How Umrah Is Done
Introduction to Umrah
What Is Umrah?
Umrah is a sacred pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah that Muslims can perform at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which has specific dates. It is an act of spiritual cleansing and devotion, where Muslims seek Allah’s forgiveness and blessings. Although it is not obligatory like Hajj, Umrah holds immense significance in Islam and is considered a means of gaining immense rewards and spiritual renewal.
The Importance of Umrah in Islam
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) highly encouraged Muslims to perform Umrah as it is a way to erase past sins and attain closeness to Allah. A hadith states:
"The performance of Umrah is an expiation for the sins committed between it and the previous one, and Hajj which is accepted will receive no other reward than Paradise." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
This shows that Umrah is a great opportunity for believers to cleanse their souls, seek guidance, and reaffirm their faith.
Why Do Muslims Perform Umrah?
- Seeking Forgiveness – Umrah washes away sins, giving believers a fresh start.
- Spiritual Renewal – It strengthens faith and deepens one’s connection with Allah.
- Following the Sunnah – Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed Umrah multiple times, making it an act of devotion.
- Blessings and Rewards – Performing Umrah earns immense rewards and opens doors to Allah’s mercy.
- Unity and Brotherhood – Pilgrims from all over the world come together in worship, promoting unity among Muslims.
Difference Between Umrah and Hajj
While both Umrah and Hajj involve visiting the holy sites in Makkah, there are key differences:
- Hajj is obligatory for financially and physically capable Muslims once in a lifetime, whereas Umrah is voluntary.
- Hajj takes place on specific dates in Dhul-Hijjah, while Umrah can be performed at any time.
- Hajj has more rituals and takes several days, whereas Umrah can be completed in a few hours.
How Umrah Is Done – A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preparing for Umrah
Before embarking on this sacred journey, one must:
- Purify their intentions – Umrah should be performed solely for Allah’s sake.
- Plan travel and accommodation – Booking with a trusted Hajj and Umrah travel agency like Aldawah Travels ensures a smooth experience.
- Obtain an Umrah visa – Required for entry into Saudi Arabia.
- Learn the rituals – Understanding the steps beforehand makes the experience more meaningful.
- Prepare Ihram clothing – Special attire worn during Umrah (two white sheets for men, modest dress for women).
2. Entering the State of Ihram
Ihram is a sacred state of purity required before starting Umrah. It involves:
- Wearing Ihram – Men wear two unstitched white sheets, while women wear modest clothing covering the entire body except for the face and hands.
- Making the Intention (Niyyah) – Pilgrims recite:
"Labbayka Allahumma Umrah" (O Allah, here I am to perform Umrah).
- Reciting the Talbiyah – A special supplication repeated frequently:
"Labbayka Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka La Sharika Laka Labbayk, Innal Hamda Wanni’mata Laka Wal Mulk, La Sharika Lak."
3. Performing Tawaf (Circling the Kaaba)
Upon reaching Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, pilgrims perform Tawaf, which includes:
- Walking around the Kaaba seven times counterclockwise.
- Starting at the Hajar al-Aswad (Black Stone) and saying Bismillah Allahu Akbar before touching or pointing towards it.
- Making dua and dhikr throughout Tawaf.
- Praying two rak’ahs of Salah at Maqam Ibrahim after Tawaf.
4. Performing Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwah)
- After Tawaf, pilgrims perform Sa’i, which involves walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
- It commemorates Hajar’s search for water for her son, Prophet Ismail (AS).
- Pilgrims recite duas and supplications throughout Sa’i.
5. Cutting or Shaving the Hair (Tahallul)
- Men shave their heads completely or trim their hair.
- Women cut a small portion of their hair.
- This symbolizes humility and submission to Allah.
6. Completing Umrah
After cutting the hair, the pilgrim is officially out of Ihram, and Umrah is complete. They can now resume normal activities and continue worship in the holy land.
Features of Umrah
- Can Be Performed Anytime – Unlike Hajj, Umrah is not restricted to specific dates.
- A Shorter Journey – Can be completed in a few hours, making it ideal for those who cannot perform Hajj.
- Spiritual Cleansing – Acts as an expiation for past sins.
- Flexible Packages – Various Umrah packages are available to suit different budgets.
- Deep Connection With Allah – A chance to seek forgiveness and spiritual upliftment.
FAQs – How Umrah Is Done
Yes, but it is recommended to book through an authorized Hajj and Umrah travel agency for a hassle-free experience.
Umrah can be done any time, but off-peak months (before or after Ramadan) offer less crowding.
Yes, an Umrah visa is required for international pilgrims.
Typically, 4 to 6 hours, depending on crowd levels.
Women below 45 need a Mahram, but those above 45 can travel in groups.
By learning the rituals, packing essentials, and maintaining a pure intention.
No, Umrah is optional but highly recommended in Islam.
Yes, but it depends on your visa type and government regulations.
Pilgrims recite Talbiyah, Surah Fatiha, and personal supplications throughout.
Most minor mistakes can be corrected by performing additional acts of worship.
It varies based on travel, accommodation, and Umrah packages.
Mostly, but women do not shave their heads — they only trim.
It’s advisable to clear debts first, but if manageable, Umrah is permissible.
Yes, but they must be accompanied by a guardian.
Men wear Ihram, while women wear modest clothing covering the body.
Conclusion
Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey that offers immense rewards and closeness to Allah. Whether you are planning your first Umrah or have performed it before, understanding how Umrah is done ensures a smooth and fulfilling experience. At Aldawah Travels, we provide affordable Umrah packages tailored to your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you embark on this blessed journey!
