How To Perform Umrah

Performing Umrah involves a series of rituals and acts of worship. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to perform Umrah:

1. Ihram: Before entering the state of Ihram, it’s recommended to take a bath (ghusl) and wear clean clothes. For men, Ihram consists of two white, seamless cloths, one wrapped around the waist and the other draped over the shoulders. Women can wear any modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers their bodies.
2. Intention (Niyyah): Make the intention to perform Umrah, either silently in your heart or verbally.
3. Talbiyah: Upon entering Ihram, recite the Talbiyah, a declaration of intention and devotion. Repeat it frequently throughout your journey: “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaik Laa Shareeka Laka Labbaik, Innal Hamdah, Wan Nematah, Laka wal Mulk, Laa Shareeka Lak.”
4. Tawaf: Upon arriving in Mecca, proceed to the Masjid al-Haram (the Grand Mosque). Perform Tawaf, which involves circumambulating the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction, beginning at the Black Stone (Hajr-e-Aswad). During Tawaf, men should keep their right shoulder uncovered (known as Idtiba), if possible, throughout the first three rounds. Women are not required to do so.
5. Maqam Ibrahim: After completing Tawaf, perform two Rak’ahs of Salah behind Maqam Ibrahim, if possible. If not, perform them anywhere in the mosque.
6. Sai: After Salah, proceed to perform Sai, which involves walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa. Begin at Safa and end at Marwa. Remember the sacrifice and perseverance of Hajar (may Allah be pleased with her) while performing Sai.
7. Halq or Taqsir: After completing Sai, men have the option to either shave their heads (Halq) or trim their hair (Taqsir). Shaving the head is preferred, but trimming is also acceptable.
8. End of Ihram: With the completion of Tawaf, Sai, and hair cutting, your Umrah is complete, and you can exit the state of Ihram. Men can now wear their regular clothes, and women can return to their normal attire.
9. Additional Worship: Spend your time in Mecca engaging in additional acts of worship, such as reciting Quran, making dua (supplication), and performing voluntary prayers.
10. Ziyarah: If possible, visit other sacred sites in and around Mecca, such as the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina or the Cave of Hira.
11. Departure: Upon completion of your stay in Mecca, make your way to your next destination, reflecting on the blessings and spiritual growth gained from performing Umrah.

It’s essential to perform Umrah with sincerity, humility, and devotion, seeking forgiveness and guidance from Allah throughout the journey. May your Umrah be accepted, and may it bring you closer to Allah.