Meaning of Umrah
Umrah is an Arabic word that means “to visit a populated place”. In Islam, it refers to a pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia, which can be performed at any time of the year. Although it is disliked to carry out the pilgrimage during the days of Hajj which take place between the 9th and 13th of Dhul Hijjah. The rites carried out during Umrah also form an integral part of Hajj itself. Unlike the obligatory pilgrimage of Hajj, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and must be performed once in a lifetime by every able-bodied and financially capable Muslim, Umrah is a voluntary act of worship. However, it is highly recommended in Islam and is believed to bring great blessings and rewards from Allah.
In terms of Shariah, Umrah comprises of passing the Miqat in the state of Ihram, performing Tawaf (circumambulation) around the Kaaba, doing Sa’i (walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah). and carrying out Halq (shaving) or Taqsir (shortening) of the hair.
Obligation of Umrah
The Prophet ﷺ performed Umrah four times during his life. There is a difference of opinion among the four Sunni schools of thought as to whether performing Umrah at least once in a person’s lifetime is compulsory or not.
According to the Hanafi and Maliki schools of thought, Umrah is not Fardh (obligatory), but is considered a Sunnah Mu’akkadah (emphasised Sunnah). On the other hand, the performance of Umrah is considered Fardh according to the Shafi’i and Hanbali schools of thought, just like Hajj.
Virtues of Umrah
Although Umrah isn’t an obligation for those who follow the Hanafi and Maliki schools of thought, there is still tremendous benefit and blessing in its performance as mentioned in the following Hadiths:
Abu Hurairah I narrates:
Allah’s Messenger ﷺ said, ‘(The performance of) Umrah is an expiation for the sins committed (between it and the previous one). And the reward of Hajj Mabrur (the one accepted by Allah) is nothing except Paradise.’ [Narrated in Sahih al-Bukhari]
Abdullah ibn Abbas I said:
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: ‘Perform Hajj and Umrah consecutively; for they remove poverty and sin as the furnace removes impurity from iron.’[Narrated in Sunan al-Nasa’i]
It was narrated from Abu Hurairah I that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:
The pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah are a delegation to Allah. If they call upon Him, He will answer them; and if they ask for His forgiveness, He will forgive them.[Narrated in Sunan Ibn Majah]
Types of Umrah
There are two types of Umrah:
- Umrah al-Mufradah – this type of Umrah is performed independently to Hajj and can be carried out at any point during the year, except during the days of Hajj.
- Umrah al-Tamattu – this type of Umrah is performed in conjunction with Hajj and is normally carried out in the month of Dhul Hijjah, just before the commencement of Hajj. This particular type of Hajj is known as Hajj al-Tamattu and is the most common and easiest type performed by pilgrims.
Conditions of Umrah
There are a number of conditions that need to be met in order to perform Umrah. These conditions are exactly the same as those for performing Hajj:
- Islam – you must be Muslim.
- Maturity – you must have reached puberty i.e. you are Baligh.
- Sanity – you must be mentally sound and in full control of your mental faculties.
- Financially able – you must have sufficient expenses to cover travelling, accommodation and all other requirements during the course of your Umrah. You must also have sufficient expenses to support your dependents during your absence. Being debt-free isn’t a prerequisite, although arrangements for debts to be fulfilled should be made prior to going on Umrah.
- Physically able – you must be physically capable of travelling to Makkah and performing the rites of Umrah. You should be free from any illnesses or diseases that would restrict you from doing so.
- Transport – you must have access to and can afford transport to travel to Makkah in order to perform Umrah. Travelling should also be safe i.e. you shouldn’t be in any danger of being harmed during your trip.
- The Necessity of a Mahram (women only) – females must be accompanied by a Mahram.
- Free from Iddah period (women only) – females must be free from their Iddah period, if applicable.
Time for Umrah
Legally, there is no specified time during which Umrah must be performed; it can be performed throughout the year. However, it should not be performed during the days of Hajj.
Although there isn’t a specified time, performing Umrah during Ramadan is deemed very virtuous, as indicated by Abdullah ibn Abbas I who said:
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said to a woman from among the Ansar: ‘When it is Ramadan, perform Umrah then, for Umrah during it is equivalent to Hajj.’
[Narrated in Sunan an-Nasa’i]
Summary of Umrah
Ihram
- Purity – Clip the nails, remove unwanted hair under the armpits and navel and trim the moustache.
- Bathe – Do Ghusl (bath) or at the very least, Wudhu (ablution).
- Ihram clothing – Before reaching the Miqat, put on the Ihram. For men, this is two sheets of white cloth. For women, regular modest clothing will suffice. It is recommended to put on the Ihram at the airport before departure.
- Salah of Ihram – Perform two Rakahs of Salah after putting on the Ihram. Recite Surah al-Kafirun (Surah 109) in the first Rakah and Surah al-Ikhlas (Surah 112) in the second after al-Fatiha. Make Dua after the Salah.
- Niyyah – Make your Niyyah for Umrah as you approach the Miqat, preferably in the plane. Make sure you remove any clothing that violates the conditions of Ihram. It is recommended to make a verbal intention. This may be done in any language.
لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ عُمْرَة
Labbayka llāhumma ‘umratan.
O Allah, here I am to perform Umrah. - Talbiyah – Recite the Talbiyah:
لَبَّيْكَ اللهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ – لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيْكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ – إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ – لَا شَرِيْكَ لَكَ –
Labbayka llāhumma labbayk(a), labbayka lā sharīka laka labbayk(a), inna l-ḥamda wa n-ni’mata, laka wa l-mulk(a), lā sharīka lak.
At Your service, Allah, at Your service. At Your service, You have no partner, at Your service. Truly all praise, favour and sovereignty is Yours. You have no partner.
Men should chant the Talbiyah audibly and women should recite quietly. Send Salawat on the Prophet ﷺ and make Dua after pronouncing the Talbiyah. - To Makkah – Proceed to Makkah while reciting Talbiyah, Dhikr and Salawat.
- Enter Masjid al-Haram – Upon reaching Masjid al-Haram, enter with your right foot, preferably through Bab al-Salam and recite the Dua for entering the mosque.
- Dua at the Kaaba – Keep your gaze lowered until you see the Kaaba. Upon seeing it, say Allāhu akbar. Allāhu akbar. Lā ilāha illa-llāh three times. Raise your hands, make an abundance of Dua and send Salawat on the Prophet ﷺ.
Tawaf al-Umrah
- Idtiba – Men should uncover the right shoulder by passing the upper Ihram garment under the right armpit (Idtiba).
- Starting point – Position yourself in line with the Hajar al-Aswad. This is the starting point of the Tawaf. A green light on the wall will highlight this position.
- Niyyah – Make your Niyyah for Tawaf. It is recommended to make a verbal intention. This may be done in any language.
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أُرِيْدُ طَوَافَ بَيْتِكَ الْحَرَامِ فَيَسِّرْهُ لِيْ وَتَقَبَّلْهُ مِنِّيْ
Allāhumma innī urīdu l-ṭawwafa baytika l-ḥarāmi fa yassirhu lī wa taqabbalhu minnī.
O Allah, I intend to perform Tawaf of the Sacred Mosque, so accept it from me and make it easy for me. - Istilam – Kiss or touch the Hajar al-Aswad if you can reach it. If not, gesture towards it from afar. This is called Istilam. To do Istilam, raise your hands to your ears and say Bismi llāhi wallāhu akbar.
- Start – Start the first circuit of the Tawaf, making sure the Kaaba is on your left.
- Raml – Men may walk briskly with the chest sticking out (Raml) in the first three circuits. Don’t do this if there is too much congestion.
- Dhikr & Dua – You may recite Quran, do Dhikr, make any Dua and send Salawat during Tawaf. Between the Rukn al-Yamani and the Hajar al-Aswad, you can recite:
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
Rabbanā ātinā fi d-dunyā ḥasanatan wafi l-ākhirati ḥasanatan wa qinā ‘adhāba n-nār.
O our Lord, grant us the good of this world, the good of the Hereafter, and save us from the punishment of the fire. - End of circuit – Returning to the Hajar al-Aswad marks one circuit. Start the second by making Istilam of the Hajar al-Aswad and saying Allāhu akbar.
- End of Tawaf – Complete seven rounds continuously (unless Salah starts). You will finish having made Istilam eight times in total.
- Stop Idtiba – Cover your right shoulder with your Ihram.
- Salah of Tawaf – After Tawaf, perform two Rakahs of Salah, preferably in a position where Maqam Ibrahim is between you and the Kaaba. If this is not possible, pray anywhere in the Masjid. Recite Surah al-Kafirun (Surah 109) in the first Rakah and Surah al-Ikhlas (Surah 112) in the second after al-Fatiha. Make Dua after the Salah.
- Zamzam – Drink Zamzam water and make Dua.
- Multazam – If possible, go to the area between the Hajar al-Aswad and Kaaba door (Multazam). Cling to the wall and make Dua. If it’s inaccessible, face it and make Dua.
- Final Istilam – Before Sa’i, it’s recommended to make Istilam for the ninth time.
Sa’i of Safa and Marwah
- Proceed to Safa – Go to the hill of Safa and make Niyyah for Sa’i.
- Dua at Safa – At Safa, face the Kaaba and say Takbir (Allāhu akbar), Tahlil (lā ilāha illā Allāh) and send Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ. Make as much Dua as possible here.
- Proceed to Marwa – On the way to Marwa, men should quicken their pace between the set of green lights. Women should continue normally.
- Dhikr & Dua – Do Dhikr, Dua and Salawat of your own choice as you walk between the two hills.
- Dua at Marwa – After reaching Marwa, make Dua as you did at Safa. This is one lap.
- Return to Safa – Go back to Safa for you second lap.
- End of Sa’i – Repeat this until you have completed seven laps, finishing at Marwa.
- Dua and Salah of Sa’i – Make Dua and performs two Rakahs of Salah in the Masjid.
Halq or Taqsir
- Exit the Masjid with your left foot and recite the Dua for leaving the mosque.
- To leave the state of Ihram and complete your Umrah, you must have you head shaved (Halq) or trimmed by at least an inch (Taqsir).
- Women may only have their hair trimmed.
- There are a number of men’s barber shops outside the Haram.
Ihram
Physical Purity
Before getting changed into the Ihram garments, take care of your personal hygiene by clipping your nails and removing the hair under your armpits and beneath the navel. You should then do Ghusl, a highly emphasised Sunnah for those intending to enter into a state of Ihram. If you can’t perform Ghusl, doing Wudhu will suffice. Men may apply Attar/perfume to their heads/beards, ensuring not to get any on the Ihram garments. This should all be carried out at your place of residence before your flight (assuming you’re flying).
Ihram Garments
You will then get changed into your Ihram garments which for men consists of two, normally white, clean seamless pieces of cloth. The sheet which wraps around the waist covering the lower body is known as the Izar and the sheet that is draped over the upper body like a shawl is known as the Rida. Sandals shouldn’t cover the heel and ankle. The Hanafi school of thought also stipulates that the top part of the foot should also remain exposed.
Ensure you put on your Ihram attire before crossing the designated Miqat.
You will likely be travelling to Saudi Arabia via plane, so it is advisable to get changed into your Ihram at the airport prior to departure or during a stopover if you have one. Check-in first and get changed in the prayer room or bathroom. Alternatively, you can put on your Ihram in-flight although bear in mind that aeroplane bathrooms are usually very limited in space and there may well be a rush of people intending to do the same thing as the Miqat approaches. If you decide to slip into your Ihram attire on the plane, do so at least an hour before the Miqat is crossed.
You may delay making your intention until the Miqat approaches. Just before crossing, remove any articles of clothing that you may still be wearing that violate the conditions of Ihram such as socks, headwear and underwear.
Women aren’t required to conform to a specific dress code. Clothing should be normal modest Islamic dress with a head covering of any colour. Hands and faces must remain exposed although socks may be worn.
Salah al-Ihram
It’s Sunnah to perform two Rakahs of Salah before entering into the state of Ihram. This can be performed after getting changed at the airport or in-flight before crossing the Miqat providing there are prayer facilities on-board. Observe the prayer with the intention of performing two Rakahs Nafl for Ihram.
Since you’re not yet in the spiritual state of Ihram, the prayer may be observed with the head covered. It is recommended to recite Surah al-Kafirun (Surah 109) in the first Rakah and Surah al-Ikhlas (Surah 112) in the second, although other Surahs may be read. Don’t forget to make Dua after this Salah.
Niyyah
The Niyyah for Umrah should be made at the Miqat or close to it as you move in its direction. Ideally, you should delay making the intention until the last moment so you aren’t restricted by its prohibitions for longer than need be. It is recommended (Mustahabb) that you make the intention verbally, as well as reiterating it internally.
Following are three examples of intentions that may be uttered in Arabic:
لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ عُمْرَةً
Labbayka llāhumma ‘umratan.
O Allah, here I am to perform Umrah.
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أُرِيْدُ الْعُمْرَةَ
Allāhumma innī urīdu l-‘umrata.
O Allah, I intend to perform Umrah.
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أُرِيْدُ الْعُمْرَةَ فَيَسِّرْهَا لِيْ وَتَقَبَّلْهَا مِنِّيْ
Allāhumma innī urīdu l-‘umrata fa yassirhā lī wa taqabbalhā minnī.
O Allah, I intend to perform Umrah, so accept it from me and make it easy for me.
Talbiyah
After making your Niyyah, you must recite the Talbiyah to validate your intention and enter into the state of Ihram. The utterance of the Talbiyah is Wajib according to the Hanafi and Maliki schools of thought. The Shafi’i and Hanbali schools consider it a Sunnah.
The Sunnah method of reciting the Talbiyah is to briefly pause at four places, indicated by the dashes. The prayer is as follows:
لَبَّيْكَ اللهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ – لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيْكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ – إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ – لَا شَرِيْكَ لَكَ –
Labbayka llāhumma labbayk(a), labbayka lā sharīka laka labbayk(a), inna l-ḥamda wa n-ni’mata, laka wa l-mulk(a), lā sharīka lak.
At Your service, Allah, at Your service. At Your service, You have no partner, at Your service. Truly all praise, favour and sovereignty are Yours. You have no partner.
After uttering the Talbiyah, you will now be in a state of Ihram and be known as a Muhrim. Make sure you’re well aware of the prohibitions of Ihram and ensure you don’t fall foul of its rules. If a rule of Ihram is violated, Damm or Sadaqah will be required as expiation.
It is recommended to send Salawat on the Prophet ﷺ after reciting the Talbiyah and to make Dua for yourself and others. Continue reciting the Talbiyah for the rest of your journey until you reach one of the doors of Masjid al-Haram prior to performing Tawaf.
Haram of Makkah
The Haram of Makkah is a sacred area that extends a number of miles around Masjid al-Haram in all directions. In this area, it is forbidden to:
- Cut or damage grass, trees or any other type of vegetation.
- Harm or kill wild animals. This includes scaring away pigeons and other birds.
- Carry weapons.
- Fight or behave in a way that will violate the sanctity of this area.
Although you’re unlikely to breach one of these rules, keep in mind the sanctity of Makkah.
Entering Makkah
As you reach the limits of the Haram, constantly recite the Talbiyah, do Dhikr and send Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ. Recital of the following Dua is recommended upon entering the Haram:
اَللَّهُمَّ هَذَا حَرَمُكَ وَأَمْنُكَ فَحَرِّمْنِي عَلَى النَّارِ، وَأَمِنِّي مِنْ عَذَابِكَ يَوْمَ تَبْعَثُ عِبَادَكَ، وَاجْعَلْنِي مِنْ أَوْلِيَائِكَ وَأَهْلِ طَاعَتِكَ.
Allāhumma hādhā ḥaramuka wa amnuka fa ḥarrimnī ‘ala-n-Nār, wa amminnī min ‘adhābika yawma tab’athu ‘ibādak, wa j‘alnī min awliyā’ika wa ahli ṭā’atik.
Allah, this is Your sanctuary and security, so make me unlawful to Hell-Fire, make me safe from Your punishment on the day You resurrect Your servants; and make me one of Your friends and one of the people who obey You.
After arriving at your accommodation in Makkah, you may want to freshen up or take a rest before making your way to Masjid al-Haram to perform Tawaf al-Umrah. If you decide to take a shower, ensure you don’t use any items that are prohibited in the state of Ihram e.g. scented soap or shampoo. It is recommended you present yourself at Masjid al-Haram as soon as possible.
When you’re ready, decide which of your belongings you want to take with you bearing in mind there are thieves that operate in the mosque.
Entering Masjid al-Haram
It is Sunnah to enter Masjid al-Haram via Bab al-Salam (the Gate of Peace). If you can’t do this, you may proceed through any other door. Step through with your right foot first and recite the supplication for entering a mosque. Either or both of these supplications may be recited:
.بِسْمِ اللهِ، اللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَى مُحَمَّدٍ. اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَافْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ رَحْمَتِك
Bismi-llāh, Allāhumma ṣalli alā Muhammad. Allāhumma-ghfir lī wa-ftaḥ lī abwāba raḥmatik.
In the name of Allah, send blessings upon Muhammad ﷺ. O Allah, open for me the doors of Your Bounty.
أَعُوذُ بِاللهِ الْعَظِيمِ، وَبِوَجْهِهِ الْكَرِيمِ، وَسُلْطَانِهِ الْقَدِيمِ، مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ الرَّجِيمِ
A‘ūdhu bi-llāhi-l-Aẓīm, wa bi-wajhihi-l-karīm, wa sulṭānihi-l-qadīm, mina-sh-Shayṭāni-r-rajīm.
I seek protection in Allah the Tremendous, His Noble Countenance, and His pre-eternal Sovereign Might from Shaytan the rejected.
Notes:
- Don’t perform Tahiyatul Masjid (prayer for greeting the mosque) if you intend to; your Tawaf will suffice as the “greeting” for Masjid al-Haram.
- If you don’t have the intention of performing Tawaf immediately, you may perform Tahiyatul Masjid.
- In Masjid al-Haram, it is permissible for anyone to walk across those performing Salah. However, their place of prostration should be avoided.
First Sight of the Kaaba
After entering the mosque, keep your gaze lowered until you reach the Mataf area, which is the open space where Tawaf takes place. When you’re ready, with humility, awe and reverence, lift your gaze to set sight on the beatific vision of the Holy Kaaba.
Upon seeing the Kaaba for the first time, raise your hands and make Dua with the utmost concentration and sincerity as this is among those places where prayers are answered. Remember to recite Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ when making Dua. Umar ibn al-Khattab I narrated:
Dua is suspended between heaven and earth and none of it is taken up until you send blessings upon your Prophet ﷺ.
[Narrated in Sunan al-Tirmidhi]
Recite the following three times:
.اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ. اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ . لَآ اِلَهَ اِلَّا اللّٰهُ
Allāhu akbar. Allāhu akbar. Lā ilāha illa-llāh.
Allah is the Greatest. Allah is the Greatest. There is no God except Allah.
It’s a Sunnah to recite the following Duas:
اَللَّهُمَّ زِدْ أَهْلَ هَذَا الْبَيْتَ تَشْرِيفاً وَتَعْظِيماً وَتَكْرِيماً وَمَهَابَةً، وَزِدْ مَنْ شَرَّفَهُ وَكَرَّمَهُ مِمَّنْ حَجَّهُ أَوْ اعْتَمَرَهُ تَشْرِيفاً وَتَكْرِيماً وَتَعْظِيماً وَبِرّاً.
Allāhumma zid hādhā-l-Bayta tashrīfan wa ta’ẓīman wa takrīman wa mahābah, wa zid man sharrafahu wa karramahu mimman ḥajjahu awi-’tamarahu tashrīfan wa takrīman wa ta’ẓīman wa birrā.
Allah, increase this House in honour, esteem, respect and reverence. And increase those who honour and respect it—of those who perform Hajj or ‘Umrah—in honour, respect, esteem and piety.
اَللَّهُمَّ أَنْتَ السَّلاَمُ وَمِنْكَ السَّلَامُ، حَيِّنَا رَبَّنَا بِالسَّلاَمِ.
Allāhumma Anta-s-Salāmu wa minka-s-salām, ḥayyinā Rabbanā bi-s-salām.
O Allah, You are Peace and from You is peace. Make us live, Lord, in peace.
Do Dhikr, make Dua and send Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ in abundance here. Make the most of this opportunity before you begin your Tawaf, especially if it’s the first time you’ve set eyes on the Kaaba.
On the spiritual Hajj and Umrah trip to the purest place on earth, there are Miqats (Islamic boundaries Prophet Mohammed Peace Be Upon Him determined for Pilgrims to enter Ihram from), either by land points or parallel to Miqat when arriving by air.
Miqat locations for Hajj and Umrah Pilgrims:
- Dhul Hulaifah, the Miqat of people passing by Al-Madinah
- Al-Jehfa, the Miqat of people coming from or passing by Ash-sham
- Qarn Al-Manazil, the Miqat of people coming from or passing by Najd
- Yalamlam, the Miqat of people coming from or passing by Yemen
- Dhat Irq, the Miqat of people coming from or passing by Iraq
Al-Juhfah
Al-Juhfah is located 182 kilometres (113 miles) northwest of Makkah. This is the Miqat for people intending to perform Hajj traveling from North America, Europe, Turkey, Syria, Egypt, Algeria, Sudan and several other African countries. Pilgrims may also enter into Ihram at Rabigh, a town just to the north of al-Juhfah.
Qarn Al Manazil
Qarn al-Manazil is located 80 kilometres (50 miles) east of Makkah. This is the Miqat for the people of Najd and for those traveling from countries such as the U.A.E, Oman, Pakistan, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, etc. It is situated near the city of Ta’if.
Yalamlam
Yalamlam is located 100 kilometres (62 miles) south of Makkah. This is the Miqat for the people of Yemen and those coming from the south. Pilgrims traveling from countries such as South Africa, Nigeria etc. will cross this Miqat.
Dhat Irq
Dhat Irq is located 90 kilometres (56 miles) northeast of Makkah. This is the Miqat for people intending to perform Hajj travelling from Iraq, Iran, China, Russia etc
For the Tawaf to be considered valid, the following is necessary:
- To perform Tawaf yourself.
- To make an intention (verbally or not).
- To do Tawaf in Masjid al-Haram.
- To be in a state of Wudhu and free of anything that requires Ghusl e.g. menstruation.
- To conceal the Awrah.
- To start Tawaf from Hajar al-Aswad.
- To move in an anti-clockwise direction.
- To avoid the Hatim (the semi-circle area outside the Kaaba).
- To perform Tawaf by foot, for those who are able.
- To perform seven circuits.
- To perform two Rakahs of Salah after the Tawaf.
Preparation
Ensure you’re in a state of Wudhu and if you’re a male, uncover your right shoulder by passing the top sheet of your Ihram under your right armpit, allowing the garment to hang over your left shoulder (Idtiba) .
Starting Point
Tawaf starts at al-Hajar al-Aswad
Position yourself in line with the corner of the Kaaba where the Hajar al-Aswad is situated. This corner is the one that faces a single minaret (the other three corners face two minarets). There is a green light on the wall of the Masjid opposite the Kaaba which indicates where the Tawaf starts from. This is the starting point of each Shawt (circuit). Stand just before this starting point facing the Kaaba ensuring the Hajar al-Aswad is on your right side.
Intention
As with any other act of worship, make the Niyyah to perform Tawaf solely for Allah. You may also ask for acceptance and ease of your Tawaf. The following words may be said:
O Allah, I intend to perform the Tawaf of Umrah of the Kaaba for your sake and your sake alone. Please accept it from me and make it easy for me.
You may make the following intention, which is in Arabic:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أُرِيْدُ طَوَافَ بَيْتِكَ الْحَرَامِ فَيَسِّرْهُ لِيْ وَتَقَبَّلْهُ مِنِّيْ
Allāhumma innī urīdu l-ṭawwafa baytika l-ḥarāmi fa yassirhu lī wa taqabbalhu minnī.
O Allah, I intend to perform Tawaf of the Sacred Mosque, so accept it from me and make it easy for me.
The Niyyah doesn’t have to be verbal.
Kissing, Touching or Saluting the Hajar al-Aswad (Istilam)
- Kissing – If you reach the Hajar al-Aswad, place your hands on it, put your face between your hands, say “bismi llāhi wallāhu akbar (ِسْمِ اللَّهِ وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ)” and kiss it lightly. Some scholars have said it is preferable to kiss it three times if you have the chance.
- Touching – If you’re in reaching distance but unable to kiss it, touch it with your hand(s) and kiss your hand(s).
- Saluting – If it isn’t possible to reach the stone, as is likely to be the case, perform a symbolic Istilam from afar by directly facing the Hajar al-Aswad and raising your hands up to your earlobes (as you would do when starting Salah). Ensure your palms are also facing it, as though your face and hands are on the Hajar al-Aswad and say “bismi llāhi wallāhu akbar (ِسْمِ اللَّهِ وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ).” You may kiss your palms if you wish.
The following supplication, a Dua of Ali I, may be recited when coming parallel to the Hajar al-Aswad in each circuit:
سْمِ اللَّهِ وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللَّهُمَّ إِيْمَاناً بِكَ وَتَصْدِيْقاً بِكِتَابِكَ، وَوَفَاءً بِعَهْدِكَ، وَاتِّبَاعاً لِسُنَّةِ نَبِيِّكَ مُحَمَّدْ
Bismi llāhi wa llāhu akbar, Allāhumma īmānan bika wa taṣdīqan bi kitābika wa wafā’an bi ahdika wattibā’an li sunnati nabiyyika Muḥammadin ﷺ.
In the name of Allah, Allah is the greatest. O Allah, out of faith in You, conviction in Your book, in fulfilment of Your covenant and in emulation of Your Prophet’s Sunnah ﷺ.
Other forms of Dhikr such as Tahlil (lā ilāha illā Allāh) and Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ may also be uttered at this point.
Start the Tawaf
Turn to your right and start the first circuit of your Tawaf, ensuring the Kaaba is on your left. Proceed in an anti-clockwise direction and avoid walking through the Hijr Ismail. If you happen to walk through it, the circuit won’t count and it will have to be repeated.
Raml
In the first three circuits, men should perform Raml, which is the practice of walking briskly, lifting the legs forcefully and sticking out the chest. However, if there is congestion, which is likely to be the case if you’re closer to the Kaaba, only perform this Sunnah if you’re sure you won’t harm or inconvenience others.
Dhikr & Dua
During your Tawaf, you may recite prayers and supplications of your choice. Duas are accepted during Tawaf so make the most of the occasion and remember Allah with sincerity and devotion. It’s perhaps advisable not to read from a Dua book, especially if you don’t understand the Arabic. Imam Ibn Hibban V said:
Specifying a Dua would take the moment away, because with specific Duas, one will merely be repeating words, whereas this occasion is for any Dua and for remembering one’s Lord with humility and sincerity.
Thus you should supplicate in any language and in any manner that you prefer. If you want to make Quranic and Prophetic supplications during your Tawaf, make an effort to memorise and learn the meanings of them. Reciting Quran and sending Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ during Tawaf is also recommended.
Rukn al-Yamani
Upon reaching the Rukn al-Yamani (the Yemeni Corner), the corner preceding the Hajar al-Aswad, touch it with your right hand or both hands and say “Allāhu akbar (اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ)” if you manage to get close enough. If there’s too much congestion, as is likely to be the case, proceed without saying Takbir or gesturing towards it.
It is a Sunnah to recite the following Dua between the Rukn al-Yamani and the Hajar al-Aswad:
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
Rabbanā ātinā fi d-dunyā ḥasanatan wafi l-ākhirati ḥasanatan wa qinā ‘adhāba n-nār.
O our Lord, grant us the good of this world, the good of the Hereafter, and save us from the punishment of the fire.
[Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:201]
Imam Shafi’i V recommended this Dua to be recited throughout the Tawaf.
End of Circuit at the Hajar al-Aswad
Returning to Hajar al-Aswad marks the completion of one circuit. Begin the second by doing Istilam of Hajar al-Aswad as previously described and saying “Allāhu akbar (اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ)”. You should say Allāhu akbar while doing Istilam in all subsequent circuits. You will be performing Istilam eight times in total during the Tawaf; one before the start of the Tawaf and one at the end of each of the seven circuits.
During Tawaf
The Tawaf should be completed in a continuous manner with no interruptions between circuits. However, if a congregational prayer is due to start, you must join the congregation and resume your Tawaf from the position that you stopped. The circuit need not be repeated. These rules also apply if you need to repeat your Wudhu.
Complete the Tawaf
Proceed in the same manner until have you completed seven circuits. Performing Istilam at the start of Tawaf and at the end is a highly emphasised Sunnah and performing Istilam on the other six occasions is desirable.
If you are in a state Idtiba, cover your shoulder with your Ihram.
Salah
Upon finishing the Tawaf, perform two Rakahs of Salah, preferably in a position where Maqam Ibrahim is between you and the Kaaba. However, keep in mind that since Maqam Ibrahim is situated within the Mataf, there is often nowhere for pilgrims performing Tawaf to move, except around and almost over the top of those praying just beyond Maqam Ibrahim, resulting in a great deal of congestion. If it isn’t possible to perform the prayer there as a result of crowding, it can be performed anywhere in Masjid al-Haram.
While moving to the place where you intend to perform the two Rakahs, it is recommended to audibly recite the following:
وَاتَّخِذُوا مِنْ مَقَامِ إِبْرَاهِيمَ مُصَلًّى
Wattakhidhu min maqāmi Ibrāhīma muṣalla.
And take the Maqam Ibrahim as a place of Salah.
[Surah al-Baqarah, 2:125]
It is Sunnah to recite Surah al-Kafirun (Qul Yā Ayyuha-l-Kāfirūn) in the first Rakah and Surah al-Ikhlas (Qul Huwa-llāhu Ahad) in the second, after Surah al-Fatiha. Make sure you make plenty of Dua after completing the prayer.
Zamzam
After completing Salah and making Dua, drink your fill of Zamzam water which is available around the Tawaf area and from various water fountains and dispensers in Masjid al-Haram. The entrance to the old well of Zamzam has been covered to allow for more room to do Tawaf.
The Prophet ﷺ said: “The water of Zamzam is for whatever purpose it is drunk for.” Before drinking the Zamzam water, make an intention that its consumption will be a means of fulfilling your wishes, whether that is good health, success in this world, or protection from the tribulations of the grave. When drinking the water, it is Mustahabb to should stand and face the Kaaba, say Bismillah, pause to take a breath three times, and say Alhamdulillah after finishing. You can also rub it on your face and body. You may recite the following Dua after drinking the water:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا وَ رِزْقًا وَاسِعًا وَ شِفَاءً مِنْ كُلِّ دَاءٍ
Allahumma innī as’aluka ‘ilman nāfi’an, wa rizqan wāsi’an, wa ‘amalan mutaqabbalan, wa shifā’an min kulli dā’.
O Allah, I ask You for knowledge that is beneficial, provision that is abundant and a cure from every illness.
You may also make any other supplication of your choosing as it’s another station where Dua’s are accepted.
Multazam
After you have finished drinking Zamzam water, you may proceed to the Multazam which is the area between Hajar al-Aswad and the door of the Kaaba.
The Multazam is almost impossible to get to during Hajj season due to the large crowds that gather. However, it is accessible during other parts of the year.
If it is possible to reach the Multazam, raise your hands above your head, cling to the wall and press your chest and cheeks against it. It is a Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ and yet another station where supplications are accepted, so you should lengthen your Dua here.
If you can’t reach the Multazam due to the crowds, you may face it and supplicate from a distance.
Sa’i
It is a Sunnah to perform Sa’i immediately after Tawaf, although you may take a break if you need to. If you feel tired after Tawaf or your feet are aching, you may take a rest in the pavilion until you feel you’re ready. Remember, you will be covering over three kilometres during Sa’i, so make sure you have sufficient energy to complete the rite before starting.
For the Sa’i to be considered valid, the following is necessary:
- To perform Sa’i yourself.
- To have entered into Ihram before performing the Sa’i.
- To stay in Ihram until the Sa’i has been completed.
- To perform Sa’i at its correct time.
- To begin Sa’i at Safa and finish at Marwa.
- To perform Sa’i after having done Tawaf.
- To perform Sa’i on foot, unless you have a valid excuse.
- To perform seven laps.
- To cover the complete distance between Safa and Marwa.
Istilam of the Hajar al-Aswad
Before Sa’i, it is Sunnah to do Istilam of Hajar al-Aswad one last time. This will be the ninth time, following the eight times you performed Istilam during Tawaf.
If you’ve forgotten to perform this Istilam, or you’re finding it difficult to return to the line of the Hajar al-Aswad due to crowding or tiredness, it may be omitted. However, you can do Istilam anywhere else in Masjid al-Haram, as long as you’re facing the Hajar al-Aswad.
Proceed to Safa
Proceed to the hill of Safa, which is located in line with the Hajar al-Aswad. There is a white sign which indicates where it is. As you’re approaching Safa, it is Sunnah to recite the following:
ِإِنَّ الصَّفَا وَالْمَرْوَةَ مِن شَعَائِرِ اللَّهِ
Inna ṣ-ṣafā wa l-marwata min sha’ā’iri llāh(i).
Indeed, Safa and Marwa are from the Signs of Allah.
[Surah al-Baqarah, 2:158]
Then say:
أَبْدَأُ بِمَا بَدَأَ اللهُ بِهِ
Abda’u bimā bad’allahu bihi.
I begin with that which Allah has begun with.
These should only be recited once before Sa’i and not at the start of each lap.
Make Dua at Safa
Upon reaching the hill of Safa, face the direction of the Kaaba and raise your hands in supplication. Your view of the Kaaba will be obscured so make an educated guess about its location and face this direction. Don’t raise your hands up to your earlobes or gesture towards the Kaaba as you would have done during Tawaf. You may say Takbir (Allāhu akbar), Tahlil (lā ilāha illā Allāh) and send Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ.
It is Sunnah to recite the following Dua:
اَللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اَللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اَللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، وَلِلّٰهِ الْحَمْدُ
Allāhu akbar, Allāhu akbar, Allāhu akbar, wa lillāhi l-ḥamd.
Allah is the greatest; Allah is the greatest; Allah is the greatest, and to Allah belongs all praise.
لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لاَ شَرِيكَ لَهُ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ يُحْيِي وَيُمِيتُ، وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ
Lā ilāha illallāh waḥdahu lā sharīka lah(u), lahu l-mulku wa lahu l-ḥamdu yuḥyī wa yumīt(u), wa huwa ‘alā kulli shay’in qadīr.
There is no deity except Allah, alone without a partner. To Him belongs the Dominion, and to Him belongs all praise. He gives life and death and He has power over everything.
لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اَللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ، اَنْجَزَ وَعْدَهُ وَنَصَرَ عَبْدَهُ وَهَزَمَ اَلْأَحْزَابَ وَحْدَهُ
Lā ilāha illallāhu waḥdah(u), anjaza wa’dahu wa naṣara ‘abdahu wa hazama l-aḥzāba waḥdah.
There is no deity except Allah alone. He fulfilled His promise, supported His slave and defeated the confederates alone.
After reciting this Dua, you may recite your own supplications. Read the Dua a total of three times, making your own supplications in between each time, as was the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ.
Proceed to Marwa
From Safa, make your way towards Marwa. Between Safa and Marwa, you will encounter two sets of green fluorescent lights approximately 50 metres apart, which indicate the distance that Hajar ran in order to get to higher ground. These two markers are known as Milayn al-Akhdharayn (the two green mileposts). Between these two lights, it is Sunnah for men to run at a medium pace while women should continue normally.
Dhikr & Dua
There is no fixed Dhikr or Dua that has been prescribed to be read during Sa’i, so you may recite any prayers or supplications of your choice and send Salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ.
Make Dua at Marwa
Upon reaching the hill of Marwa, face the direction of the Kaaba, raise your hands in supplication and repeat the same supplications you recited at Safa.
This completes one lap of Sa’i. Returning back to Safa is considered a second lap.
End of Sa’i
Repeat this procedure until you have completed seven laps, at which point you should be at the hill of Marwa.
Dua and Salah
It is recommended to make a final Dua here and also to perform two Rakahs of Nafl Salah in Masjid al-Haram following Sa’i.
Leave the Haram
As you leave Masjid al-Haram, step out with your left foot and recite the following Dua, as was the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ when leaving the mosque:
بِسْمِ اللهِ وَالصَّلَاةُ وَالسَّلَّامُ عَلَى رَسُولِ اللهِ، اللَّهُمَّ إَنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ مِنْ فَضْلِكَ
Bismi llāhi, wa ṣ-ṣalātu wa s-salāmu ‘ala rasūli llāh. Allāhumma innī as’aluka min faḍlik.
In the name of Allah, and peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah. O Allah, I ask of you from Your bounty.
Halq or Taqsir
After Sa’i, you must have your hair shaved (Halq) or trimmed by at least an inch (Taqsir) in order to leave the state of Ihram and complete your Umrah. It is more virtuous for a man to have his head shaved completely.
Women may only have their hair trimmed.
Make sure you use a licensed barber rather than an unlicensed street barber. There are a number of licensed barbershops in Makkah, which are open 24 hours a day and generally only close during Salah times. There are many barbershops in the Zamzam Towers, Hilton shopping complex and al-Safwa Towers. You will also see many barbers located outside the Marwah door after you finish Sa’i. They are located directly to your left on the ground floor, or to your right if you exit from the middle floor.
Alternatively, you may shave or trim your own hair in order to come out of the state of Ihram.
Congratulations on your Umrah!
You are now free from the restrictions of Ihram and you may change into regular clothing. If you plan on performing another Umrah, you must travel to the boundary of the Haram in order to once again enter into Ihram. Most pilgrims choose to enter into Ihram at Masjid Aisha which is the nearest and most convenient location from Masjid al-Haram. Transportation to get there is available near the mosque.