Have you ever stood under the night sky, gazed at the stars, and felt a deep longing to get closer to your Creator? That’s what many feel when thinking about Umrah—a sacred journey to the heart of Islam, Makkah.
But how do you actually perform Umrah?
If you’re asking this, you’re not alone. Thousands each year plan this spiritual trip but feel overwhelmed by what to do, what to say, and how to prepare. The good news? You’re about to get a simple, human-friendly guide.
Whether this is your first Umrah or you just need a refresher, this post walks you through every step—clearly and with personal insight.
Quick Summary
Ritual | What You Do | Quick Tip |
---|---|---|
Ihram | Wear white cloth, make niyyah | Say Talbiyah often |
Tawaf | Circle Kaaba 7 times | Start at Black Stone |
Maqam Ibrahim | Pray 2 rakats | Any quiet space is okay |
Zamzam | Drink and make du’a | Ask Allah for anything |
Sai | Walk 7 times between hills | Reflect on Hajar’s story |
Hair | Shave (men), trim (women) | End of Umrah |

What Is Umrah and Why Is It So Special?
Umrah is a pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Unlike Hajj, it can be done anytime during the year.
It’s a chance to:
- Wash away sins
- Renew your connection with Allah
- Ask for anything—hope, healing, forgiveness
Pro Insight: Many people say Umrah changed their life. It’s not just a trip—it’s a turning point.
Step-by-Step: How to Perform Umrah (2025 Updated Guide)
1. Prepare Yourself Spiritually and Mentally
Before you pack your bags, prepare your heart. Reflect. Make sincere intentions.
Niyyah (Intention): Say in your heart and mind,
“O Allah, I intend to perform Umrah. Accept it from me.”
Expert Tip: Keep your schedule light in the days before travel. Less stress = more focus on worship.
2. Enter the State of Ihram
What is Ihram?
Ihram is both:
A physical state: special clothing (2 white unstitched sheets for men, modest dress for women)
A spiritual state: pure heart, clean intentions
When and Where?
Meeqat is the boundary where you must enter Ihram.
For those flying in, the pilot usually announces when you’re close.
Pro Tip: Men, wear your Ihram before boarding. Airport bathrooms can be crowded and small.
3. Recite Talbiyah
Once in Ihram, begin saying:
Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaik Laa Shareeka Laka Labbaik. Innal-Hamda Wan-Ni’mata Laka Wal-Mulk, Laa Shareeka Lak.
Repeat it often. Whisper it in your heart. Let it sink in.
4. Perform Tawaf (Circling the Kaaba)
Tawaf means walking 7 times around the Kaaba counterclockwise.
Key Notes:
- Start from Hajar al-Aswad (Black Stone)
- Men should uncover the right shoulder
- Stay calm. It’s okay to go slow
Bolded Question: Can women perform Tawaf while menstruating?
No, women should delay Tawaf until they are pure.
Real Example: A sister shared how she cried through every round. “It felt like I was walking into Allah’s mercy.”
5. Pray Two Rakats Behind Maqam Ibrahim
After Tawaf, find a spot behind Maqam Ibrahim (or anywhere in Masjid al-Haram) and offer 2 units (rakats) of prayer.
Expert Tip: If it’s crowded, move to a peaceful corner. Your intention matters more than the spot.
6. Drink Zamzam Water
Drink from the blessed Zamzam well. Make du’a. You can ask for anything—health, peace, success.
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: “The water of Zamzam is for whatever it is drunk for.”
(Source: Ibn Majah)
7. Do Sai Between Safa and Marwah
Walk 7 times between Safa and Marwah hills, just as Hajar (AS) did in search of water for baby Ismail.
- Start at Safa, end at Marwah
- Jog gently between green lights (men only)
- Make dua throughout — this is a powerful time
Pro Insight: Many pilgrims say this is the most emotional part. It reminds you that Allah never leaves you alone in hardship.
8. Shave or Trim Your Hair
This marks the end of your Umrah.
Men: Shave (recommended) or trim hair
Women: Cut a fingertip-length of hair
You’re now out of Ihram.
Congratulations. You did it. You’ve just completed a beautiful act of worship.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Umrah
Mistake | What to Do Instead |
---|---|
Wearing perfume after Ihram | Use unscented items only |
Rushing through rituals | Go slowly, stay present |
Taking too many selfies | Focus on your heart, not your phone |
Getting angry in crowds | Stay calm, it’s part of the test |
Pro Tip: Patience is a form of worship during Umrah.
Also Read: How to Perform Umrah for Ladies Step by Step Guide
People Also Ask:
How Long Does Umrah Take to Complete?
Usually, it takes 4 to 6 hours, but it depends on crowd size and personal pace.
Do I Need a Guide to Perform Umrah?
Not necessarily. If you follow clear steps (like this guide), you can perform it easily on your own.
What Should I Pack for Umrah?
- Ihram garments
- Prayer mat
- Unscented toiletries
- Comfortable sandals
- Power bank
Can You Perform Umrah Multiple Times?
Yes, you can. Many pilgrims perform it more than once if they stay in Makkah for a few days.
Is Umrah Only for Adults?
Children can also perform Umrah if they can walk and understand the process. Parents may carry toddlers during Tawaf and Sa’i.
Emotional Tips for First-Time Pilgrims
Let Go of Perfection: It’s okay to forget a dua or feel nervous. Focus on your heart, not your performance.
Pack Patience: Crowds, delays, and tiredness are part of the experience. Stay calm—it’s all part of your test and reward.
Cry Freely: You’re not just walking around a building. You’re returning to the House of Allah. Let your emotions flow.
Essential Packing List for Umrah (2025 Edition)
Item | Reason |
---|---|
Passport + Visa | For travel entry |
Ihram | Required for men |
Unscented soap & wipes | Maintain Ihram purity |
Slippers | Comfort for Sa’i |
Small bag | For shoes during Tawaf |
SIM card or pocket Wi-Fi | Stay connected |
Dua booklet or app | For focus and remembrance |
Interactive Map of Key Umrah Locations
Add this section to your website with a Google Map embed.
- Kaaba (Tawaf start point)
- Maqam Ibrahim
- Zamzam Station
- Safa and Marwah
- Barber/Shaving Areas
This helps new pilgrims visually understand where to go inside Masjid al-Haram.
Women Tips for Umrah
- No specific Ihram garment — wear loose, modest clothes
- Tie hair back neatly and avoid perfumes
- Delay Umrah if in menstrual state — Tawaf requires purity
- Carry a small water spray & fan — helps with heat
Final Words:
Umrah is not just a ritual. It’s a journey of healing. A moment of surrender. A lifetime memory.
Walk each step with love, patience, and humility. You’ve been chosen.
FAQs About Performing Umrah
1. What are the main steps of Umrah in Islam?
The main steps are: enter Ihram, recite Talbiyah, perform Tawaf, pray behind Maqam Ibrahim, drink Zamzam, perform Sa’i, and shave/trim hair.
2. Can I perform Umrah without a travel agent?
Yes, you can book flights and hotels online, and follow a reliable guide like this one.
3. How much money is needed for Umrah in 2025?
Depending on travel class and duration, it may cost anywhere from $800 to $2000 per person.
4. Is a COVID-19 vaccine still required for Umrah?
As of 2025, most countries still require COVID-19 and meningitis vaccines. Check with your nearest Saudi embassy.
5. Can I wear perfume during Umrah?
No. Perfume is not allowed while in Ihram, even on the body or clothes.
Best Dua for Umrah
1. Dua for Intention (Niyyah) of Umrah
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أُرِيدُ الْعُمْرَةَ فَيَسِّرْهَا لِي وَتَقَبَّلْهَا مِنِّي
Allahumma inni ureedul-‘umrata fa-yassirha li wa taqabbalha minniTranslation: O Allah, I intend to perform Umrah, so make it easy for me and accept it from me.
2. Talbiyah (While in Ihram)
لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ، لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ
Labbayka Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka Laa Shareeka Laka Labbayk, Innal-Hamda Wan-Ni‘mata Laka Wal-Mulk, Laa Shareeka LakTranslation: Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Surely, all praise, blessings, and dominion are Yours. You have no partner.
3. Dua When Seeing the Kaaba
اللَّهُمَّ زِدْ هَذَا الْبَيْتَ تَشْرِيفًا وَتَعْظِيمًا وَمَهَابَةً وَرِفْعَةً
Allahumma zid haazal-bayta tashreefan wa ta‘zeeman wa mahaabatan wa rif‘ahTranslation: O Allah, increase the honor, reverence, awe, and elevation of this House.
4. Dua While Performing Tawaf (Between Rukn Yamani & Hajar al-Aswad)
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah, wa fil-akhirati hasanah, wa qina ‘adhaban-naarTranslation: Our Lord! Grant us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the torment of the Fire.
5. Dua While Drinking Zamzam Water
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا وَاسِعًا، وَشِفَاءً مِّن كُلِّ دَاءٍ
Allahumma inni as’aluka ‘ilman naafi‘an, wa rizqan waasi‘an, wa shifaa’an min kulli daa’Translation: O Allah, I ask You for beneficial knowledge, abundant provision, and healing from every illness.
People also ask
1. Which is the best month to perform Umrah in 2025?
The best month to perform Umrah in 2025 depends on your personal goals. However, Ramadan is considered the most spiritually rewarding time to perform Umrah, as the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“Umrah in Ramadan is equal to Hajj in reward.”
— (Sahih Bukhari)
In 2025, Ramadan is expected to fall between late February and late March (depending on moon sighting). If you are physically and financially able, performing Umrah in Ramadan offers immense blessings.
If you are looking for a less crowded, more affordable time, the months of Muharram (July–August 2025) or Safar (August–September 2025) are ideal. These are peaceful months with lower visa demand and moderate weather.
2. In which month is Umrah not allowed in 2025?
Umrah is not allowed during the Hajj season, which typically includes the first half of Dhul Hijjah — the 12th Islamic month. In 2025, Hajj will likely take place around late May to early June (depending on the Islamic calendar).
To be specific, from around mid-Shawwal to 13 Dhul Hijjah, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah usually suspends new Umrah visas to focus on Hajj arrangements.
So in May and early June 2025, Umrah will be temporarily paused during this short window. Visa services normally resume soon after Hajj ends.
3. How much is the Umrah ticket in 2025?
The cost of an Umrah ticket in 2025 varies depending on your country, airline, season, and departure city. Below are estimated one-way ticket prices to Jeddah or Madinah from popular countries:
Pakistan: PKR 120,000 – PKR 210,000 (economy class)
India: ₹40,000 – ₹70,000
UK: £500 – £900
USA: $900 – $1,300
Indonesia: IDR 7 million – IDR 12 million
During Ramadan, prices are usually higher due to demand, while off-season (e.g., after Hajj) offers cheaper rates.
It’s best to book 2–3 months in advance or look for group packages which may include airfare, visa, hotel, and transport at a reduced price.
- How to Stay Healthy During Umrah (Expert Tips You’ll Actually Use)
- How to Perform Ghusl for Umrah (Step-by-Step Guide for 2025)
- Best Time to Perform Umrah in 2025 – Weather, Crowds, and Rewards
- How Much Does Umrah Cost in 2025, Budget Breakdown (Visa + Ticket + Hotel)
- Is Umrah Possible Without a Travel Agent in 2025 [Details Guide]

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