Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey that purifies the heart and draws a believer closer to Allah SWT. For anyone preparing for this sacred pilgrimage, understanding the correct procedures, rules, and supplications is crucial. If you are searching for a clear, step-by-step guide on how to make umrah according to the Sunnah, this detailed walkthrough covers everything you need to know for 2026.
From grasping the core umrah hjj difference to reciting the proper niyat for umrah, memorizing the umrah niyat dua, chanting the talbiyah umrah, and reciting essential supplications and tawaf duas, proper preparation ensures your pilgrimage is performed smoothly and accepted by Almighty Allah.
1. Understanding the Umrah Hajj Difference
Before beginning your sacred journey, it is important to distinguish between the minor and major Islamic pilgrimages. While both share profound spiritual value, their obligations, timing, and rituals differ significantly:
- Hajj: An obligatory pillar of Islam for every physically and financially capable Muslim, performed annually during specific days of Dhu al-Hijjah, involving extended rituals across Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
- Umrah: Often referred to as the “minor pilgrimage,” Umrah is non-obligatory (Sunnah muakkadah) and can be performed at any time of the year. It consists of fewer core rituals and takes only a few hours to complete. For official regulations and guidelines, you can check the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah official portal.
2. Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Umrah
Umrah consists of four fundamental pillars that must be executed in precise sequential order to fulfill all religious requirements:
- Step 1: Ihram and Niyat
Before crossing the boundary (Miqat), perform Ghusl, groom yourself, and put on the clean Ihram garments. Once dressed, make your intention and recite the umrah niyat dua to formally enter the sacred state of Ihram. - Step 2: Reciting the Talbiyah
Immediately after your intention, begin chanting the talbiyah umrah aloud (for men) and softly (for women). Continue reciting it continuously while traveling toward Makkah until you enter Masjid al-Haram. - Step 3: Performing Tawaf
Upon entering the Grand Mosque, approach the Kaaba. Start at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad), point toward it, say “Bismillahi Allahu Akbar”, and complete 7 counter-clockwise circuits around the Kaaba while reciting your preferred supplications. Afterward, offer two Rakats behind Maqam-e-Ibrahim and drink blessed Zamzam water. - Step 4: Performing Sa’i and Halq/Taqsir
Walk 7 times between the hills of Safa and Marwah (Sa’i), starting at Safa and ending at Marwah. Conclude your pilgrimage by shaving your head (Halq) or trimming your hair (Taqsir) to exit Ihram completely.
Summary of Rituals and Actions
| Ritual Stage | Location / Requirement | Key Supplication / Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Ihram & Niyat | At the Miqat boundary | Ghusl, white garments, niyat for umrah |
| 2. Talbiyah | Travel transit to Makkah | Continuous chanting of talbiyah umrah |
| 3. Tawaf & Sa’i | Masjid al-Haram & Safa-Marwah | 7 circuits around Kaaba & 7 walks |
| 4. Halq / Taqsir | Post-Sa’i completion area | Shaving or trimming hair |
3. Essential Duas for Umrah and Tawaf
Reciting authentic supplications throughout your journey strengthens your spiritual connection. Here are the core duas every pilgrim should memorize before departure:
Umrah Niyat Dua (Intention):
“Allahumma inni uridul-umrata fayassirha li wa taqabbalha minni.”
(O Allah, I intend to perform Umrah, so make it easy for me and accept it from me.)
The Talbiyah:
“Labbayka Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk, inna al-hamda wa an-ni’mata laka wa al-mulk, la sharika lak.”
(Here I am, O Allah, here I am…)
Tawaf Dua (Between Rukn Yamani and the Black Stone):
“Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina ‘adhaban-nar.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah: 201)
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Tips for a Blessed and Stress-Free Pilgrimage
Proper physical and logistical preparation ensures you remain focused entirely on your worship. Pack lightweight modest clothing, keep necessary identification documents secure, stay well-hydrated throughout your rituals, and follow guided instructions from trusted group leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to Make Umrah
What are the core steps to make Umrah?
Making Umrah involves entering Ihram with the Niyat at the Miqat, reciting the Talbiyah, performing 7 rounds of Tawaf, walking 7 times between Safa and Marwah (Sa’i), and finally cutting or shaving the hair.
When should the niyat for Umrah be declared?
The niyat and transition into Ihram must take place before crossing the designated boundary known as the Miqat.
Are specific duas required during Tawaf?
There are no strict, compulsory wording restrictions for every step of Tawaf, though reciting specific Sunnah duas like Rabbana atina is highly recommended, especially between Rukn Yamani and the Black Stone.
What is the main umrah hajj difference?
Hajj is an obligatory annual pillar of Islam performed during specific days of Dhu al-Hijjah with extended rituals, whereas Umrah is a non-obligatory minor pilgrimage that can be performed at any time of the year.
