How to Perform Umrah Step by Step – Complete Guide for Beginners

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How to perform Umrah step by step

Every year, millions of Muslims from across the globe travel to the holy city of Makkah with one heartfelt desire — to perform Umrah. Unlike Hajj, which has fixed dates, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year. Because of this flexibility, many people prefer to plan their journey when they are physically, emotionally, and financially ready.

But a common question that arises in every traveler’s mind is: How exactly do you perform Umrah? It sounds simple, yet for someone going the first time, the sequence of rituals can feel overwhelming. In this guide, I’ll explain everything step by step in a very practical way, so that even if you have never been before, you’ll have a clear roadmap of what to expect.

Perform Umrah Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing Yourself Before Ihram

The journey of Umrah doesn’t start at the airport; it actually begins at home. Before you even leave for Saudi Arabia, it’s essential to prepare yourself mentally and spiritually. Spend a few days focusing on prayer, asking forgiveness from family and friends, and making dua that your trip is accepted. 

When you board your flight, you should already be in the mindset of a guest of Allah.  The most important part of preparation is entering the state of Ihram. Ihram is not just about clothing, it’s about intention.

  • For Men: Two simple white sheets are worn — one wrapped around the lower body and the other draped across the upper body. No stitched clothing, caps, or socks should be worn.
  • For Women: There is no specific color or style; modest clothing that covers the body is acceptable. The face and hands remain uncovered.

Before wearing Ihram, take a shower, trim your nails, and put on some perfume (for men only). Once you cross the Miqat — the boundary point around Makkah — you make your intention for Umrah by reciting the Talbiyah: Labbaik Allahumma Umrah (“Here I am, O Allah, for Umrah”).

Step 2: Entering Masjid al-Haram and Starting Tawaf

When you finally step inside Masjid al-Haram, the view of the Kaaba will most likely overwhelm you. Many people break into tears, while others stand silently in awe. Take a few moments to make dua, because this is one of the most special moments of your life.
The first ritual inside the Haram is Tawaf, which means walking around the Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction

  • Start from the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad). If you can’t touch it, simply raise your hand towards it.
  • Walk calmly, avoiding pushing or rushing.
  • Each round, recite any dua, Qur’anic verses, or personal prayers that come to your heart. There is no fixed wording.

After completing seven rounds, pray two units of Salah near the Maqam Ibrahim if space allows. If it’s crowded, you can offer the prayer anywhere in the mosque.

Step 3: Drinking Zamzam

After Tawaf, one of the most refreshing acts is drinking Zamzam water. The water comes from a blessed well inside the Haram, and it has been flowing for thousands of years. Drink it with the intention of healing, blessings, and strength to continue your rituals.

Step 4: Sa’i Between Safa and Marwah

The next step is called Sa’i, which is walking between the two hills of Safa and Marwah seven times. This ritual commemorates the struggle of Hajar (RA), the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), when she ran in search of water for her son, Prophet Ismail (AS).

  • Begin at Safa. Face the Kaaba, raise your hands, and make dua.
  • Walk towards Marwah and that counts as one. Coming back to Safa counts as two. You continue until you complete seven trips.
  • Men jog lightly between the two green markers, but women continue walking normally.

Though physically tiring, this ritual is deeply spiritual. It teaches patience, struggle, and trust in Allah’s mercy.

Step 5: Cutting or Shaving the Hair

The final step to complete Umrah is cutting or shaving your hair.

  • For men: Shaving the head is considered the best act, but shortening the hair is also acceptable.
  • For women: Only a fingertip-length portion of hair is cut.

This simple act represents humility and the completion of your Umrah journey. Once your hair is cut, you are out of Ihram, and all restrictions are lifted.

The Spiritual Meaning Behind Umrah

Umrah is not just about going through the motions. Each step carries deep symbolic meaning. Ihram represents purity and equality before Allah. Tawaf symbolizes unity, as people from all nations circle the Kaaba together. Sa’i teaches us the importance of effort and hope, while shaving or cutting hair reflects renewal and humility.
When performed with sincerity, Umrah becomes more than a trip; it becomes a life-changing experience. Many people return with a softer heart, more gratitude, and stronger faith.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Umrah

  • Plan ahead: Book flights and accommodation early, especially during busy seasons like Ramadan.
  • Stay hydrated: Makkah can get extremely hot, so carry a small water bottle.
  • Avoid rush hours: If possible, perform Tawaf at less crowded times — late night or early morning.
  • Stay patient: Crowds can test your nerves. Remember, patience is part of the worship.
  • Focus on prayer: Don’t waste time on shopping or sightseeing during your short stay.

Conclusion

Performing Umrah is one of the most beautiful acts of devotion a Muslim can experience. From the moment you wear Ihram to the last step of cutting your hair, every ritual connects you to the history of the prophets and the legacy of faith.

If it’s your first time, remember this: Umrah is not about perfection, it’s about intention. Even if you forget a dua or feel nervous, stay sincere, stay humble, and let your heart remain connected to Allah.