How to Perform Umrah for the First Time in Saudi Arabia


 

Introduction

Umrah is one of the most spiritual journeys a Muslim can undertake. Though it's not mandatory like Hajj, it offers immense blessings and the chance to purify the soul. For first-time pilgrims, the experience can be overwhelming if not properly planned. This guide will walk you through how to perform Umrah for the first time—from preparation to rituals, and everything in between.

What Is Umrah?

Umrah is a non-mandatory pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed any time of the year. It includes:

  1. Entering the state of Ihram

  2. Performing Tawaf (circling the Kaaba)

  3. Doing Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah)

  4. Shaving or trimming the hair (Halq or Taqsir)

Though it's simpler than Hajj, Umrah holds great spiritual significance and is often called the "lesser pilgrimage."

1. Spiritual Preparation

Before leaving for Umrah, it’s essential to spiritually prepare:

  • Purify your intention (Niyyah): Do it only for Allah.

  • Learn the rituals: Read or attend seminars about Umrah.

  • Repent and forgive: Ask Allah for forgiveness and make peace with others.

  • Make a dua list: Note down all your supplications.

  • Increase prayers, fasting, and charity.

2. Visa and Travel Requirements

  • Apply for an Umrah visa or Saudi tourist visa (during open periods).

  • Book your flight to Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International Airport) or Madinah.

  • Use authorized agents or apps like Nusuk.

  • Make hotel reservations close to Masjid al-Haram for ease of access.

3. What to Pack

  • Ihram clothes (2 white unstitched cloths for men, loose modest dress for women)

  • Comfortable sandals

  • Unscented toiletries (very important in Ihram)

  • Quran and Du’a books

  • Portable prayer mat

  • Power bank & SIM card

  • Personal ID and travel documents

4. Miqat – Declaring the Intention

Miqat is the station where pilgrims must don Ihram and declare their intention.

Popular Miqat Locations:

  • Dhul Hulaifah (Abyar Ali) – if coming from Madinah

  • Yalamlam – from India/Pakistan

  • Qarn al-Manazil – from Najd or Riyadh

Steps at Miqat:

  1. Take a bath (Ghusl) if possible.

  2. Wear your Ihram.

  3. Pray two rak’ah Sunnah prayer.

  4. Make Niyyah for Umrah:
    "Labbayka Umrah"

  5. Begin reciting Talbiyah:
    “Labbayk Allahumma labbayk...”

5. Arrival in Makkah

Once you arrive in Makkah:

  • Proceed directly to Masjid al-Haram.

  • Enter with your right foot and say:
    "Bismillah wa salatu wa salam ala Rasulillah"

  • Maintain reverence. You’re in one of the holiest places on Earth.

6. Performing Umrah – Step by Step

Step 1: Tawaf (Circumambulation of the Kaaba)

  • Perform 7 rounds anti-clockwise around the Kaaba.

  • Start from the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad).

  • Supplicate during each round. You can recite:
    “Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah wa fil akhirati hasanah wa qina ‘adhab an-nar.”

  • Complete Tawaf, then pray 2 rak’ah behind Maqam Ibrahim.

Step 2: Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwah)

  • Begin at Safa and face the Kaaba, praise Allah.

  • Walk to Marwah, and return—7 rounds in total.

  • Men jog between green lights.

  • Recite any dua or remembrance of Allah.

Step 3: Halq or Taqsir (Shaving/Trimming Hair)

  • Men: Shave (Halq) or trim (Taqsir) their head.

  • Women: Cut a small lock of hair (~1 inch).

  • This act completes your Umrah.

7. Post-Umrah Practices

  • Drink Zamzam water abundantly.

  • Continue praying in Masjid al-Haram.

  • Reflect and make as much dua as possible.

  • Visit Madinah if possible.

8. Visiting Madinah (Optional but Rewarding)

Though not part of Umrah, visiting Madinah is highly recommended.

Key Sites in Madinah:

  • Masjid an-Nabawi – The Prophet’s Mosque

  • Rawdah – A garden from the gardens of Paradise

  • Jannat al-Baqi – Graveyard of many Sahabah

  • Mount Uhud – Battle site

  • Quba Mosque – First mosque built in Islam

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Forgetting to make Niyyah at Miqat.

  • Speaking unnecessarily during Tawaf or Sa’i.

  • Using scented products while in Ihram.

  • Not completing the correct number of rounds.

  • Arguing or pushing others during rituals.

10. Practical Tips for First-Time Umrah Pilgrims

  • Start your rituals early in the day to avoid crowds.

  • Keep water and snacks with you.

  • Use Google Maps or printed maps to navigate hotels and gates.

  • Avoid taking selfies during rituals—it disrupts your focus.

  • Be kind and helpful to fellow pilgrims.

FAQs About Performing Umrah

Q: Can I perform multiple Umrahs in one trip?
A: Yes, but you must exit and re-enter Ihram from Miqat or Masjid Aisha.

Q: Is Umrah difficult for older adults?
A: Not if well-prepared. Wheelchairs and electric carts are available.

Q: Can children perform Umrah?
A: Yes, but the rituals must be completed correctly.

Conclusion

Performing Umrah is a sacred opportunity to renew your faith, seek forgiveness, and get closer to Allah. Whether you're visiting the Kaaba for the first time or guiding your family through the rituals, this journey will be one of the most memorable spiritual experiences of your life. May Allah accept your Umrah and grant you ease throughout.

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