How to perform Umrah, step by step
Umrah is the lesser pilgrimage to Makkah, which can be performed at any time of year. It has four parts: entering ihram, tawaf around the Ka‘bah, sa‘i between Safa and Marwah, and cutting the hair. Here is each step, the rules of ihram, and practical notes for UK pilgrims.
Last updated: 4 October 2026
The virtue of Umrah
“One Umrah to the next is an expiation for what is between them” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1773), and “Umrah in Ramadan is equal to Hajj” in reward (Sahih al-Bukhari 1782).
How to perform Umrah, step by step
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1. Ihram | Before crossing the miqat (for UK pilgrims flying to Jeddah, usually on the plane before landing): ghusl, men put on the two white sheets, women wear modest everyday clothing, then make the intention for Umrah and begin the talbiyah. |
| 2. Tawaf | At the Masjid al-Haram, circle the Ka‘bah seven times anticlockwise, starting and ending at the Black Stone, making dhikr and du‘a. Men uncover the right shoulder (idtiba‘) and walk briskly in the first three rounds (raml). |
| 3. Two rak‘ahs | Pray two rak‘ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim if possible, or anywhere in the mosque, then drink Zamzam water. |
| 4. Sa‘i | Walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, starting at Safa and ending at Marwah, remembering Hajar’s search for water. Men jog lightly between the green lights. |
| 5. Halq or taqsir | Men shave the head (halq, more rewarded) or shorten the hair (taqsir); women cut a fingertip’s length from the end of their hair. Umrah is now complete and ihram restrictions end. |
What is forbidden in ihram
- Cutting hair or nails
- Using perfume or scented products
- Hunting
- Marital relations
- For men: stitched clothing and covering the head
- For women: face veil (niqab) and gloves
Preparing from the UK
- Learn the du‘as before you travel, especially the talbiyah and the dua for travelling.
- Improve your recitation: you will recite Al-Fatihah and surahs in tawaf and prayers; see surahs for salah.
- Check visas and vaccinations with your operator and the Saudi authorities’ current rules.
- Read up on Hajj if you are planning it later: Hajj step by step.
Frequently asked questions
What is the talbiyah?
“Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayk la sharika laka labbayk, innal-hamda wan-ni‘mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika lak” (Here I am, O Allah, here I am; You have no partner; all praise, blessing and sovereignty are Yours; You have no partner) (Sahih al-Bukhari 1549).
How long does Umrah take?
The rites themselves take around three to six hours, depending on crowds. Most UK packages are 7 to 14 days including time in Madinah.
What is the difference between Umrah and Hajj?
Umrah can be performed at any time of year and consists of ihram, tawaf, sa‘i and cutting the hair. Hajj is in Dhul-Hijjah, is obligatory once for those able, and includes ‘Arafah, Muzdalifah and Mina. See our Hajj guide.
Do I need a licensed travel agent?
Use a tour operator with ATOL protection and, ideally, one approved by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Check reviews and avoid unlicensed operators.
Prepare your recitation before you go
Three free one-to-one lessons in UK time: Al-Fatihah, short surahs and du‘as, checked by a teacher.