Step by Step Guide of Umrah
Introduction
Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey that millions of Muslims from around the world undertake to the sacred cities of Makkah and Madinah. Unlike Hajj, Umrah is not obligatory but highly recommended. Performing Umrah offers a unique opportunity to cleanse the soul, renew faith, and connect directly with the heritage of Islam. This Umrah Guide is a comprehensive and practical roadmap based on real-life experience, designed to walk you through the entire process — from preparation to completion — with confidence, sincerity, and devotion.
As a team at Five Star Tourism, having guided hundreds of pilgrims over the years, we understand the questions and uncertainties that come up. This simple Umrah guide will not only explain “What is Umrah” but also break down each step of the Umrah rituals with clarity and compassion.
Let’s begin this sacred journey — one step at a time.
Understanding Umrah
What is Umrah?
Umrah, often referred to as the “lesser pilgrimage,” is a form of worship that can be performed at any time of the year. It involves a series of sacred rituals carried out in Makkah. While Hajj is performed annually during specific days of Dhul-Hijjah, Umrah can be performed at any time and brings immense spiritual rewards.
Key Components of Umrah:
Intention (Niyyah)
Wearing Ihram
Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba)
Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah)
Tahallul (shaving or trimming the hair)
These rituals represent submission, remembrance of Allah, and spiritual renewal.
Spiritual Significance
Umrah is a spiritual detox. It gives you the chance to break away from the worldly distractions and return with a clean slate. As Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“The performance of Umrah is an expiation for the sins committed between it and the previous one.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
Before You Go: Preparation is Key
Passport, Visa, and Documents
To begin your journey, ensure you have the following:
Valid passport (6+ months validity)
Umrah visa or e-visa (if eligible)
Hotel and flight bookings
COVID-19 vaccination certificate (if still required)
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Work with a licensed Umrah operator like Five Star Tourism to ensure a smooth visa process.
Packing List for Umrah
Essentials:
Ihram garments (2 white unstitched cloths for men; modest clothes for women)
Slippers/sandals
Toiletries (unscented)
Prayer mat and small Qur’an
Medical supplies (medications, band-aids, etc.)
Reusable water bottle for Zamzam water
Face masks and sanitizer (as needed)
Avoid overpacking. Focus on what’s necessary — the rest can be bought there easily.
Booking Accommodation & Flights
Book early for better rates and proximity to Masjid al-Haram. Our clients often ask, “How to book Umrah taxi to move around Makkah or Madinah?” With Five Star Tourism, we provide reliable airport pickups and city transfers as part of your package.
Pro tip: Stay within walking distance from the Haram to save time and energy.
Ihram and Niyyah (Intention)
Where and When to Wear Ihram
The Ihram must be worn before crossing the Miqat (specific boundary points). These points vary depending on your arrival location. For example:
From Pakistan/India: Dhul-Hulayfah (if stopping in Madinah)
By air: Your pilot will announce it, and you can change into Ihram before takeoff or during the flight
For men: Two unstitched white cloths. For women: Modest dress without specific color but covering all awrah.
Making Niyyah for Umrah
At the Miqat, make your intention (Niyyah):
“Labbayka ‘Umrah” (O Allah, here I am to perform Umrah)
Then begin the Talbiyah:
“Labbayka Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka Laa Shareeka Laka Labbayk…”
Recite it often and with feeling — it is your declaration of devotion.
Entering Makkah and Performing Tawaf
Arriving in Makkah
Upon entering the city, remember this is a place where every good deed is multiplied. Maintain dignity, gratitude, and a focus on your purpose.
Once settled in your hotel:
Perform ghusl (full body wash) if possible
Ensure you remain in the state of Ihram
Head toward Masjid al-Haram
Performing Tawaf
Tawaf is walking around the Kaaba 7 times counterclockwise.
Steps:
Start at the Black Stone (Hajr al-Aswad)
Say “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” and begin your first circuit
Complete 7 circuits with prayers and dua (not fixed, recite whatever touches your heart)
After finishing, pray 2 rakats behind Maqam Ibrahim (if space is available)
Pro tip: Stay calm and patient; it’s not about speed but sincerity.
Sa’i Between Safa and Marwah
The Walk of Remembrance
After Tawaf, head to Safa and Marwah for Sa’i – a symbolic re-enactment of Hajar’s search for water.
Steps:
Begin at Safa, face the Kaaba, raise your hands, and praise Allah
Walk to Marwah (approx. 400 meters)
Between the green lights, men jog; women continue walking
Repeat this walk 7 times (Safa to Marwah = 1, Marwah to Safa = 2, etc.)
End at Marwah, make heartfelt duas. Your Sa’i is complete.
Tahallul and Completion of Umrah
Shaving or Trimming Hair
For men: Shave (preferred) or trim hair.
For women: Cut a fingertip’s length from the end of each braid or clump of hair.
With this, your Umrah is complete. You are now out of the state of Ihram.
Reflecting After Umrah
Don’t rush back into worldly matters. Spend time in Masjid al-Haram, pray extra rakats, read Qur’an, and perform voluntary Tawaf if able.
Remember:
Your dua is accepted in Makkah
Every prayer in Masjid al-Haram equals 100,000 prayers elsewhere
Common Questions and Practical Advice
How to Book Umrah Taxi Easily
Use trusted services like Five Star Tourism to arrange airport pickups and intercity travel. Confirm with your travel agent beforehand.
In Makkah and Madinah, Uber, Careem, and local hotel concierge desks are reliable options.
Travel Tips Based on Experience
Stay hydrated, especially in summer
Carry a pocket Quran and duas list
Use unscented wet wipes to freshen up during Ihram
Avoid arguments or distractions — maintain peace and focus
Try to perform multiple Umrahs if time and energy allow
Conclusion
Performing Umrah is not just a physical journey — it’s an emotional, mental, and spiritual transformation. This Complete Step by Step Umrah guide is designed to help you prepare effectively, perform confidently, and return spiritually enriched. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, every Umrah is unique.
At Five Star Tourism, we don’t just plan trips; we guide spiritual experiences. From Umrah rituals to how to book Umrah taxi, we ensure your journey is smooth, meaningful, and memorable.
May Allah accept your Umrah and write you among His beloved guests.