Introduction — First Time Umrah Guide
Performing an Umrah for the first time is an extreme spiritual experience that every single second millions of Muslims dream of. Umrah can be performed at any time of the year and its rituals are very simple still equally rewarding. First timers often feel confused about the steps dua timings dress code and how to make sure that their Umrah is accepted.
This guide walks you through every step of Umrah from every kind of preparation to Umrah completion using a modern and easy to understand approach suitable for first timers.
What Is Umrah?
Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage to the Holy Kaaba in Makkah tul Mukarrama which includes simple and beautiful rituals:
- Ihram
- Tawaf circumambulating the Holy Kaaba
- Sa’i walking between the mounts of Safa and Marwah
- Halq or Taqsir shaving or trimming the hair as pilgrims prefer
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These rituals symbolize purity devotion unity and complete submission to the one and only Allah Almighty.
Before You Travel — Preparation Checklist
- Get a Valid Visa or Nusuk Permit
Most visitors require:
A Saudi Umrah Visa
OR
Entry visa + digital Nusuk permit during peak seasons
- Vaccinations & Health
Stay updated with:
- Meningitis vaccine
- Seasonal requirements (if any)
- Ihram Clothing
- Men: 2 white unstitched cloths
- Women: Modest dress following Islamic guidelines (not necessarily white)
- Learn Basic Duas First
Umrah does not require specific, fixed duas, but commonly recited ones help beginners remain focused and spiritual.
- Physical Preparation
Umrah involves long walks especially during the Tawaf and Sa’i.
First Time Pilgrims Should Prepare In Advance by:
- Walking daily
- Wearing comfortable footwear
- Keeping water with you
Step by Step Guide: How to Perform an Umrah for the First Time
1. Entering into Ihram
Ihram is a condition of purity and intention.
Where to Enter Ihram?
You must enter in Ihram at the Miqat which depends on where you travel from in some ways. If coming by air announcements are usually made before crossing the Miqat.
How to Enter the Ihram
- First of all Perform the Ghusl or at least the wudu
- Wear Ihram which includes men only while women use normal modest clothing
- Pray 2 rak’ahs and its optional
- Make the Niyyah and it is an intention of the pilgrim:
“Labbaik Allahumma Umrah.”
- Begin reciting Talbiyah:
“Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaik Laa Shareeka Laka Labbaik…”
Ihram Restrictions
- No cutting hair or nails
- No perfume
- No sexual activity
- No hunting
- No stitched clothing for men
2. Tawaf Circling around the Holy Kaaba
After entering Masjid al Haram with the dua of entering a mosque, proceed toward the Kaaba.
How to Perform Tawaf
- First face the Black Stone which is Hajar al-Aswad
- Then raise your hands towards your Allah Almighty and say:
“Bismillah Allahu Akbar.”
- Begin 7 counterclockwise rounds
- Men perform Raml (fast walking) in the first 3 rounds if possible
- Recite any duas you like or you remember the best dua between the Yemeni Corner and Black Stone which is the Hajar al Aswad is:
“Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanah wa fil-akhirati hasanah wa qina adhaban-nar.”
After Completing 7 Rounds
- Go behind Maqam Ibrahim
- Pray 2 rak’ahs (Sunnah)
- Drink Zamzam water and make dua
3. Sa’i — Walking Between Safa and Marwah
After Tawaf, proceed to Safa to begin Sa’i.
How to Perform Sa’i
- Stand at Safa, face the Kaaba and recite:
“Innas-Safa wal-Marwata min sha’a’irillah.”
- Make dua and start walking
- Walk from Safa to Marwah = 1 lap
- Complete 7 laps
(Ends at Marwah)
Men run lightly between the green lights; women do not run.
4. Halq or Taqsir — Shaving or Trimming Hair
The final step of Umrah.
For Men
- Halq (shaving) is most recommended
- Trimming is acceptable if returning for multiple Umrahs
For Women
- Trim a fingertip-sized portion of hair
After cutting hair, the Umrah is complete.
Important Tips for First Timers
- Stay Hydrated
The weather can be hot drink Aab e Zamzam and water frequently.
- Do not Rush
Perform every ritual calmly and with focus since you are first timers don’t miss out important rituals.
- Avoid Crowds if Possible
Late night or early morning hours are the best for Tawaf.
- Carry a Small Bag
Keep:
- Phone
- Water
- Prayer mat
- Slippers
- Learn Masjid al-Haram Entry & Exit Points
It helps prevent confusion and saves time.
What NOT to Do During Umrah
- Do not push others
- Do not argue or lose temper
- Do not try to kiss the Black Stone if the crowd is dangerous (Just a line for the self-loving people)
- Do not take unnecessary photos during Tawaf and maintain sanctity
Conclusion
Performing the Umrah for the first time is a life changing spiritual journey that fills the heart with peace closeness to Allah Almighty the real lord and spiritual renewal. With the proper preparation of every step or to say ritual and patience and understanding of each step of performing the Umrah first your Umrah will be smooth meaningful and accepted InshaAllah. Always remember that the beauty and inner peace of Umrah lies not just in rituals but what comes first is in the sincerity of your heart toward your Allah Almighty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time of the year to perform Umrah for the first time?
Off-peak months such as Muharram, Safar, and Sha’ban offer fewer crowds.
2. Can women perform First time Umrah alone?
Saudi rules now allow women to perform Umrah without a mahram depending on visa type.
3. Is there a fixed dua for every round of Tawaf?
No. You may recite any dua, dhikr, or Quran.
4. How long does Umrah take to complete?
Typically 2–5 hours, depending on crowds and personal pace and also on your first time experience.
5. Can I perform multiple Umrahs on one trip?
Yes, but Ihram must be worn again from a Miqat like Masjid Aisha.
6. What shoes should I wear?
Comfortable sandals that protect your feet yet allow wudu.
READ MORE : Iqama KSA