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Umrah GuideA simple guide to performing Umrah
Understand the steps of Umrah, learn the Talbiyah and prepare your heart and mind for this blessed journey to the House of Allah.
The lesser pilgrimage to Makkah
Umrah is a sacred act of worship performed at the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. Unlike Hajj, it can be performed at any time of the year, and it is a beautiful opportunity to seek Allah's forgiveness and draw closer to Him.
Umrah consists of a few essential rites: entering the state of Ihram, performing Tawaf around the Ka'bah, walking between Safa and Marwah (Sa'i), and shaving or trimming the hair. Preparing well helps you perform each step with understanding and devotion.
لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ، لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ
Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk, innal-hamda wan-ni'mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika lak
Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Truly all praise, blessings and sovereignty belong to You. You have no partner.
The steps of Umrah
A brief overview of the main rites, in the order they are performed.
Enter the state of Ihram
Before crossing the Miqat (the designated boundary), prepare by bathing, wearing the Ihram garments and making the intention (niyyah) for Umrah. Once in Ihram, certain actions become prohibited until Umrah is complete.
Recite the Talbiyah
After making the intention, recite the Talbiyah frequently on your journey to Makkah, remembering Allah and answering His call.
Perform Tawaf
At the Masjid al-Haram, walk around the Ka'bah seven times in an anti-clockwise direction, beginning and ending at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad), while making dua and remembrance.
Pray two rak'ahs & drink Zamzam
After Tawaf, pray two rak'ahs, behind Maqam Ibrahim if it is easy to do so, and then drink from the blessed water of Zamzam.
Perform Sa'i
Walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, starting at Safa and finishing at Marwah, remembering the faith and patience of Hajar (may Allah be pleased with her).
Shave or trim the hair
Men shave their heads (Halq) or shorten their hair (Taqsir), and women trim a small amount from the end of their hair. With this, Umrah is complete and the restrictions of Ihram are lifted.
Preparing for your journey
A little preparation goes a long way. Before you travel, it helps to:
Learn the rites and their rulings in advance
Memorise the Talbiyah and some favourite duas
Check visa and travel requirements early
Pack Ihram clothing and comfortable footwear
Prepare a personal list of duas for yourself and loved ones
Renew your intention and seek forgiveness
Please note
This page is a brief, general overview to help you prepare. Before travelling, please learn the detailed rulings of Umrah from a qualified scholar or a reliable guide, as some details differ between schools of thought.
Prepare for Umrah with a teacher
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