Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey that allows Muslims to visit the Sacred House of Allah in Makkah and perform specific acts of worship. While it is shorter and less complex than Hajj, first-time pilgrims often feel unsure about the correct steps, rules, and preparation. This guide explains Umrah clearly, step by step, to help you perform it with confidence and peace of mind.

What Is Umrah?

Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at any time of the year. It consists of a set of sacred rituals carried out in and around Masjid al-Haram. Although Umrah is not obligatory like Hajj, it holds great spiritual reward and is highly recommended for those who are able.

For many pilgrims, Umrah is also a way to prepare spiritually and practically before performing Hajj later in life.

Step 1: Entering the State of Ihram

The first step of Umrah is entering the state of Ihram, which begins at a designated boundary called the Miqat.

Key Points About Ihram

  • Men wear two unstitched white cloths.

  • Women wear modest, loose clothing with no specific color requirement.

  • Make the intention (niyyah) for Umrah.

  • Recite the Talbiyah: “Labbayk Allahumma Umrah.”

Once in Ihram, certain actions become prohibited, such as cutting hair, using perfume, or engaging in arguments.

Step 2: Performing Tawaf Around the Kaaba

After arriving at Masjid al-Haram, pilgrims perform Tawaf, which is walking around the Kaaba seven times in an anticlockwise direction.

How Tawaf Is Done

  • Begin from the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad).

  • Complete seven full circuits.

  • Make du’a and dhikr in any language.

  • Men uncover their right shoulder (Idtiba) during Tawaf only.

Tawaf is one of the core pillars of Umrah and must be completed correctly for Umrah to be valid.

Step 3: Praying Two Rak’ahs After Tawaf

Once Tawaf is complete, pilgrims pray two rak’ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim if space allows. If it is crowded, the prayer can be performed anywhere within the mosque.

This prayer is a Sunnah and marks the completion of Tawaf.

Step 4: Sa’i Between Safa and Marwah

Sa’i involves walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, commemorating the struggle of Hajar (AS).

Important Notes About Sa’i

  • Start from Safa and end at Marwah.

  • One round is counted from Safa to Marwah.

  • Men lightly jog between the green markers.

  • Du’a and remembrance are encouraged throughout.

Sa’i reflects patience, trust in Allah, and perseverance.

Step 5: Halq or Taqsir (Ending Umrah)

The final step of Umrah is cutting the hair:

  • Men either shave the head (Halq) or shorten it (Taqsir).

  • Women trim a small portion of hair (about a fingertip length).

After this step, the restrictions of Ihram are lifted, and Umrah is complete.

Preparing for Umrah as a First-Time Pilgrim

Proper preparation makes the journey smoother and more meaningful. Choose reliable guidance, learn the rituals in advance, and maintain a sincere intention. Many pilgrims prefer traveling with trusted providers like aqdas travel, especially when selecting suitable umrah packages that include accommodation and transport.

Those planning future pilgrimages may also want to understand how Umrah differs from hajj packages, as the obligations, timing, and rituals vary significantly.

Final Thoughts

Umrah is a journey of humility, worship, and closeness to Allah. By understanding each step clearly and preparing well, first-time pilgrims can focus on spirituality rather than confusion. Take your time, remain patient, and remember that sincerity matters more than perfection.

May Allah accept your Umrah and grant you ease in every step of the journey.