📖 How to Perform Umrah — Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Everything North American pilgrims need to know before performing Umrah in Makkah
Umrah (العُمرة) is the "lesser pilgrimage" to Makkah, Saudi Arabia — a highly recommended Sunnah act in Islam that can be performed at any time of the year. Unlike Hajj, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and can only be performed during specific days in Dhul-Hijjah, Umrah is voluntary but deeply rewarding. This guide explains every step of the Umrah ritual so you arrive in Makkah fully prepared.
The 4 Steps of Umrah
Entering Ihram at the Miqat
Before passing the Miqat (boundary point), men change into two white seamless cloths and women dress modestly. Perform Ghusl (ritual bath), make Niyyah (intention) for Umrah, and recite the Talbiyah: "Labbayk Allaahumma Labbayk..."
Tawaf — 7 Circuits Around the Kaaba
Perform 7 counter-clockwise circuits (Tawaf) around the Kaaba (Bayt Allah) in Masjid al-Haram. Start and end at the Black Stone (al-Hajar al-Aswad). Each circuit begins with Bismillah and ends with duas. After Tawaf, perform 2 rak'ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim.
Sa'i — 7 Trips Between Safa and Marwa
Walk 7 times between the hills of Safa and Marwa (now enclosed within Masjid al-Haram). Start at Safa, end at Marwa. This commemorates Hajar's search for water for her son Ismail (AS). Men jog between the green lights; women walk at a normal pace.
Halq or Taqsir — Cutting the Hair
Men shave their head entirely (Halq) or cut hair from all parts (Taqsir). Women cut a finger-length from the ends of their hair. This act exits the pilgrim from the state of Ihram. Men who shave (Halq) receive greater reward than those who trim.
Before Umrah: Preparation Checklist
Documents Required
- ✅ Valid passport (6+ months validity beyond travel dates)
- ✅ Saudi Umrah visa (NexSafar handles this for you)
- ✅ Vaccination certificate — Meningococcal ACYW135 (required for entry)
- ✅ Return flight tickets and hotel confirmation
- ✅ Proof of relationship (for women traveling with Mahram)
What to Pack for Umrah
- ✅ Ihram garments (2 white seamless cloths for men)
- ✅ Modest, comfortable clothing (loose-fitting, breathable fabric)
- ✅ Comfortable walking shoes — you will walk 8–12 km per day
- ✅ Tasbeeh (prayer beads) and small dua book
- ✅ Unscented soap, shampoo, and toiletries (no perfume in Ihram)
- ✅ Sunscreen (SPF 50+) — Makkah temperatures can reach 45°C in summer
- ✅ Small backpack for water bottle and essentials
⚠️ Ihram Prohibitions
While in the state of Ihram, pilgrims must avoid: wearing perfume or scented products, cutting hair or nails, sexual relations, covering the head (for men), wearing sewn garments that follow body shape (for men), hunting animals, or cutting plants. Violating these prohibitions requires expiation (Fidyah).
Miqat Points for North American Pilgrims
Pilgrims flying into Jeddah from North America enter Ihram before crossing the Miqat boundary. For flights to Jeddah, the relevant Miqat is Juhfah (also called Rabigh) for those approaching from the northwest. Pilgrims must be in Ihram before their flight passes over the Miqat — this happens while still airborne.
✈️ Entering Ihram on the Plane
Most North American pilgrims enter Ihram at the airport before boarding (at a designated Ihram area) or on the plane when the captain announces the Miqat crossing. NexSafar's certified guides brief all pilgrims on exact timing for each departure date to ensure Ihram is entered correctly.
What to Do in Medina (Ziyarah)
Although visiting Medina (al-Madinah al-Munawwarah) is not part of the Umrah ritual itself, most pilgrims choose to visit before or after Umrah. Key sites in Medina include:
- 🕌 Masjid an-Nabawi — The Prophet's Mosque, where Muhammad (ﷺ) is buried
- 🕌 Ar-Rawdah ash-Sharifah — The sacred garden between the Prophet's house and his pulpit
- ⚰️ Al-Baqi Cemetery — Resting place of the Prophet's family and Companions
- 🕌 Masjid Quba — The first mosque ever built in Islamic history
- ⛰️ Jabal Uhud — The mountain of the Battle of Uhud
Frequently Asked Questions
How many steps are there in Umrah?
Umrah has four main steps: Ihram, Tawaf (7 circuits around the Kaaba), Sa'i (7 trips between Safa and Marwa), and Halq or Taqsir (shaving or cutting hair).
How long does it take to perform Umrah?
The Umrah rituals (Tawaf + Sa'i + Halq) can be completed in 3–6 hours. However, during peak times (Ramadan), it can take much longer due to crowds. A complete Umrah trip including travel is usually 10–14 days.
Can I perform Umrah more than once during the same trip?
Yes. If you wish to perform multiple Umrahs during one trip, you must exit Makkah to a Miqat boundary (most commonly Tan'im / Masjid A'isha, closest Miqat to Makkah) and re-enter Ihram for each additional Umrah.
Can women perform Umrah without a Mahram?
Saudi Arabia updated its rules: women aged 45 and above may travel in organized Umrah groups without a Mahram (male guardian). Women under 45 should travel with a Mahram. Rules may change — always verify current Saudi regulations with NexSafar before booking.
What is the best time to perform Umrah from Canada or the USA?
Umrah is available year-round. The best times for spiritual experience are during Ramadan (highest reward), Rajab, and Sha'ban. For weather comfort, October–February offers cooler temperatures in Makkah (20–30°C). Avoid peak school holidays for lighter crowds.
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