How to Perform Umrah Step by Step - Complete Guide 2026

Embarking Embarking on the sacred journey of Umrah is a profound spiritual milestone for every Muslim. Unlike Hajj, which has specific dates, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, offering a flexible yet deeply rewarding opportunity to cleanse the soul and seek closeness to Allah (SWT). If you are planning your pilgrimage in 2026, understanding how to perform Umrah step by step is essential to ensure your rituals are accepted and your journey is seamless. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know—from pre-travel preparations and entering the state of Ihram to the final acts of Halq or Taqsir. Whether you are a first-timer or seeking a refresher on the latest 2026 Saudi regulations, this guide by Karama Travel will equip you with the knowledge and confidence for a spiritually fulfilling experience.

Preparation Before Travel

Before you even pack your bags, the journey of Umrah begins in the heart and mind. Proper preparation ensures that you can focus entirely on your worship once you arrive in the holy cities.

Spiritual Preparation

The most crucial aspect of your preparation is purifying your intention (Niyyah). Your Umrah must be solely for the sake of Allah (SWT), free from any worldly desires or showing off. Spend time repenting for past sins, seeking forgiveness from those you may have wronged, and resolving any outstanding debts. Engage in regular prayers, read the Quran, and familiarize yourself with the Umrah Dua (supplications) that you will recite during the rituals.

Practical and Legal Requirements for 2026

Saudi Arabia has introduced several updates for pilgrims in 2026. It is mandatory to download and register on the Nusuk app, which is the official platform for managing your Umrah permits and accessing the Rawdah in Al-Masjid an-Nabawi. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of travel. Depending on your nationality, you may need an Umrah visa, a tourist visa, or an electronic visa waiver. Additionally, verify the latest health requirements, including any mandatory vaccinations, and ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance.

Packing Essentials

Pack light but smart. For men, the Ihram garments (two unstitched white cloths) are essential. Women should pack modest, comfortable clothing that covers the entire body except for the face and hands. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you will be covering significant distances during Tawaf and Sa'i. Don't forget a small unscented soap, a travel prayer mat, a refillable water bottle for Zamzam, and a power bank to keep your phone charged for the Nusuk app and digital guides.

Entering Ihram at the Miqat

The state of Ihram is a sacred state of purity and devotion that every pilgrim must enter before crossing the Miqat (the designated boundary).

What is the Miqat?

The Miqat is the geographical boundary that pilgrims must not cross without being in the state of Ihram. If you are flying directly to Jeddah, your flight will cross the Miqat in the air. The airline crew usually announces when the Miqat is approaching, allowing you to make your intention and enter Ihram. If you are traveling from Madinah to Makkah, your Miqat is Dhul Hulayfah (Abyar Ali).

Steps to Enter Ihram

1. Physical Purification: Before putting on the Ihram garments, it is Sunnah to clip your nails, remove unwanted body hair, take a thorough bath (Ghusl), and perform Wudu.
2. Wearing the Garments: Men wear the two white, unstitched cloths—one covering the lower body (Izar) and the other draped over the upper body (Rida). Women wear their regular modest clothing, ensuring it meets Islamic requirements.
3. Performing Salah: It is recommended to pray two Rakat of Sunnah for Ihram, provided it is not a disliked time for prayer.
4. Making the Intention (Niyyah): Recite the intention for Umrah: "Labbayk Allahumma Umrah" (O Allah, here I am to perform Umrah).
5. Reciting the Talbiyah: Immediately after the intention, begin reciting the Talbiyah: "Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk. Labbayk la sharika laka Labbayk. Innal-hamda wan-ni'mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika lak." Continue reciting this frequently until you reach the Kaaba.

Prohibitions of Ihram

Once in Ihram, certain actions become forbidden. These include cutting hair or nails, using scented products (perfume, scented soap), engaging in marital relations, hunting, and arguing or fighting. Men are also prohibited from wearing stitched clothing or covering their heads.

Tawaf Around the Kaaba

Upon arriving in Makkah and settling into your hotel, proceed to Al-Masjid al-Haram to perform Tawaf, which consists of circling the Kaaba seven times.

Entering the Mosque

Enter the mosque with your right foot and recite the supplication for entering a mosque. As you catch your first glimpse of the Kaaba, pause and make a heartfelt Dua, as it is believed that supplications made at this moment are accepted.

Performing the Seven Rounds

1. Starting Point: Proceed to the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad). If possible, kiss or touch it. Given the crowds, it is perfectly acceptable to point towards it with your right hand and say "Bismillahi Allahu Akbar."
2. The Circumambulation: Keep the Kaaba on your left side and begin walking counterclockwise. Men should uncover their right shoulder (Idtiba) and walk briskly (Raml) during the first three rounds.
3. Supplications: There are no fixed Duas for each round. Recite Quran, make personal supplications, or do Dhikr. Between the Yemeni Corner and the Black Stone, it is Sunnah to recite: "Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina 'adhaban-nar."
4. Completion: Complete seven full rounds, ending each round at the Black Stone.

Praying at Maqam Ibrahim

After completing the Tawaf, cover your right shoulder (for men) and proceed to Maqam Ibrahim (the Station of Abraham). Recite the verse: "Wattakhidhu min maqami Ibrahima musalla." Pray two Rakat; it is Sunnah to recite Surah Al-Kafirun in the first Rakat and Surah Al-Ikhlas in the second.

Drinking Zamzam Water

Next, head to the Zamzam water stations. Drink deeply, as the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that Zamzam water is for whatever purpose it is drunk. Make Dua for health, knowledge, and forgiveness while drinking.

Sa'i Between Safa and Marwa

The next step is Sa'i, which involves walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, honoring the devotion of Hajar (AS).

Starting at Safa

Approach Mount Safa and recite: "Innas-safa wal-marwata min sha'a'irillah." Ascend the hill, face the Kaaba, raise your hands, and praise Allah. Recite: "Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lah, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu wa huwa 'ala kulli shai'in qadir."

The Walk to Marwa

Descend Safa and walk towards Marwa. When you reach the green lights (indicating the valley area), men should jog or walk at a faster pace, while women maintain their normal walking speed. Engage in continuous Dhikr and Dua throughout the walk.

Completing the Seven Laps

Reaching Marwa completes one lap. Ascend Marwa, face the Kaaba, and repeat the same supplications made at Safa. The walk back to Safa counts as the second lap. Continue this process until you complete seven laps, finishing at Mount Marwa.

Halq or Taqsir (Shaving or Trimming the Hair)

The final ritual of Umrah is the cutting of the hair, which symbolizes humility and the shedding of past sins.

Rules for Men

Men have the option of Halq (completely shaving the head) or Taqsir (trimming the hair evenly all over). Halq is highly recommended, as the Prophet (PBUH) prayed for forgiveness three times for those who shave their heads, and only once for those who trim.

Rules for Women

Women are only required to trim a small portion of their hair, approximately the length of a fingertip, from the end of their locks. This should be done in the privacy of their hotel room or a designated private area.

Once the hair is cut, the state of Ihram is officially lifted. All prohibitions are removed, and your Umrah is complete. May Allah accept it!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with careful preparation, pilgrims can sometimes make errors. Being aware of these common mistakes can help you avoid them:

• Crossing the Miqat without Ihram: This requires a penalty (Dam), which involves sacrificing an animal in Makkah.
• Taking photos during Tawaf: While capturing memories is natural, excessive photography can distract you and others from the spiritual focus of the ritual.
• Pushing and shoving: The crowds can be overwhelming, but maintaining patience and gentleness is crucial. Harming another Muslim to touch the Black Stone is strictly forbidden.
• Reciting Duas loudly in unison: Supplications should be made individually and quietly, maintaining a personal connection with Allah.

Useful Links

Book the Umrah package that suits you at Karama Travel. Also read the essential supplications and the packing list.