Every great journey begins with a single step,” and your journey to Umrah in 2026 can start here. Maybe it’s your first time, and you’re feeling a little confused about how to get started, or maybe you’ve done Umrah before but want to feel more in-depth. This time the connection – this guide will help.
It’s made for Muslims living in the UK, so everything you need to know is explained step by step. You don’t need to feel confused or lost! From putting on Ihram to performing the beautiful Tawaf around the Kaaba and Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, we’ll share with you the best tips and facts that will effectively help you during this journey and make it better for you. We give all the details so you feel confident and focused.
It’s not just for men or just for women — it’s for everyone, young or old, experienced or New. This guide prepares you, with simple steps and clear understanding, to enjoy and feel the blessings of one of life’s most special journeys. Make 2026 your year for beautiful spiritual moments in Makkah and Madinah!
1. Preparing Spiritually for Umrah
Understanding the Importance of Umrah
Umrah is not just a trip to a holy city—it is a journey for your heart, your mind, and your soul. Some people call it the “lesser pilgrimage” when compared to Hajj, but the rewards are still so beautiful and important. Performing Umrah cleans your sins, gives you a fresh start, and helps you feel closer to Allah. As this blessed hadith says:
Hajj is wajib (obligatory) for those who can do it, but Umrah is a Sunnah that can be done any time in the year. This makes it more flexible, and this is part of what makes it so special for many people.
Dua and Intentions
Everything in Umrah begins with your intention, your intention. Without a clean and sincere heart, your journey cannot feel complete. Before you begin, you should sit with yourself and think deeply: Why are you going? Is it to seek forgiveness, to give thanks, or to feel close to Allah? When you are ready, say the Talbiyah and supplications with all your heart.
Because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) has made it clear in this blessed hadith that a person gets what he desires and intends.
Sahih al- Bukhari
Feel these words when you say them. Imagine standing before Kaaba, thinking only of Allah and nothing else.
Learning the Rituals
Before you go for Umrah, learn about the rituals. This will make you confident and relaxed when you are performing them.
- Ihram: This is not just clothing; it is a big promise to Allah. Men wear two simple white clothes, and women wear modest clothing that covers them, except for their hands and faces. In Ihram, all people are equal—rich or poor, young or old—standing together in humility.
- Tawaf: Walking around the Kaaba seven times is not just movement. It is like saying, “Allah is the centre of my life.” With every step, you are praying and feeling connected.
- Sa’i: You walk back and forth between the two small hills, Safa and Marwah, seven times. This honours the story of Hajar (RA), who ran in search of water for her son, trusting completely in Allah.
- Halq/Taqsir: At the end, you either shave your head (for men) or cut a small amount of hair (for men and women). This shows humility, that you are ready to start fresh and let go of pride.
Preparing for these rituals is not just about following steps. It’s about understanding them in your heart. Every action, every dua, becomes more meaningful. This is not only a trip for you; it is your moment with Allah.
2. Essentials of Ihram
When and Where to Wear Ihram
Starting the journey of Umrah means entering Ihram, a special spiritual state of purity and dedication to Allah. But first, you must know about Miqat, the boundary where pilgrims put on Ihram and make their intentions. Miqat changes depending on where you are coming from:
Pilgrims must wear Ihram before they pass Miqat. This is a special boundary, and crossing it without Ihram is not allowed because it is the start of a spiritual journey.
- Dhu Al-Hulayfah, people also call it Abyar Ali, is Miqat for people who live in Medina or those who come from this way.
- Al-Juhfah, close to Rabigh, is Miqat for travellers from Syria, Egypt, and others arriving from these directions.
- Qarn Al-Manazil, which some call Al-Sayl, is the Miqat for those coming from Najd or places nearby.
- Yalamlam, also with the name Al-Sa‘diah, is where people from Yemen and surrounding areas must enter the Ihram.
- For travellers from Iraq and the areas close to it, the Miqat they must follow is Dhat Irq, where they prepare for Umrah or Hajj.
Wearing Ihram Attire
Ihram attire is not about fashion; it is about showing humbleness and leaving behind worldly concerns.
For men:
Ihram is two unstitched white cloths. The Izar wraps around the waist, and the Rida goes over the shoulders. These plain garments symbolise purity and equality, reminding us that before Allah, all people are the same.
The method of wearing Ihram is shown in the following pictures which will help you:
during Ihram, one should choose shoes that meet the restrictions of Ihram, such as flip-flops or sandals and other shoes. The heels and ankles should not be covered.
For women:
There are no specific restrictions for women, as there are for men, except that during Ihram they should wear comfortable and simple clothing that covers their entire body, except for the face and hands. They can also wear comfortable shoes. The focus is on simplicity and avoiding bright or eye-catching clothing. As worn by ordinary Muslim women, as shown in the picture.
Before wearing Ihram, take a bath (ghusl), trim nails, and remove unwanted hair. This helps prepare your body and mind for the sacred state.
Prohibited Actions During Ihram
Ihram comes with responsibilities. Some everyday actions become forbidden while in this sacred state, such as:
- Cutting or trimming hair and nails.
- Using perfumes, scented soaps, or oils.
- Hunting animals or harming any living creature.
- Engaging in marital relations or romantic behaviour.
- Wearing stitched or fitted clothing (for men).
- Covering the head (for men) or the face and hands (for women).
- Fighting, arguing, or using bad words.
- Damaging or cutting plants in the holy areas.
- If any rule is broken, a penalty like offering a sacrifice or charity is required.
Niyyah and Talbiyah
Intention is the first and most important step of Ihram. You can do it with your tongue or with your heart. Also, after putting on Ihram, or if possible, before, praying two rak’ahs of prayer.
“Labbaik Allahumma Umrah”
(“O Allah, I am here for Umrah”).
After making your intention, start reciting the Talbiyah, a beautiful prayer that shows your submission to Allah:
Repeat the Talbiyah with a heart full of devotion and humility. Each word brings you closer to Allah, reminding you that this journey is about Him alone.
Ihram is more than just putting on simple clothes or following rules. It is about preparing your soul for a sacred meeting with Allah. When you enter Ihram, you leave behind the distractions of the world and focus only on your faith, making every moment of your journey special and pure.
3. Arriving at Masjid Al-Haram
To step into Masjid Al-Haram is not just to enter a mosque; it is to walk into a space that humbles the soul and brings tears to the eyes. It is a moment when the heart feels closest to Allah, and every prayer feels powerful.
Entering the Masjid Al-Haram
Before going inside, pause for a little. Think about where you are. This is not an ordinary building; it is a sacred place, the heart of Islam. As you draw closer to the Haram’s limits, continuously utter the Talbiyah, perform dhikr, and offer Salawat to the Prophet ﷺ. Upon stepping into the Haram, it is encouraged to recite this dua.
Advice: Bring a bag with strings for your shoes. Keep them with you always because it is easy for shoes to get lost.
Use Right Foot First: Start your steps into the mosque with the right foot. This is a tradition of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and shows you are beginning a good deed.
Say a Prayer for Entry:
Important Points:
Tawaf acts as your “greeting” to Masjid al-Haram. If you plan to do Tawaf immediately, there is no need to pray Tahiyyat al-Masjid.
If Tawaf is not your first intention, you are allowed to perform Tahiyyat al-Masjid instead.
Walking in front of those praying inside Masjid al-Haram is allowed, but you should avoid stepping on the area where they prostrate.
Seeing the Kaaba for the First Time
As you enter, keep your head slightly down. Focus your heart and prepare for the big moment: when your eyes will meet the Ka’bah. The first sight of the Ka’bah is not something anyone forgets. People cry, smile, and feel so many emotions all at once. It is a time to make the most personal and deep prayers to Allah.
Breathe and Take It In: Before looking up at the Ka’bah, take a deep breath and steady your heart.This is a special moment that Muslims believe is the time when prayers are answered.
Make Dua: Many pilgrims say this prayer when they see the Ka’bah:
When you enter Masjid Al-Haram like this, your heart feels alive. It is not just a visit; it is the beginning of a journey that will stay in your heart forever.
4. Performing Tawaf
Tawaf, it is like the most beautiful dance of devotion, where the heart moves closer to Allah with every step. This act, so central to Umrah, is to walk around the Ka’bah, the House of Allah, in Masjid al-Haram’s beating heart.
What is Tawaf:
Since the days of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him), Tawaf has been a sign of love and surrender to Allah. The way Muslims walk around the Ka’bah, it mirrors angels circling Allah’s Throne above the heavens. Every step is not just walking—it is like cleaning the soul, making the heart shine, and growing faith bigger.
Step-by-Step Tawaf:
Start at the Black Stone (Hajr-e-Aswad):
Go to the corner where Black Stone is sitting. If possible, touch or kiss it with respect. If the crowd is too many, just raise your hand towards it and say, “Bismillah Allahu Akbar.” If there’s a chance, kissing it is a blessing, but don’t shove or hurt anyone in the rush—it’s not worth it.
Raml
In the first three rounds of Tawaf, men should try to do Raml, which means walking fast, lifting their legs high, and sticking out their chest. But, if it’s crowded, especially near the Kaaba, only do it if you’re sure it won’t bother or hurt others. At busy times, it might not be possible to do Raml.
NOTE: If you want to try to kiss or touch Hajar al-Aswad, you must understand that it can be very difficult. Many people gather around the stone, and often there is a lot of pushing and shoving, which can cause harm. It’s almost impossible to get to Hajar al-Aswad without having to push through others who are also trying to reach it. Because of this, it is safer to simply salute the stone from a distance with Istilam, which is a respectful way to honor it without risking injury.
For men, you must take the top sheet of Ihram and pass it under your right arm so the right shoulder stays uncovered, while the cloth falls over the left shoulder (Idtiba). Also, be sure you are in the wudhu state before doing this.
Walk Counterclockwise:
Move left around the Ka’bah, going seven circles. Each one starts and ends at the Black Stone.
Say Duas While Walking:
There are no strict duas for Tawaf. You talk to Allah with verses from the Quran, your own heart words, or ask forgiveness. A famous dua is between Yemeni Corner and Black Stone:
Respect the Space: Keep your mouth quiet, and let your heart speak in whispers. Do not disturb the holy calm.
No Pushing or Shoving: At Black Stone, the crowd can get tight. But no need to push. Allah sees your effort, even if you don’t touch the stone.
Dress Properly: Wear clothing that is modest and comfortable. If you walk long, good shoes help feet.
Make Every Step Prayerful: Forget the world, focus on Ka’bah, and let your prayers flow like rivers from your lips.
Tawaf is more than legs walking—it is the soul flying higher to Allah. In this sacred moment, you feel you are not alone. Millions of Muslims, past and present, have done the same walk. It is unity, it is love, it is submission. And most importantly, it is a memory you will carry forever in your heart.
After completing the Tawaf, proceed to Maqam Ibrahim. Completion of Tawaf. Cover your right shoulder and pray two rak’ahs, after the Fatiha recite: Surah Al-Kafirun in the first rak’ah and Surah Ikhlas in the second rak’ah. If possible, the optional prayer behind Maqam Ibrahim is called Tahiyyat al-Tawaf. Known as Tahiyyat al-Tawaf, it is ideally performed behind Maqam Ibrahim, if possible.
If the crowd is very large, you can pray in any corner of the mosque and then proceed to Zamzam, which you will find around the mosque, and drink Zamzam water there, because there is healing in it, as is clear from the blessed sayings of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).
5. Performing Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwah)
Sa’i is not simply walking back and forth; it is a journey full of emotions, remembering the great story of Hajar (AS) and her strong faith in Allah. Her search for water for her baby, Ismail (AS), teaches lessons of patience and reliance on Allah’s help, even in the hardest times.
Historical Context
Hajar (AS) was left in the desert with no water or food, only her faith in Allah to guide her. Running between Safa and Marwah, she looked for any sign of water for her thirsty child. This effort was not wasted, as the Angel Jibreel (AS) revealed the Zamzam spring, a miracle that still provides water today. Sa’i honours her struggle and devotion, reminding us all to trust Allah, no matter what.
Step-by-Step Sa’i
- Begin at Safa
Stand at Safa, face the Kaaba, and say:
“Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah.”
Pray here and ask Allah for guidance and blessings.
- Walk to Marwah
Start walking at a normal pace, but when reaching the green lights, men should run a little to follow Hajar’s urgent search. However, women should walk at their normal speed.
- Reach Marwah
Once at Marwah, pause to face the Kaaba again. You can pray here too, pouring your heart out to Allah.
- Repeat Seven Times
Go back to Safa and continue this back-and-forth journey until you finish seven circuits. Remember, every trip from Safa to Marwah or from Marwah to Safa counts as one round.
- Show respect and patience:
Sa’i is a time of worship and reflection. Do not rush or push, even if it is crowded. Be gentle with others because everyone is there for the same sacred purpose.
Stay Humble
Think about Hajar’s (AS) struggle and let it inspire you to strengthen your own trust in Allah.
Interesting Facts
A Symbol of Strength: Hajar’s (AS) story reminds us that with faith, even the impossible becomes possible.
Global Unity: Pilgrims from every corner of the world perform Sa’i, showing that Islam unites all believers under one purpose.
Preserved Through Time: The path of Safa and Marwah is the same, but modern facilities ensure that this ancient practice remains accessible to everyone.
Sa’i teaches us to keep walking, keep praying, and keep trusting Allah, no matter how challenging life gets. It is a journey that leaves every pilgrim inspired, humbled, and closer to Allah.
6. Completing Umrah with Halq/Taqsir
Importance of Halq and Taqsir:
Halq and Taqsir are the final acts of completing Umrah, filled with deep meaning. These steps demonstrate your humility, submission to Allah, and spiritual cleansing. For men, shaving the head (halq) or cutting off a small section of hair (taqsir) is a sign of starting anew, leaving behind mistakes and worldly concerns.
- For men, Halq means shaving all hair, a sign of complete surrender to Allah. Taqsir is when a man cuts off just a small section of his hair, a simple yet meaningful way to show devotion.
- For women, Taqsir is the only option. They cut off a small section of hair, usually about an inch, to show humility. It is not permissible for women to shave their heads during Umrah as it is only for men.
Differences between men and women:
For men, Halq and Taqsir are different. Halq is a complete shave, which has a very deep meaning, while Taqsir is a haircut, which is still important. For women, only Taqsir is allowed, a submission to Allah without shaving.
Interesting facts:
Halq as a sign of humility: Shaving the head (halq) is seen as a strong sign of humility in many cultures. In Umrah, it shows the pilgrim’s complete submission to Allah, leaving behind pride and worldly distractions.
Dua after Halq or Taqsir: It is a good deed to offer two rak’ahs of prayer after completing Halq or Taqsir, thanking Allah for completing Umrah and seeking His forgiveness and guidance.
A new beginning: Halq and Taqsir represent the end of one journey and the beginning of a new one. After completing Umrah, pilgrims feel spiritually renewed, free from the burden of past mistakes, and ready to live life with greater faith and devotion.
A connection with all pilgrims: When a pilgrim performs Halq or Taqsir, they become part of a global community of Muslims, all expressing their devotion to Allah. This ritual connects them with all Muslims who have done so before them, all united in submission and purification.
Halq and Taqsir are not just stages of completion of Umrah. They represent a spiritual transformation, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another, filled with faith and hope for the future.
7. Tips for a Rewarding Umrah Experience
- Practical Tips:Best times for worship: If you want to avoid crowds, try to perform Tawaf and Sahih early in the morning or late at night as these are the best times when there are fewer crowds of people. These times are quieter, making your experience more peaceful.
- Stay hydrated and manage health: Umrah can be very tiring, especially during the summer months, and it can be even more difficult during the holy month of Ramadan. This weather is like honey on gold. This month is blessed with endless blessings, but it also sees a lot of crowds. Make sure to drink plenty of water, wear light clothes, and take breaks when needed to stay fresh and healthy.
Spiritual Tips:
- Focus on worship: Try to avoid distractions like your phone. Use this time to concentrate on your prayers, supplications, and moments of reflection. It will help you connect more deeply with Allah.
- Acts of kindness and charity: While in Makkah and Medina, take the opportunity to give charity and help others. The reward for good deeds is much greater during Umrah.
- Interesting Facts:
- Quiet moments are precious: The quiet moments when you are alone in your thoughts, whether during Tawaf or prayers, are often the times you feel closest to Allah. Use these moments for deep reflection and connection.
- Charity is highly rewarded: Giving charity in Makkah and Medina has a special place. Whether donating or helping someone in need, it purifies your heart and brings you closer to Allah.
By balancing your physical well-being and spiritual focus, your Umrah experience will become more meaningful and transformative.
10. Common Mistakes to Avoid During Umrah
Conclusion
Going for Umrah, it is not just travel, but a deep journey for your soul. You begin with clean heart, in Ihram, a sign of pure devotion. When you walk around the Kaaba, you feel your heart beat with all others, united in worship of Allah. As you walk between Safa and Marwah in Sa’i, you think of Hajar (AS), remembering her strong faith and trust in Allah’s mercy. When you do Halq or Taqsir, cutting your hair, it is like you are leaving behind everything from this world. Umrah is not only about the steps you do, but it is a moment for your spirit to be renewed, and to grow closer to Allah. Every step is full of peace, and you feel Allah near, making your heart calm and your faith strong.
FAQ:
1.When should one perform Umrah?
Umrah should be performed when the attendance is not too high. When Umrah’s performance might be demanding, there is increased congestion during certain months, including those of Hajj, Ramadan, and the children’s holidays. They are very crowded during the Hajj and Ramadan but not as congested as they would be throughout the year. Still, Ramadan is the most exceptional time to complete; every prayer has more value—especially in the last ten days.
- Can I do Umrah if I am not very fit?
Is it recommended that you consult a doctor before performing Umrah if you have any health issues? 3. During rituals, such as Tawaf and Sa’i, taking your time and rest when necessary is permissible to avoid becoming overly tired. 4. It is permissible to perform Umrah even if your health is not ideal, but it is still recommended.
- Is it possible for women to do Umrah without Mahram?
It is quite acceptable for women to undertake Umrah in groups or alone. A Mahram (male guardian) must be on board if they are under 45. Umrah may be performed by older ladies or in groups, even without a Mahram.
- What does Tawaf mean?
Walking around the Kaaba seven times in a circle, counterclockwise, Tawaf is a crucial act of prayer. It demonstrates how one God is worshipped by all Muslims, who are, therefore, unified. This deed helps you to exhibit Allah’s subservience and rejuvenate your spirits.
- How should I get ready for Umrah?
Prepare by first really intending to go. Discover the customs, pray for a smooth travel, and make sure your funds and records are ready. Light packing is also beneficial so you avoid carrying too much and ensure you have what you need for the journey.
- In case I make an error during Umrah?
If someone makes a mistake during Umrah, there is a fine for it. To correct any errors, you can make a sacrifice—that of an animal sacrifice. Remember, nevertheless, Allah is very merciful. Hence, the most important thing is to do your best to follow the customs correctly.
- Can I Umrah for someone else?
Indeed, you may conduct Umrah for another person, like a deceased family member. You do this with the same love and care as if you were doing it for yourself.
- How should I do the Sa’i between Marwah and Safa?
You go seven times between Safa and Marwah in the Sa’i. It recalls Hajar (AS) searching for water for her kid, Ismail. Do the Sa’i with great focus and consider how Hajar relied on Allah’s kindness.
