Your Umrah, step by step
A plain-language overview of the rites, what to pack and how to look after yourself, from the team at Fatima Tour & Travels.
What Umrah involves
Umrah is a shorter pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed outside the Hajj days. Most pilgrims also travel to Madinah to pray at Masjid an-Nabawi and visit its historic sites, so a typical trip includes both cities.
This page is a general overview to help you feel prepared. It does not replace the guidance of a qualified scholar or your group guide, who can answer questions specific to your situation.
- The rites of Umrah are done in a set order
- Most travellers spend time in both Makkah and Madinah
- Preparation makes the rites calmer and less tiring
Six steps of Umrah, in order
Ihram and intention
Pilgrims enter the state of ihram from the miqat and make the intention for Umrah. Men wear two unstitched white cloths; women wear modest, ordinary clothing.
Talbiyah
From ihram, pilgrims recite the talbiyah, the call that answers the invitation to the House of Allah, until they begin tawaf.
Tawaf
Seven circuits around the Kaaba, counter-clockwise, beginning and ending at the line of the Black Stone.
Prayer and Zamzam
After tawaf, pilgrims pray two rak'ahs near Maqam Ibrahim as the crowd allows, and drink Zamzam water.
Sa'i
Seven laps between the hills of Safa and Marwah, starting at Safa and finishing at Marwah.
Halq or Taqsir
The rites end with men shaving or trimming their hair, and women trimming a small portion, which releases the pilgrim from ihram.
How a typical Umrah journey flows
Before departure
Documents, vaccinations if required, bookings and a packed bag.
Arrival
Airport transfer, hotel check-in and rest after the journey.
Umrah rites
Ihram, tawaf, sa'i and the final trim, ideally when you are rested.
Madinah and Ziyarat
Prayers at Masjid an-Nabawi and visits to historic sites at an easy pace.
What to carry with you
Documents
Passport, visa copy, tickets, hotel details and a few passport-size photographs. Keep copies in a separate bag and a photo on your phone.
Clothing
Comfortable, modest clothing for the weather. Men should carry ihram sets. Light layers help in air-conditioned places.
Footwear
Well-fitting, easy-to-slip-off footwear. You will walk a lot, so comfort matters more than style.
Health items
Your regular medicines in original packaging, basic first aid and anything your doctor advises. Ask your doctor before you travel.
Phone and contacts
A charged phone, a power bank, our number and your hotel’s name and address saved where you can find them.
Comfort items
A small bag for daily carry, a refillable water bottle, unscented toiletries for ihram and a small prayer mat if you like.
Small habits that make a big difference
Helpful habits
- Keep your hotel card and our contact number on you
- Drink water regularly and rest between rites
- Stay with your group, and agree a meeting point
- Choose quieter times for tawaf if you are able
- Walk at your own pace and take breaks
Please avoid
- Pushing or rushing in crowded areas
- Leaving your group without telling someone
- Carrying more cash or valuables than you need
- Ignoring directions from mosque staff and security
- Overdoing it on the first day after a long journey
Common Umrah questions
When can Umrah be performed?
Umrah is not tied to fixed days the way Hajj is, but visa availability, hotel demand and flights change through the year. Contact us with your preferred month and we will tell you what is possible.
Do I need a guide for the rites?
It helps, especially the first time. Many pilgrims travel with a group guide or an experienced family member. We can talk you through the plan before you travel.
How long does Umrah take?
The rites themselves usually take several hours, depending on crowds and pace. Most trips include several days in Makkah and Madinah so you are not rushed.
Can elders and children perform Umrah?
Yes, with planning. Hotel distance, rest breaks and the right transport make a big difference, so tell us who is travelling.
Where can I ask about religious rulings?
For questions of fiqh, please ask a qualified scholar. We help with the travel and logistics.
Ready to plan your Umrah?
Tell us your dates and who is travelling, and we will suggest a package.