Umrah Journey: Step by Step from the Heart
Your interactive guide to learning the pillars, duties, and Sunnahs of Umrah with ease and tranquility, with a detailed explanation of each ritual.
Ihram
The starting point for your spiritual journey. Ihram begins at the Miqat, where the pilgrim wears the Ihram garments, preparing heart and soul to meet Allah.
Purification
Intention at Miqat
Praying 2 Rak'ahs
Wearing Ihram
Labbayk Allahumma Umrah
Tawaf
Upon reaching the Kaaba, stop reciting Talbiyah and begin your Tawaf, which is the greeting to the Grand Mosque, provided you have Wudu (purification). You must complete seven full circuits, starting and ending at the Black Stone, keeping the Kaaba on your left at all times. For men, it is Sunnah in this Tawaf to do 'Idtiba' (uncovering the right shoulder) and 'Raml' (walking briskly during the first three circuits only). Conclude your Tawaf by praying behind the Station of Ibrahim, then drink Zamzam water with the intention of healing and well-being before moving on to Sa'i.
07 Circuits
Complete and continuous unless excused
Raml & Idtiba
For male pilgrims in the first 3 circuits
Purification
Condition for valid Tawaf
Tip for Pilgrim
Keep your gaze forward, do not get distracted by photography, feel the greatness of the place, and watch your heart.
"Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina adhaban-nar"
Sa'i: Between Safa and Marwa
After Tawaf, the pilgrim heads to Mount Safa to begin the Sa'i of seven complete circuits ending at Marwa, recalling the story of Lady Hajar and her certainty in Allah's mercy.Each circuit begins by ascending Safa or Marwa, facing the Qiblah, and making much Takbeer, Dhikr, and Dua with whatever is easy from the good of this world and the Hereafter.It is Sunnah for men only to jog (Ramal/Harwalah) in the distance marked by the two green signs, while women walk at their normal pace throughout the distance.Ensure you do not allocate a specific dua for each circuit, and remember that going from Safa to Marwa counts as one circuit, and the return counts as a second circuit.
Safa
Start of each odd circuit
Marwa
End of each even circuit
Jogging between the two green signs
It is Sunnah for men only to jog lightly (Harwalah) in the distance marked by the green lights.
"Innas-Safa wal-Marwata min sha'a'irillah..."
Tahallul: Shaving and Trimming
Upon completing the Sa'i, you reach the final station that exits you from the state of Ihram and restores what was prohibited upon you. For men, it is Sunnah to shave the entire head, which is the best and most complete, or to trim the hair equally from all sides. As for women, they exit Ihram by clipping the length of a "fingertip" from the ends of their hair braids, while ensuring it is not uncovered in front of non-mahram men during Tahallul. With this act, you have completed your Umrah rituals, so rejoice in the good news and ask Allah to forgive your sins and accept your efforts.
For Men
Shaving (completely removing the hair), which is preferred.
Trimming (cutting a portion of hair from all over the head).
For Women
The pilgrim cuts the length of a 'fingertip' from the ends of her hair.
All the hair is gathered and cut together at once.
May Allah accept your obedience
By completing this step, you have fully completed your Umrah by the grace of Allah.
Common Mistakes & Golden Advice
Learn about the most common mistakes pilgrims make, and benefit from advice that will make your Umrah more complete and easier.
Mistakes Pilgrims Make
Excessive Photography During Rituals
Being preoccupied with photography distracts you from spiritual focus and disturbs fellow pilgrims. Feel the greatness of the place with your heart, not your camera.
Crowding to Reach the Black Stone
Kissing the Black Stone is a Sunnah, but harming pilgrims by shoving is forbidden. Pointing to it and saying 'Allahu Akbar' from afar is sufficient.
Forgetting Intention at the Miqat
Intention is an essential pillar; Ihram is invalid without it. Ensure you make your intention and Talbiyah before passing the Miqat by air or land.
Shaving or Cutting Hair Outside Designated Areas
Shaving or trimming must be done in designated areas within the Haram to ensure a valid exit from Ihram.
Crowding Between Men and Women During Tawaf
Mixing and pushing violates the manners of the Grand Mosque. Maintain calm, dignity, and respect others' personal space.
Tips & Advice for the Pilgrim
Be Sincere in Your Intention
Make your intention purely for Allah alone and feel the greatness of every pillar of Umrah.
Increase Supplication and Dhikr
Take advantage of being in the purest of places by making dua and repeating authentic supplications in every circuit.
Drink Zamzam Water with Good Intention
Make sure to drink Zamzam water and make dua near it, as Zamzam water fulfills the intention for which it is drunk.
Maintain Calm and Tranquility
Be patient and calm during Tawaf and Sa'i, and avoid raising your voice or pushing others.
Take Care of Your Health and Rest
Carry your medications, wear comfortable shoes, and drink regularly to avoid exhaustion in hot weather.