation
“Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Surely all praise, blessings, and dominion belong to You. You have no partner.”
Pilgrims continue reciting Talbiyah until reaching the Kaaba.
Important Rules during Ihram
While in Ihram, avoid:
- Cutting nails or hair
- Applying perfume
- Hunting animals
- Arguing or fighting
- Marital relations
- Wearing stitched clothing for men
These restrictions teach patience, self-control, and focus on worship.
Tips During Ihram
Helpful Ihram tips include:
- Carry safety pins for Ihram sheets
- Wear comfy sandals
- Keep soap and wipes
- Be patient in crowded places
- Keep remembering Allah often
The state of Ihram helps the pilgrim forget things and focus on worship. It makes them concentrate fully on their devotion to Allah.
Step 2 – Performing Tawaf
When you do Umrah the second thing you have to do is Tawaf, which means you walk around the Kaaba.
The Kaaba is really important. Walking around it is a big part of Umrah.
For a lot of people who go on this trip seeing the Kaaba for the time is something they will never forget.
Preparation for Tawaf
Before starting Tawaf:
1. Perform Wudu
2. Enter Masjid al-Haram respectfully
3. Recite entrance dua
4. Move calmly toward the Kaaba
Men uncover the right shoulder during Tawaf. This practice is known as Idtiba.
Pilgrims should be careful not to push others. They need to be patient, in areas.
How to Perform Tawaf
1. Begin at the Black Stone also known as Hajar al-Aswad.
2. Face the Kaaba
3. Lift your hand up towards the Black Stone.
4. Recite:
Arabic
بِسْمِ اللَّهِ، اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ
Transliteration
Bismillah, Allahu Akbar
English Translation
“In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest.”
5. When you are at the Kaaba you should walk around the Kaaba seven times. You have to do this in a counterclockwise direction.
6. The men are allowed to walk fast during the first three rounds, around the Kaaba if they are able to do so.
7. Each round begins and ends near the Black Stone.
Duas during Tawaf
There is no single required dua for every round. Pilgrims may:
- Recite Quran
- Make personal duas
- Do your dhikr.
- Ask Allah for forgiveness.
Between the Corner and the Black Stone a lot of pilgrims recite:
Arabic
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
Transliteration
Rabbana Atina Fid-Dunya Hasanatan Wa Fil Akhirati Hasanatan Wa Qina Adhaban Nar
English Translation
“Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter and save us from the punishment of the Fire.”
For a collection of prayers visit our guide, on Umrah duas.
Important things to remember during Tawaf:
Pilgrims should avoid pushing and shouting.
- They should also respect space.
- Respect personal space
- Focus on worship instead of photos
- Help elderly pilgrims when possible
Remain calm during crowds
The main thing about Tawaf is that it is about devotion and remembering Allah. We should not rush when we are doing Tawaf.
After Tawaf – Praying at Maqam Ibrahim
After completing seven rounds:
- Pray two rakats near Maqam Ibrahim if possible
- Drink Zamzam water
- Make sincere personal duas
Drinking Zamzam water is a beloved Sunnah and many pilgrims make heartfelt prayers during this moment.
Step 3 – Performing Sa’i
Sa’i is the important step in Umrah.
What is Sa’i?
Sa’i remembers the story of Hajra, who looked really hard for water for her son Ismail.
Pilgrims walk seven times between Safa and Marwah hills.
- Safa
- Marwah
When you go from Safa to Marwah that is one round.
The story tells Muslims to have faith, trust, in Allah and be patient when things get tough.
How to Perform Sa’i
1. Begin at Safa
2. Face the Kaaba and make dua
3. Walk toward Marwah
4. Men jog lightly between green markers
5. Continue until seven rounds are complete.
People who are making a pilgrimage often use this time for thinking and saying personal prayers.
Dua at Safa and Marwah
Arabic
إِنَّ الصَّفَا وَالْمَرْوَةَ مِن شَعَائِرِ اللَّهِ
Transliteration
Innas Safa Wal Marwata Min Sha’a’irillah
English Translation
“Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah.”
Duas During Sa’i
There is no compulsory fixed dua during Sa’i.
Pilgrims may:
- Ask Allah for forgiveness
- Make personal duas
- Recite Quran
- Perform dhikr
- Pray for family and loved ones
Many pilgrims prepare written lists of duas before their journey.
Important Tips during Sa’i
Helpful tips are:
- Wear shoes that’re easy on your feet
- Drink plenty of water
- Walk slowly and quietly
- Help family members
- Take breaks if you need to
The Sa’i area is air-conditioned today so it is more comfortable to do the Sa’i ritual.
Step 4 – Halq or Taqsir (Hair Cutting)
The final stage in how to perform Umrah step by step in Urdu and English is cutting the hair.
This ritual marks the completion of Umrah.
For Men
Men can choose between:
- Halq – completely shaving the head
- Taqsir – trimming hair evenly
Shaving the entire head is generally considered more rewarding.
For Women
Women trim a small portion of hair equal to fingertip length.
Women do not shave their heads during Umrah.
Completion of Umrah
After Halq or Taqsir:
- Umrah is officially complete
- Ihram restrictions end
- Pilgrims may return to normal activities
Many pilgrims feel emotional relief and happiness after completing the pilgrimage.
Best Time to Perform Umrah
Umrah can be performed throughout the year, but some periods are more comfortable and less crowded.
| Time | Benefits |
| Ramadan | Greater spiritual rewards |
| Winter months | Cooler weather |
| Off-season | Smaller crowds |
| School holidays | Easier family travel |
Ramadan is very popular since acts of worship during this holy month come with many bonuses. Unfortunately, there may be very crowded situations in Ramadan.
Most pilgrims choose winter months as the weather is relatively cool and walking is easy.
If peace is your aim, then you may wish to go in off-season months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Umrah
Pilgrims performing their first Umrah usually make some errors during their Umrah. Knowing them beforehand will make Umrah more comfortable for you.
Common Errors
- Forgetting the intention for Umrah
- Losing count during Tawaf or Sa’i
- Pushing near Hajar al-Aswad
- Wearing stitched clothing during Ihram for men
- Applying perfume while in Ihram
- Taking excessive photos during worship
- Skipping Wudu before Tawaf
- Arguments during busy times
These are essential for the whole course.
How to Avoid Difficulties
It is possible to minimize errors through:
- Researching rituals prior to traveling
- Travelling with experienced guides
- Carrying an Umrah guide book
- Being patient among crowds
- Concentration in worship
Always remember that sincerity counts more than accuracy.
Tips for First-Time Pilgrims
If you are going to Umrah for the time you should know some things. These things will make your trip to Umrah a lot easier.
You will find these tips for Umrah helpful. They are for people who are going to Umrah for the time.
Helpful Tips
- Learn rituals before departure
- Carry comfortable sandals
- Drink water regularly
- Avoid overcrowded times
- Keep emergency contacts saved
- Carry a small dua book
- Stay patient in long queues
- Sleep properly before rituals
- Make sure that your documents are secure.
Health and Safety Recommendations
Below are some recommendations for health and safety.
Crowds call for special attention to health and safety.
Crowds mean special attention should be paid to health and safety.
You should:
- Wash hands frequently
- Carry tissues and sanitizer
- Take prescribed medicines regularly
- Avoid dehydration
- Rest when feeling tired
Elderly pilgrims should avoid walking without breaks.
Emotional Preparation
The Umrah trip can be really emotional for a lot of people who go on it.
You may feel really overwhelmed when:
- You see the Kaaba for the time.
- When you hear the Adhan inside Masjid al-Haram.
- Making personal duas
- Praying among thousands of Muslims
Take your time. Really focus on worship.
Here is a list of things to pack:
Packing smart makes Umrah easier and more comfortable..
| Item | Purpose |
| Ihram clothes | Required for rituals |
| Unscented soap | Ihram-friendly hygiene |
| Comfortable sandals | Easier walking |
| Water bottle | Staying hydrated |
| Prayer mat | Prayer convenience |
| Power bank | Charging phone |
| Small backpack | Carrying essentials |
| Medicine kit | Basic health needs |
| Tissues and wipes | Hygiene during travel |
| Dua book | Easy supplications |
Additional Useful Items
Many experienced pilgrims also carry:
- Travel pillow
- Reusable water flask
- Light snacks
- Extra phone charger
- Neck pouch for documents
When you are getting ready to go on a trip try not to pack much stuff. This is because heavy luggage can become really hard to deal with.
Book Your Umrah Package from Dubai
Planning your journey is a lot easier when you have someone to help you. The Umrah Packages from Dubai are really helpful because they take care of everything for you. This includes getting your visa booking a hotel near the Haram, arranging transport and giving you guidance throughout your trip.
If you are traveling by yourself with your family or with a group of people the Umrah Packages from Dubai are made to make sure you are comfortable, do not spend much money and feel safe. This way you can just focus on your worship.
You can book your Umrah package from Dubai today. Get help from a travel company you can trust. This will make your pilgrimage to the Umrah really smooth, without any stress. It will be a great spiritual experience for you. The Umrah Packages, from Dubai are a way to make your spiritual journey easy and fulfilling.
Why Choose AlNomadi Tourism?
- Affordable Umrah packages
- Hotels near Haram
- Visa assistance
- Transportation support
- Group and family packages
- Experienced travel guidance
- Dubai departure options
- Customer support throughout the journey
For a lot of people who are going on a pilgrimage for the time Umrah Tours are a good idea because they make things easy for you.
They help you with a place to stay and getting around.
You can choose from fancy or family packages, whichever you like.
Check out the Umrah Tours from Dubai and get ready for a fulfilling spiritual experience, with Umrah Tours.
Final Thoughts
Learning about Umrah before you go is a help. It makes you feel ready and calm. When you know what to do you do not have to worry about what’s going on. You can just focus on Umrah.
Umrah is really something for Muslims. It helps Muslims get closer to Allah. When you first put on Ihram and say Talbiyah it is a deal. Then when you do Umrah every single thing you do is important. You do Tawaf you do Sa’i you do Halq and all of these things have a lot of meaning for Umrah. Umrah is an experience and it makes Muslims feel good to do Umrah.
So whether this is your time doing Umrah or you have done it before, try to do it with a good heart, be patient, humble and thankful. Use your time in Masjid al-Haram to pray, say sorry for your mistakes and get closer to Allah.
We Allah likes your Umrah forgives you for the things you have done and makes your trip safe and guides you. Ameen.
FAQs
What is the duration of Umrah?
The duration of Umrah ranges from hours. The duration may be anywhere between 2 to 6 hours. It depends on how congested it is. Besides, the time you spend circling Tawaf and Sa’i areas, depending on the speed at which you perform them, could even be much longer.
What is the number of circles that should be made around the Kaaba in Umrah?
Pilgrims perform the circular movement around the Kaaba seven times. The process is known as Tawaf.
Are women allowed to perform Umrah alone?
This depends on the policies of Saudi Arabia regarding travels. In some cases, they are allowed to travel alone while in others, they need a mahram.
What dua should I say when performing Tawaf?
There is no prescribed dua when performing Tawaf. You could recite the Quran, engage in dhikr or offer your own dua in whichever language you want.
Is shaving mandatory after Umrah?
Yes, men must shave or trim their hair, while women trim a small portion of hair. This completes the Umrah rituals.
Is there any particular time to do Umrah?
Umrah can be done any time during the year but not during restricted Hajj days. The off-season is preferred by many due to less crowd.
Can I do Umrah on my own without a guide?
You can do Umrah by yourself, but it’s recommended for beginners that you take a guided package.
Which actions are prohibited while performing Ihram?
It is recommended not to shave, wear perfumes, hunt, fight, or have sexual intercourse until Umrah is performed completely while observing Ihram.
How long does it normally take to complete the Sa’i ritual?
The duration of Sa’i usually takes from 40 minutes to 1.5 hours.
What is the difference between Hajj and Umrah?
Hajj is an obligation that should be completed once in a lifetime by qualified Muslims, while Umrah is optional and can be done at any time.