How to Perform Umrah, Step by Step

1. Prepare before you travel

Learn the sequence of the rites before departure, pack your Ihram garments, and confirm your visa, flights and hotels in writing. Check current Saudi entry and permit rules, as access arrangements can change by season.

2. Enter Ihram at the Miqat

A person intending Umrah must enter Ihram before crossing the applicable Miqat. When flying from the UK or Ireland, the timing depends on your flight route — many pilgrims change into Ihram garments at the airport or early in the flight and make the intention before the Miqat is crossed. If you are unsure when to make the intention, ask a qualified scholar or a knowledgeable group leader before travel.

3. Recite the Talbiyah

After entering Ihram, pilgrims recite the Talbiyah — the prescribed declaration of response to Allah. Learn the wording and the related practices from a reliable Umrah guide or qualified teacher before travelling.

4. Perform Tawaf around the Ka'bah

Tawaf is the rite of circumambulating the Ka'bah seven times in the prescribed manner. Follow the designated routes, avoid pushing others and comply with mosque staff instructions. You do not have to touch or kiss the Black Stone — never injure or inconvenience others to reach it.

5. Perform Sa'i between Safa and Marwah

Sa'i is the rite of travelling between Safa and Marwah seven times according to the prescribed sequence. Familiarise yourself with the route in advance, and plan wheelchair or other assistance if you have mobility or health concerns.

6. Shave or trim the hair

Umrah is completed by shaving or trimming the hair in accordance with the applicable religious rulings. The details differ for men and women and can depend on individual circumstances — learn the correct procedure before travelling.

Common questions about the rites

• A forgotten step does not automatically require a sacrifice — the ruling depends on which act was missed and the circumstances. Explain the exact situation to a qualified scholar.
• Pilgrims with limited mobility may use wheelchairs or other assistance, subject to current facilities and access rules. Plan your hotel, transport and assistance around your needs.
• Performing Umrah on behalf of another person, or performing multiple Umrahs in one trip, is subject to religious conditions — seek scholarly guidance first.
• Whether a woman may travel without a Mahram involves both current Saudi entry rules and religious rulings, which can differ among scholars. Check official rules and seek trusted guidance.

Sources & further reading

• Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah — Umrah and Visit Guide
• GOV.UK — Saudi Arabia pilgrimage guidance
• 100 Umrah FAQs for UK & Ireland pilgrims

This page provides general information, not a religious ruling. Questions about a specific mistake, compensation, Ihram or the validity of a rite should be referred to a qualified scholar.