Umrah Rituals Step by Step 2026: Complete Guide from Ihram to Completion

What Are the Umrah Rituals?

Umrah rituals (Manasik Al-Umrah) are the Islamic acts of worship performed when visiting the Sacred Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) in Makkah. Umrah is a highly recommended Sunnah that can be performed at any time of the year. It consists of four essential pillars: Ihram, Tawaf, Sa'i, and Halq or Taqsir.

In this guide, we explain the Umrah rituals step by step in a simple, practical way with recommended supplications and important tips for each step.

If this is your first Umrah, also read our dedicated guide: First-Time Umrah Guide — Everything You Need to Know.

The Four Pillars of Umrah

Ihram — Entering the state of ritual consecration
Tawaf — Seven circuits around the Kaaba
Sa'i — Seven laps between Safa and Marwah
Halq or Taqsir — Shaving or trimming the hair

Step 1: Ihram

What Is Ihram?

Ihram is the intention to enter the state of Umrah worship — not merely wearing white garments. It begins at the designated Miqat (for Egyptians, usually Al-Juhfah/Rabigh or when the plane passes over the Miqat).

How to Enter Ihram

Perform Ghusl: Take a full bath (like Ghusl al-Janabah) — a confirmed Sunnah
Wear Ihram garments: Men: two white unstitched cloths (Izar and Rida). Women: regular modest clothing covering everything except face and hands
Apply perfume: Men may perfume their body (not clothing) before making the intention
Pray two Rak'ahs: Voluntary prayer for Ihram
Make the intention and recite Talbiyah: Intend Umrah in your heart and say: "Labbayk Allahumma Umrah"

The Talbiyah

"Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la shareeka laka labbayk, innal-hamda wan-ni'mata laka wal-mulk, la shareeka lak"

Men recite it aloud continuously until beginning Tawaf.

Prohibitions During Ihram

Men cannot wear stitched clothing, socks, or closed shoes
No applying perfume after entering Ihram
No cutting hair or nails
No hunting
No marriage contracts

Step 2: Tawaf

What Is Tawaf?

Tawaf is circling the Kaaba seven times counterclockwise, starting and ending at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad).

How to Perform Tawaf

Ensure Wudu: You must be in a state of ablution
Idtiba': Men only — expose the right shoulder by tucking the Rida under the right armpit
Touch the Black Stone: Kiss it if possible, or point toward it with your right hand saying "Bismillah, Allahu Akbar"
Begin Tawaf: Keep the Kaaba on your left and complete 7 full circuits
Raml: Walk briskly in the first three circuits only (for men)
Supplicate: Make any du'a you wish. Between the Yemeni Corner and Black Stone, recite: "Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah wa fil-akhirati hasanah wa qina 'adhab an-nar"
After Tawaf: Pray two Rak'ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim (if possible), reciting Surah Al-Kafirun and Al-Ikhlas
Drink Zamzam water: Make du'a while drinking

Step 3: Sa'i Between Safa and Marwah

What Is Sa'i?

Sa'i is walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times, commemorating the actions of Hajar (wife of Prophet Ibrahim).

How to Perform Sa'i

Start from Safa: Ascend Safa, face the Kaaba, and recite: "Innas-Safa wal-Marwata min sha'a'irillah"
Raise your hands and make du'a: Glorify Allah and supplicate three times
Walk to Marwah: At the green lights, men should jog (Harwalah)
Ascend Marwah: Do the same as on Safa — face the Qiblah and supplicate
Repeat: Safa to Marwah = 1 circuit. Marwah to Safa = 1 circuit. Total: 7 circuits, ending at Marwah

Step 4: Halq or Taqsir

Men: Shave the entire head (preferred) or trim hair from all sides equally
Women: Cut fingertip-length (2-3 cm) from the ends of the hair — women do not shave their heads

After this step, you have completed Umrah and all Ihram restrictions are lifted.

Difference Between Umrah and Hajj Rituals

Umrah rituals are simpler than Hajj. Hajj additionally includes standing at Arafat, staying overnight at Muzdalifah and Mina, and stoning the Jamarat. For full details: Hajj vs. Umrah — Complete Guide.

To learn about Hajj pricing and expected costs, read: Hajj Price 2026 from Egypt.

Golden Tips for Performing Umrah

Learn the rituals beforehand: Watch educational videos and memorize key supplications
Wear comfortable shoes: You'll walk extensively — choose comfortable medical footwear
Stay hydrated: Dehydration is common, especially in summer
Be patient: Crowds are part of the experience — remain patient and mindful
Use every moment for du'a: Maximize your supplications and dhikr
Don't forget your visa: Ensure you obtain your Electronic Umrah Visa before traveling