How to Perform Umrah: A Step-by-Step Guide (with Duas & Meaning)
Published on: 1/1/2025
A complete, beginner-friendly guide to the 4 essential pillars of Umrah: Ihram, Tawaf, Sa'i, and Halq. Includes Duas in English and Arabic.
Introduction: The Minor Pilgrimage
Umrah is a beautiful act of worship that purifies the soul. Unlike Hajj, it can be performed at any time of the year. This guide breaks down the entire journey into simple, actionable steps.
Step 1: Ihram (The Sacred State)
Ihram is not just the white cloth; it is a state of intention (Niyyah). Men must wear two unstitched white sheets, while women can wear any modest clothing that covers the entire body except the face and hands.
Niyyah for Umrah: 'Allahumma labbayka 'umrah' (O Allah, here I am to perform Umrah).
Step 2: Tawaf (Circumambulating the Kaaba)
Upon entering Masjid al-Haram, proceed to the Mataf area. You will circle the Kaaba 7 times anticlockwise, starting from the Hajar al-Aswad (Black Stone).
Step 3: Sa'i (Walking between Safa and Marwah)
After Tawaf, drink Zamzam water and proceed to the hills of Safa and Marwah. You will walk back and forth 7 times, acting in the memory of Hajar (AS).
Step 4: Halq or Taqsir (Shaving or Trimming)
To exit the state of Ihram, men must shave their head (Halq) or trim their hair (Taqsir). Shaving is preferred. Women must cut a small fingertip length of hair from the end of their braid.