Performing Umrah is a beautiful act of worship, and Islam gives every believer the opportunity to fulfill it—regardless of physical ability. Thanks to major accessibility upgrades in Makkah and Madinah, pilgrims who use wheelchairs can now complete Umrah safely, comfortably, and with full dignity.
This step-by-step guide explains wheelchair routes, services, rules, rentals, tips, costs, and 2025 updates for pilgrims with mobility challenges.
Can You Perform Umrah in a Wheelchair?
Yes. Umrah is valid and fully accepted when performed in a wheelchair. The steps remain the same, and the rewards are the same.
Scholars agree that a person with mobility limitations can perform Tawaf and Sa’i while seated or being pushed in a wheelchair.
Main Steps of Umrah in a Wheelchair
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Enter Ihram and make intention
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Recite Talbiyah
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Perform Tawaf using wheelchair routes
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Pray two rakats
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Drink Zamzam
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Perform Sa’i between Safa and Marwah
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Shave or trim hair
1. Ihram and Intention
What to Do
• Wear Ihram before crossing Meeqat
• Make intention in your heart
• Follow Ihram rules (no perfume, no cutting hair/nails, no marital relations)
Tip for Wheelchair Users
Choose loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy movement while seated.
2. Tawaf in a Wheelchair
Tawaf is performed on designated upper floors of Masjid al-Haram built for wheelchair users.
Wheelchair Routes for Tawaf
• Upper Mataf floors with smooth surfaces
• Wide lanes to avoid crowd pressure
• Staff available to assist
How It Works
• Start in line with the Black Stone marker
• Complete seven counterclockwise rounds
• Move at your own pace—no rushing
• Men do not need to uncover the right shoulder when seated
Can someone push you?
Yes. A family member or official porter can push the wheelchair.
Powered wheelchairs?
Electric wheelchairs are allowed in designated areas.
3. Praying Two Rakats
After Tawaf, wheelchair users may pray:
• Near Maqam Ibrahim (if accessible), or
• Anywhere inside the mosque where space is safe and comfortable
Your prayer is valid seated if standing is not possible.
4. Drinking Zamzam
Accessible water stations are located on upper floors. Ask staff if you need help.
5. Sa’i in a Wheelchair
Sa’i can also be completed entirely on accessible floors between Safa and Marwah.
Key Points
• The route is smooth and ramp-based
• Seven rounds start at Safa and end at Marwah
• Jogging between green lights applies only to men on foot—not wheelchair users
6. Shaving or Trimming Hair
This completes Umrah.
• Men: shave or trim
• Women: trim fingertip-length
Accessible barber stations and salons are available around the Haram.
Free Wheelchairs
• Available inside the Grand Mosque
• First-come, first-served
Paid Porter Service (Tawaf + Sa’i)
• Licensed helpers
• Fixed rates set by authorities
• Receipt provided
Electric Wheelchairs
• Available on upper floors
• Can be rented hourly or per ritual
Accessible Facilities in 2025
• Elevators to upper mataf floors
• Wide ramps and barrier-free zones
• Accessible washrooms
• Designated prayer areas
• Smooth flooring for mobility devices
• Crowd monitoring staff
Travel & Visa Tips for Disabled Pilgrims
• Mention mobility needs during visa or package booking
• Request airport wheelchair assistance in advance
• Book hotels close to Haram (300–500m range)
• Choose shuttle services with wheelchair ramps
Airports in Jeddah and Madinah offer:
• Free wheelchair transport
• Priority security lanes
• Assistance during boarding and baggage claim
Can You Perform Umrah Alone in a Wheelchair?
Yes, if you’re independent and confident. However, many pilgrims prefer:
• A family member
• A trained guide
• A porter service
This helps with navigation and crowd safety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Better Option |
|---|---|
| Going during peak hours | Choose late night or early morning |
| Using scented products | Stick to unscented items in Ihram |
| Avoiding help | Ask staff when needed |
| Rushing rituals | Move slowly and calmly |
Best Time for Wheelchair Users
• After Hajj season
• Weekdays
• Late-night Tawaf (less crowd)
FAQs
1. Is Umrah valid if someone pushes my wheelchair?
Yes. Your Umrah is fully valid and rewarded.
2. Can I rent a wheelchair in Makkah?
Yes. Manual and electric wheelchairs are available.
3. Are wheelchairs allowed on ground floor?
Due to crowd pressure, wheelchair users are guided to upper floors for safety.
4. Can children with disabilities perform Umrah?
Yes, with proper supervision.
Final Advice
Move at your own pace. Take breaks. Focus on worship, not speed. Allah rewards effort, sincerity, and patience. Umrah in a wheelchair is not a limitation it is a beautiful act of resilience and faith.