Wondering how to perform Umrah? This beginner's guide walks you through the four sacred rites in order, so you arrive in Makkah calm, confident and ready to worship.
What Is Umrah?
Umrah is the "lesser pilgrimage" to the Holy Kaaba in Makkah. Unlike Hajj, it can be performed at any time of the year.
It is a beautiful act of devotion. For many Sri Lankan Muslims, it is the journey of a lifetime, and the ideal first step toward the sacred lands.
Umrah has four essential rites, performed in this order:
- Ihram and intention (niyyah) at the Miqat
- Tawaf — seven circuits around the Kaaba
- Sa'i — seven walks between Safa and Marwah
- Halq or Taqsir — shaving or trimming the hair
Step 1: Enter Ihram at the Miqat
Ihram is the sacred state you enter before crossing the Miqat, the appointed boundary around Makkah.
Before the Miqat, bathe, wear the Ihram garments and pray two rak'ahs. Men wear two white unstitched sheets. Women wear modest ordinary clothing.
As you reach the Miqat, make your niyyah (intention) for Umrah in your heart. You can review the official rite sequence on the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah site. Then begin reciting the Talbiyah:
"Labbayka Allahumma labbayk. Labbayka la sharika laka labbayk. Innal-hamda wan-ni'mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika lak."
Repeat the Talbiyah often as you travel toward Makkah. In Ihram, avoid perfume, cutting hair or nails, arguing and marital relations.
Step 2: Perform Tawaf Around the Kaaba
On reaching the Masjid al-Haram, perform Tawaf — walking seven circuits around the Holy Kaaba.
Begin at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad), keeping the Kaaba on your left. Point toward the Stone and say "Bismillah, Allahu Akbar" to start each round.
Men may do raml (brisk walking) in the first three circuits. Make du'a freely in your own words throughout.
After seven circuits, pray two rak'ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim if possible. Then drink Zamzam water.
Step 3: Complete Sa'i Between Safa and Marwah
Next comes Sa'i — walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
This honours Hajar (AS), who ran between these hills searching for water for her son Isma'il (AS).
Start at Safa and walk to Marwah — that is one. Walk back to Safa — that is two. Continue until you complete seven trips, ending at Marwah.
Men run gently between the green markers. Make du'a and remember Allah as you go.
Step 4: Shave or Trim the Hair (Halq or Taqsir)
The final rite is cutting the hair. Halq means shaving the head. Taqsir means trimming it short.
Men may shave or trim, though shaving carries greater reward. Women trim only a fingertip's length from the ends of their hair.
With this, your Umrah is complete. You leave the state of Ihram, and its restrictions are lifted. Alhamdulillah.
Quick Reference Table
| Rite | Action | Count |
|---|---|---|
| Ihram | Intention and Talbiyah at Miqat | Once |
| Tawaf | Circuits around the Kaaba | 7 |
| Sa'i | Walks between Safa and Marwah | 7 |
| Halq/Taqsir | Shave or trim the hair | Once |
A Few Tips for First-Time Pilgrims
- Learn the Talbiyah and key du'as before you travel.
- Stay hydrated and wear comfortable footwear for Sa'i.
- Keep your intention sincere and your heart present.
- Move gently and be patient with fellow pilgrims.
Performing Umrah is simpler than many expect. With the right guidance and a peaceful heart, every step becomes a source of blessing.
Ready to begin your sacred journey? Contact Farha Travels today, and let our team of nearly 30 years guide you every step of the way — from Ihram to your safe return home.