How to Perform Umrah: Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Pilgrims

Umrah is a pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed throughout much of the year, subject to official restrictions and the Hajj season. The essential rites are ihram, tawaf, sa'i and shaving or shortening the hair. This guide describes the commonly followed sequence; ask a qualified scholar about details specific to your circumstances.

Step 1: Prepare before reaching the miqat

The miqat is the boundary by which a pilgrim intending Umrah must enter ihram. The correct miqat depends on your route. Pilgrims arriving by air should confirm when the aircraft will cross the boundary and prepare in good time.

Make ghusl where practical, prepare appropriate clothing and learn the restrictions of ihram. Men ordinarily wear two unstitched ihram cloths; women wear modest permissible clothing without a prescribed uniform. Make your intention for Umrah and recite the talbiyah.

Step 2: Enter Masjid al-Haram respectfully

Upon arrival in Makkah, settle your belongings and follow the mosque's entry and crowd instructions. Keep your group meeting point and hotel details available. There is no need to rush into a congested area.

Step 3: Perform tawaf around the Ka'bah

Tawaf consists of seven circuits around the Ka'bah, beginning and ending in line with the Black Stone. Keep the Ka'bah to your left and move with the flow of pilgrims. You do not need to touch or kiss the Black Stone if doing so would cause crowding or harm.

Recite Qur'an, make du'a and remember Allah throughout tawaf. There is no compulsory unique supplication for every circuit. After completing seven circuits, pray two rak'ahs where safely possible and drink Zamzam if available.

Step 4: Perform sa'i between Safa and Marwah

Sa'i consists of seven lengths between Safa and Marwah. Starting at Safa and ending at Marwah, the journey from Safa to Marwah counts as one, and the return counts as two. Follow the marked route and any relevant guidance on the green-light section.

Step 5: Shave or shorten the hair

After completing sa'i, men shave their heads or shorten the hair in accordance with their religious guidance. Women trim a small amount of hair. This completes Umrah and releases the pilgrim from the restrictions of ihram.

What should I bring?

Carry your travel documents, necessary medication, comfortable footwear, a shoe bag, phone and charger, and drinking water where permitted. See our Umrah packing checklist.

Common first-time mistakes

• Crossing the miqat without entering ihram when intending Umrah.
• Assuming touching the Black Stone is necessary, even in dangerous crowds.
• Miscounting tawaf or sa'i circuits.
• Following unverified instructions instead of qualified guidance.
• Overexerting yourself in heat or dense crowds.

Planning your Makkah and Madinah journey

Compare hotel locations and the included transport before booking. Many pilgrims also visit Madinah, which is a separate visit and not part of the essential Umrah rites. Explore Umrah packages and Madinah travel guidance.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Umrah take? The rites themselves may take a few hours, but crowds, mobility and prayer times affect the duration.

Is Madinah required for Umrah? No. Umrah rites are completed in Makkah.

Can children perform Umrah? Families should consult appropriate religious guidance and plan for heat, fatigue and crowds.

Do I need an Umrah visa? Entry and visa rules depend on nationality, residency, travel dates and official Saudi policy. Check the current requirements.

This is an educational overview, not an individual religious ruling. Follow official crowd-control instructions and qualified guidance.