What Are The Rules For Umrah​? 17 Steps Every Pilgrim Needs

What are the rules for Umrah​? Many ask this before taking their first step. Do you really know what to do, when, and how? This simple guide walks you through each stage. From wearing Ihram to exiting it, each part has meaning. But which actions are required? Which ones can’t be skipped?you’ll find clear answers. No confusion. No guesswork. Just 17 steps every pilgrim must follow. Ready to begin?

What exactly is the umrah Definition?

Umrah is a sacred pilgrimage to Makkah that Muslims perform at any time. It involves simple rituals showing devotion and humility. The umrah definition includes entering Ihram, performing Tawaf, walking between Safa and Marwah, and ending with hair trimming.

These acts renew faith and bring spiritual peace. Each step connects you deeply with Allah. Understanding Umrah helps you prepare and perform it with sincerity and focus.

What Are the Rules for Umrah? A Simple Guide for Every Pilgrim

Before you travel, knowing what are the rules for umrah is essential. These steps help you prepare, perform each ritual correctly, and keep your journey smooth. While each point matters, following them together brings a peaceful and rewarding experience.

I will help you get ready. I walk you through each part in a way that’s easy to follow. Whether this is your first time or you need a refresher, every point here keeps you on track.

1. Enter the Ihram before Miqat

You must enter the state of Ihram before crossing the Miqat boundary. Your Umrah begins at this point.

2. Dress Properly

Men wear two white, unstitched cloths. Women wear modest clothes that cover the body, with no specific color required.

3. Make Intention (Niyyah)

Make your intention for Umrah and conduct ablution after putting on Ihram. Say it clearly in your heart and words.

4. Recite the Talbiyah

Repeat the Talbiyah often after entering the Ihram. This reminds you of your purpose and keeps your focus.

5. Avoid Prohibited Acts

Do not apply perfume, cut your nails, clip your hair, or engage in marital activities while wearing Ihram.. These rules keep your state pure.

6. Perform Tawaf

Begin at the Black Stone corner. Circle the Kaaba seven times, counter-clockwise. As you walk, keep the Kaaba to your left.

7. Pray After Tawaf

After Tawaf, pray two rak’ahs near the Station of Ibrahim if possible. This adds blessings to your Umrah.

8. Perform Sa’i

Begin at Safa, face the Kaaba, and make du‘a. Walk to Marwah and back seven times. Jog lightly between green markers (men only)

9. Complete with Hair Cutting

Men shave or trim their hair. Women cut a small portion. The Ihram state is terminated by this action.

10. Keep Clean and Respectful

Always maintain cleanliness and good manners. Avoid pushing or loud behavior, especially in crowded places.

11. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well

Drink water and eat healthy food to keep your energy up during the rituals.

12. Follow Group Instructions

If you travel with a group, stay close and follow your guide’s advice for a safer experience.

13. Be Patient and Helpful

Patience and kindness make the journey better for you and others. Help those who need it.

14. Recite Duas and Seek Blessings

Pray and ask for forgiveness during this time. The atmosphere is special for personal prayers.

15. Consult a Doctor if Needed

If you have health issues, talk to your doctor before going. Safety comes first.

16. Children’s Participation

Children under seven are usually not advised to perform Umrah due to the crowds and rituals.

17. Mind the Heat

Use sunscreen. Wear light clothes. Walk in shaded areas when you can.

What Are the Rules for Umrah? Step-by-Step

 

Step	What to Do	Key Points to Remember
Enter Ihram	Before Miqat, wear Ihram clothes	Marks the start of Umrah
Make Intention	Ablution and niyyah	Say intention clearly
Recite Talbiyah	Repeat after Ihram	Focus and purpose
Avoid Prohibitions	No cutting nails, perfume, or marital acts	Stay in a pure state
Tawaf	Circle the Kaaba seven times	Start at Black Stone
Pray After Tawaf	Two rak’ahs near the Station of Ibrahim	Extra blessings
Sa’i	Walk Safa to Marwah seven times	Men briskly walk between green lights
Hair Cutting	Men shave/trim, women cut a small portion	Ends Ihram
Cleanliness & Respect	Stay clean, polite, and avoid pushing	Good manners matter
Health & Safety	Hydrate, eat well, and consult a doctor if needed	Safety first

 

By following what are the rules for Umrah​, you make your pilgrimage smooth and meaningful. Each step connects you to the tradition and spirit of Islam.  For more guidance, Rahiq Academy offers expert-led Fiqh course to help you prepare and understand every ritual.

Key Prohibitions During Ihram

Category	Not Allowed	Why?	Penalty If Broken
Appearance	Stitched clothes (men), covering head/face (men), gloves (women)	Promotes equality; removes vanity	Sacrifice an animal, fast, or feed the poor
Grooming	Cutting hair/nails, using scented soap/perfume	Focuses on the purity of intention	Compensation (Fidyah) required
Behavior	Hunting, arguing, and intimacy	Maintains a sacred environment	Varies based on severity
Photography	Filming others praying, security areas	Protects privacy & sanctity	Fines or device confiscation

Special Cases Simplified

• Women: Can perform Umrah without a male guardian (Mahram) since 2022.
• Elderly/Disabled: Use wheelchairs in the Mataf (Tawaf area). Sa’i paths have ramps.

Types of Umrah

• Umrah al-Mufradah: Anytime except Hajj days (5-10 Dhul-Hijjah).
• Umrah al-Tammatu: Combined with Hajj during Shawwal, Dhul-Qadah, or Dhul-Hijjah.

Practical Tips

• Avoid Scams: Book only via Saudi’s Nusuk app. Third-party agents often cheat pilgrims.
• Shoe Safety: Carry a bag for shoes during prayers. Theft is common in mosques.
• Hydration: Saudi heat exceeds 105°F (41°C). Use electrolyte sachets.
• Jet Lag: Arrive 2-3 days early. Use sleep aids if needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overstaying: Umrah visas expire after 90 days. Fines reach thousands of dollars.
• Wrong Miqat: If missed, return to it or sacrifice an animal as a penalty.
• Touching the Black Stone: Don’t push through crowds. Pointing is acceptable.

Why These Rules Matter

Umrah’s rules aren’t restrictions—they’re tools. They strip away distractions so you connect deeply with Allah. Whether it’s seamless cloth or scent-free skin, each rule whispers: Be present. Be humble. For many, that’s life-changing.

Difference Between Umrah and Hajj: A Clear Guide Every Muslim Should Know

Many Muslims ask about the Difference Between Umrah and Hajj when planning their visit to Makkah. While both are sacred, they differ in time, rules, and reward. This guide helps you understand these differences simply and clearly. You’ll also learn what are the rules for Umrah​ are and how both acts strengthen your faith.

Key Differences in Brief

Here is the table formatted clearly:

Feature	Hajj	Umrah
Timing	Fixed (8–13 Dhul Hijjah)	Any time of the year
Obligation Level	Fard (once in a lifetime)	Sunnah (not compulsory)
Duration	5–6 days	2–3 hours
Main Rituals	Ihram, Arafat, Mina, Tawaf, Sa’i	Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, Haircut
Crowds	Very crowded	Less crowded
Penalty for Missing	Sinful if missed without excuse	No sin for not performing

 

Practical Differences to Remember

• Hajj occurs during specific Islamic dates, while Umrah can be done anytime.
• Umrah is shorter and easier, ideal for new travelers or those with limited time.
• Hajj is required once for every able Muslim. Umrah is optional but highly loved.

Umrah: Simple and Peaceful

• It  involves  Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, and trimming hair.
• These steps are done in a few hours, unlike the long Hajj journey.
• You can perform Umrah more than once in your life.

Hajj: A Pillar of Islam

• Hajj includes standing at Arafat, staying at Muzdalifah, and stoning the Jamarat.
• These are not part of Umrah.
• Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and has greater rewards.

Clothing and Preparation

• In both, Ihram is required. Women dress modestly and loosely, whereas men wear two white sheets.
• However, for Hajj, extra rules apply after entering Ihram.

Financial and Physical Effort

• Hajj is more costly and physically demanding.
• Umrah is less expensive and shorter.

Spiritual Rewards

• Hajj removes all past sins if done sincerely.
• Umrah brings great blessings, but does not replace Hajj.

When to Choose Umrah

• If you can’t go for Hajj due to health, money, or visa limits, Umrah is a good start.
• It helps you practice what are the rules for umrah​ and prepare for Hajj later.

Extra Tips for Travelers

• Always check your passport, visa, and vaccination requirements.
• Learn the steps of both Hajj and Umrah before traveling.
• Follow local guides or scholars for support.

 

Criteria	Hajj	Umrah
Time of Year	Dhul Hijjah (8–13)	Any time
Required or Optional	Required once in life	Optional but highly rewarded
Duration	5 to 6 days	2 to 3 hours
Steps	Ihram, Arafat, Muzdalifah, Tawaf	Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, Haircut
Spiritual Benefit	Wipes all past sins	Brings blessings, strengthens faith
Physical Effort	High	Moderate
Cost	Higher due to longer stay	More affordable
Preparation Needed	More extensive	Simpler

 

I gives a full view of the Difference Between Umrah and Hajj. Whether you’re planning to perform Umrah or Hajj, knowing the differences helps you decide. To learn what are the rules for umrah​ in detail, visit Rahiq Academy.

 

What is Ihram? The Sacred Start to Your Pilgrimage

Ihram is the sacred state Muslims enter before Hajj or Umrah. It begins with intention and wearing specific clothes. Men wear two white unstitched sheets. Women wear modest, loose clothing without a face covering. In this state, actions like cutting hair, using perfume, and arguing are forbidden. Ihram creates equality and purity. It marks the start of worship. The umrah definition includes Ihram as its first and most essential step.

Also, your spiritual outfit for the Hajj or Umrah is called Ihram. Consider it a holy switch. Think of it as a sacred switch. It turns your mindset to worship. Importantly, it’s not just clothing. It’s a state of purity where you focus only on Allah.

Here’s what you need:

• For Men: Two unstitched white sheets. One wraps around your waist. The other covers your upper body.
• For Women: Regular modest clothes (any color). But no face veil or gloves.
• Rules: No perfume, arguing, or intimacy. Also, avoid cutting hair/nails.

Why does the Ihram matter?

1. Equality: Everyone wears similar, simple clothes. Rich or poor, all stand equal before Allah.
2. Focus: It removes distractions (designer clothes, vanity). So, you connect deeper spiritually.
3. Purity: The white cloth symbolizes a clean heart.
4. Unity: Pilgrims from all over stand shoulder to shoulder with one purpose.

Tips for 2025

• Use unscented soap before changing.
• Sew a pocket inside your Ihram for keys/money.
• Download Saudi’s Nusuk app for Miqat locations.

Ihram strips away worldly labels. Under those white sheets? Just a servant seeking mercy.

Remember: Ihram begins at the Miqat boundaries. Miss it? Your pilgrimage isn’t valid. For the umrah definition, see how Ihram starts this beautiful journey.

How to Wear Ihram: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide for Men and Women

Ihram is the first and most visible sign that your sacred journey has begun. You must correctly wear your ihram before entering Makkah or Madinah. It prepares your body, mind, and heart for the rituals of Hajj or Umrah. Below, you’ll learn how to wear Ihram correctly, with clear steps, practical tips, and key do’s and don’ts.

Steps to Wear Ihram Correctly for Men

• Take a full shower (Ghusl): Before you wear Ihram, take a complete bath to start clean and refreshed.
• Trim nails and remove body hair: Do this before the intention (niyyah), not after. Once in Ihram, grooming is not allowed.
• Wear only two white, unstitched pieces: One piece (izar) wraps around your waist. The second (rida) goes over your shoulders.
• No underwear, no stitched garments: Avoid socks, pants, or vests. The clothing must be loose, unsewn, and without elastic.
• Use a simple belt if needed: A belt or pouch is allowed to carry your passport, money, or keys.
• Wear sandals or flip-flops: Shoes must not cover the heel or ankles.
• Do not apply perfume: Avoid scented soaps, creams, or deodorants. Everything must be unscented.
• Make your intention (niyyah): Say it with your heart and lips before crossing the Miqat (boundary point).
• Begin saying Talbiyah: Once you enter Ihram, say: Labbayka Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka Laa Shareeka Laka Labbayk…

How to Wear Ihram for Women

• Take a full bath before Ihram: Just like men, cleanliness is important before entering the sacred state.
• Dress in loose, modest clothing: Any color is allowed, but it should cover the body properly.
• Do not cover the face or hands: Niqab and gloves are not allowed while in Ihram.
• No stitched clothing restrictions: Women can wear sewn clothes, as long as they are modest.
• Avoid makeup or perfume: All beauty products must be skipped. Keep your appearance simple and clean.
• Wear flat, simple shoes: Comfort is key. Closed shoes are allowed for women.
• Make intention at Miqat: Say the niyyah once you reach the Miqat or before boarding if traveling by air.
• Begin saying Talbiyah: As soon as possible, begin reciting the Talbiyah with other pilgrims.

 

Ihram Clothing and Rules for Men and Women

Aspect	Men	Women
Clothing Type	Two white, unstitched cloths	Modest, loose clothing (any color)
Head Cover	Not allowed	Allowed (with scarf)
Face Cover	Not allowed	Not allowed (no niqab)
Gloves	Not allowed	Not allowed
Shoes	Sandals without covering the ankles	Any flat, comfortable shoes
Perfume	Forbidden	Forbidden
Stitched Clothing	Not allowed	Allowed

 

What to Do After Wearing the Ihram

• Stay calm and avoid arguments: You must avoid fighting, cursing, or harmful speech while in Ihram.
• Avoid cutting hair or nails: These actions are prohibited until after you finish Umrah or Hajj.
• No hunting or killing animals: Even insects should be left unharmed unless they pose a danger.
• Don’t wear cologne or use scented wipes: Scented items break the Ihram condition and may require a penalty.

Quick Tips for First-Time Pilgrims

• To secure your ihram, have additional safety pins on hand.
• Use a money belt with no seams to stay within the rules
• Wrap your rida tightly before tawaf to avoid slipping
• Bring a plastic bag to store your shoes during rituals
• Drink water and stay hydrated at all times
• Follow group leaders for crowd safety and timing

Important: When to Enter Ihram

• Before passing Miqat, you must enter Ihram. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ established this barrier.
• You have to return or pay a fine if you pass Miqat without Ihram. So always plan ahead.

Recap: How to Wear Ihram the Right Way

• Prepare with cleanliness and intention
• Wear correct clothing with no perfume
• Avoid restricted actions once you enter the Ihram
• Keep your tongue in Talbiyah and your heart focused.

Your journey begins with Ihram. That moment is not just external—it signals your full readiness to meet Allah with sincerity. Although simple in appearance, each step carries weight. Therefore, understanding how to wear the Ihram properly will help you avoid mistakes and maintain your focus. It is also one of the key parts in what are the rules for umrah​.

 

If you still feel unsure, consider joining a structured course. Rahiq Academy explains each rule with clarity and care, ensuring you feel confident from day one.

Let your Ihram be more than just clothes. Let it be your gateway to spiritual peace.

Reciting Talbiyah: Your First Step into the Sacred Journey

Reciting Talbiyah is not just a ritual. It’s your voice declaring full submission to Allah. From the moment you enter Ihram, Talbiyah links your heart to the reason for your journey. Every word reminds you that you are here for Him alone. Understanding how and when to say it helps you follow what are the rules for umrah​ and keeps your focus during every step.

When to Start Saying Talbiyah

• Say Talbiyah right after your intention (niyyah).
• Start once you wear the Ihram before crossing the Miqat.
• If you forget, say it as soon as you remember.
• If you’re flying, say it after boarding once you reach the Miqat airspace.

How to Say the Talbiyah (for Men and Women)

• Men say it out loud but without shouting.
• Women say it quietly, enough for themselves to hear.
• Repeat it often, especially during transitions in Umrah.
• The full Talbiyah is

لَبَّيْكَ ٱللَّٰهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، إِنَّ ٱلْحَمْدَ وَٱلنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَٱلْمُلْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ

Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk. Labbayka laa shareeka laka labbayk. Innal-hamda, wan-ni’mata, laka wal-mulk, laa shareeka lak.

(Here I am, O Allah, here I am. You don’t have a partner, and here I am. Yes, all glory, all benefits, all sovereignty go to You. You have no partner.)

Where to Say Talbiyah

• On your way to Makkah.
• Between the major steps of Umrah, like before Tawaf and Sa’i.
• When stopping or starting to walk.
• After finishing each prayer.
• Say it until you reach the Kaaba and begin Tawaf.

Why Talbiyah Matters

• Reminds you that this trip is for Allah only.
• Keeps you mindful during every ritual.
• Purifies your intention before each step.
• Strengthens your heart when tired or distracted.

When to Recite and Stop Talbiyah

 

Pilgrimage	When to Start Reciting	When to Stop Reciting
Umrah	Immediately after entering the Ihram and declaring intention	Upon entering Masjid al-Haram and starting Tawaf
Hajj	Immediately after entering the Ihram and declaring intention	Upon beginning the first stoning (Ramy al-Jamarat) on 10th Dhul-Hijjah

Tips to Stay Focused While Reciting

• Don’t rush. Pause between each line.
• Sometimes you can focus on significance by closing your eyes.
• Repeat it even when walking or waiting in line.
• Reflect on the words while saying them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to say it after wearing the Ihram.
• Saying it too quietly (for men) or too loudly (for women).
• Repeating it mechanically without focus.
• Stopping before reaching the Kaaba.

Talbiyah Guide for Pilgrims

Step	What to Do	Why It Matters
When to Say It	After Niyyah and before Miqat	Marks your entry into the sacred state
How Men Recite	Loudly but gently	Fulfills Sunnah and spreads remembrance
How Women Recite	Softly to themselves	Maintains modesty and focus
Key Times to Say	While walking, after prayers, entering Makkah	Keeps your purpose alive in your heart
When to Stop	After you reach the Kaaba for Tawaf	That’s the Sunnah point to stop Talbiyah

 

Why Talbiyah Connects You Deeply to Umrah

Reciting Talbiyah isn’t just about following the steps. It opens your heart. It reminds you why you are here. Among what are the rules for umrah​, Talbiyah builds the spiritual mindset needed. Each word humbles you. Each repeat clears your thoughts. You’re not just speaking. You’re answering a divine call.

Short Tips for a Better Experience

• Write Talbiyah down and carry it with you.
• Listen to recordings before your journey.
• Practice it a few days before the Ihram.
• Say it slowly when you feel anxious or lost.

Talbiyah Dos and Don’ts

Action	Allowed?	Notes
Say Talbiyah after Miqat	yes	If you forgot, do it as soon as you remember
Shouting the Talbiyah (men)	no	Say it loudly, but never scream
Women saying it aloud in crowds	no	Keep it soft and private
Repeating Talbiyah with no meaning	no	Focus on each word and its depth
Saying Talbiyah after Tawaf	no	You stop Talbiyah once Tawaf begins

 

Don’t let Talbiyah become just words. Let it wake your heart. Recite it with meaning. Recite it with humility. It’s your way of telling Allah, I’m here for You. Say it with every breath until it becomes your full identity. what are the rules for umrah​ if not steps that begin with sincerity? That’s what makes your Umrah not just correct, but deeply accepted.

Performing the Rituals of Umrah: Simple Steps for Spiritual Connection

Ready for Umrah? Follow these steps mindfully. First, cleanse yourself (Ghusl). Then, wear Ihram at Miqat. Next, declare your intention. Importantly, avoid perfume and arguments now.

The Rituals

1. Recite Talbiyah
   • Chant continuously until Tawaf begins
   • Men: audible but calm, Women: soft whisper
2. Circle the Kaaba (Tawaf)
   • Walk 7 times counter-clockwise
   • Start/end at Black Stone
3. Pray & Drink Zamzam
   • Offer 2 Rak’ahs near Maqam Ibrahim
   • Drink Zamzam facing the Kaaba
4. Walk Safa-Marwah (Sa’i)
   • Complete 7 rounds
   • Men jog between green lights
5. Trim Hair & Exit Ihram
   • Men: shave/trim evenly
   • Women: cut a
   • fingertip-length strand

 

Ritual	Key Purpose	Must-Know Details
Ihram	Enter sacred state	No perfume/arguments
Tawaf	Circle Kaaba	Start at Black Stone
Sa’i	Commemorate Hajar	Jog at the green (men only)
Hair Trim	Symbolic renewal	Women: trim 1 fingertip

Finally, remember: Umrah is about presence, not perfection. For deeper guidance on what are the rules for umrah​, seek trusted scholars – but you’ve now mastered the essentials!

Tawaf (Circumambulation): The Heart of Umrah

One of the main Hajj and Umrah rituals is Tawaf, or circumambulation. It means circling the holy Kaaba. This deed reflects obedience, love, and surrender to Allah. It symbolizes unity with Allah. Therefore, performing Tawaf correctly is vital. It strengthens your spiritual connection. Let’s explore its key steps.

• Starting Point for Tawaf

• • • Begin from the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad)
    • Face it and say Bismillah, Allahu Akbar
    • After facing the Kaaba, turn right.
    • Walk counterclockwise around the Kaaba.
    • After facing the Kaaba, turn right.
    • Ensure your entire body passes the stone. Thus, the round truly begins.

  • Direction and Number of Rounds

    • Circle the Kaaba seven times.
    • Always walk counter-clockwise.
    • Keep the Kaaba on your left side. Indeed, this is the correct orientation.

• Purity (Wudu)

• • • Maintain your ablution (Wudu) throughout Tawaf.
    • If Wudu breaks, you must renew it. Then, restart your Tawaf from the beginning. This ensures validity.

• Idtiba’ and Raml (for Men)

• • • Men should uncover their right shoulder. This is called Idtiba.
    • Do this during all seven rounds of Tawaf.
    • They also perform Raml for the first three rounds. This is a brisk, short-stepped walk.
    • Conversely, women walk normally throughout.

• Recitation and Supplication

• • • Recite any prayers or Duas you know.
    • Furthermore, you can read from the Quran.
    • There are no fixed Duas for each circuit. However, a specific Dua is recited between the Yemeni Corner and the Black Stone.
    • Focus on your intention. Indeed, sincerity matters most.

• After Completing Tawaf

• • Pray two Rak’ahs (units of prayer).
  • Ideally, pray behind Maqam Ibrahim.
  • If crowded, pray anywhere in Masjid al-Haram.
  • Afterward, drink Zamzam water. Make Duas while drinking.

Quick Tawaf Guide

Step	Action Required	Notes
Starting Point	Face Black Stone, say Takbir	Raise hands if too far to kiss it
Number of Circuits	Complete 7 rounds	Counterclockwise, non-stop
Men’s Movement	Fast pace for the first 3 rounds	Walk normally in the last 4
Dua Recitation	Allowed throughout	Any dua or dhikr, no fixed wording
After Tawaf Prayer	Pray 2 Rak’ahs near Maqam Ibrahim	Or anywhere in the mosque if crowded
Zamzam	Drink after prayer	Make Dua while drinking

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Starting from the wrong point
• Skipping a round or miscounting
• Pushing or disturbing others
• Talking about unrelated things

Tawaf (Circumambulation) is not just a physical movement. It is worship that cleanses your heart. Among what are the rules for umrah​, this act is central to your journey. Focus on each step. Keep your mind clear. Let your heart lead your feet. This is your moment with Allah. Make every round count.

Salat al-Tawaf: Your Heartfelt Prayer After Circling the Kaaba

Salat al-Tawaf isn’t just a ritual. It’s your moment of thanks after Tawaf. Think of it as a quiet chat with Allah. Here’s how to pray it right:

• Purify First: Always perform wudu before starting. Clean body, clear heart.
• Face Maqam Ibrahim: Stand behind it, ensuring it’s between you and the Kaaba. If crowded, step back but keep alignment.
• Pray Two Rak’ahs: Keep it simple, like Fajr. Recite Surah Al-Kafirun (Surah 109) in the first rak’ah, then Al-Ikhlas (Surah 112) in the second.
• Recite Softly or Loudly? Men can choose; women recite quietly. No fixed volume rule.
• Timing Matters: Pray right after Tawaf. Delaying weakens the connection.
• Crowded? No Problem: Can’t reach Maqam Ibrahim? Pray anywhere in Masjid al-Haram. Flexibility is Allah’s mercy.
• Make It Personal: Add your own duas. Ask for forgiveness, healing, or peace. This prayer accepts requests.
• Why It Matters: This prayer seals your Tawaf. Without it, your circumambulation feels incomplete.

 Salat al-Tawaf Essentials

Aspect	Key Detail	Tip
Position	Behind Maqam Ibrahim	Kaaba → Maqam → You
Surahs	Al-Kafirun + Al-Ikhlas	Short but powerful
Recitation Style	Men: any volume; Women: soft	Focus on meaning, not volume
Timing	Immediately after Tawaf	Don’t check your phone or chat first
Crowd Solution	Pray anywhere in the mosque	Second floor? Still valid!

Salat al-Tawaf is a short but meaningful prayer. It completes your Tawaf with thankfulness and submission. Among what are the rules for umrah​, this step confirms your devotion and attention to each ritual.

 

Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwah): Your Walk of Faith

Walking between Safa and Marwah, or Sa’i, is a crucial aspect of Umrah. Sa’i isn’t just walking—it’s reliving Hajar’s trust in Allah. This ritual is deeply symbolic and spiritual. Performing it correctly is key to fulfilling  what are the rules for umrah​.

• Sa’i includes walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah inside the Grand Mosque.
• Start at Safa, face the Kaaba, raise your hands in dua, and begin walking toward Marwah.

 إن الصفا والمروة من شعائر الله

 Inna s-Safa wa l-Marwah min sha’ari Alla Quran 2:158

• Walk calmly but with purpose; men can jog lightly in the marked areas.
• Turn back toward Safa when you get to Marwah, and keep going back and forth like this until you’ve made seven journeys.
• Each lap counts as one round; end your final round at Marwah.
• Keep your focus on Allah and reflect on Hagar’s trust and perseverance.
• Avoid rushing or pushing others; maintain respect and patience throughout.
• Sa’i symbolizes the search for sustenance and reliance on Allah’s mercy.
• Women walk at a normal pace; men perform a light jog only in designated spots.
• Men shave or trim their hair after Sa’i, whereas women cut a little section to complete Umrah.
• This step connects your physical effort to spiritual growth and humility.
• Understanding Sa’i helps you fulfill your Umrah correctly and respectfully.

Sa’i Lap Counter

 

Lap	Start	End	Key Action
1	Safa	Marwah	Face the Kaaba, recite Quran 2:158
2	Marwah	Safa	Walk/jog (men) between green lights
3	Safa	Marwah	Personal supplications encouraged
4	Marwah	Safa	Rest if needed, no penalty
5	Safa	Marwah	Reflect on Hajar’s resilience
6	Marwah	Safa	Quiet dhikr (e.g., “SubhanAllah”)
7	Safa	Marwah	Final dua; embrace spiritual relief

 

Performing Sa’i properly strengthens your connection with Allah. It also fulfills an important part of what are the rules for umrah. This ritual reminds you of patience, trust, and hope in Allah’s mercy. Approach it with calmness and devotion, letting your heart lead the way.

For more guidance, Rahiq Academy offers clear lessons to help you master every step of your pilgrimage.

Concluding the Umrah: Final Steps Every Pilgrim Must Know

Completing Umrah is more than just rituals. It’s your final moment to seal your effort with full sincerity. If you’re asking what are the rules for umrah​, understanding the final part matters just as much as the beginning. Here’s a clear, easy-to-follow guide to Concluding the Umrah in the correct way.

End Sa’i at Marwah

Once your seventh lap ends at Marwah, pause for a short dua. Reflect on what you just completed.

Perform the hair ritual

For men: shave or trim all hair.For women: cut a fingertip-length from one lock only.This step is required to complete Umrah.

Don’t delay the trimming

It must be done right after Sa’i. Delaying it without reason is not advised.

Say a final dua

Thank Allah. Speak from the heart. Ask Him to accept your Umrah.

Remove Ihram

After trimming, you may remove Ihram clothes. You return to your normal state.

Umrah is now complete

You’ve fulfilled every part. Keep your heart clean. Carry the lessons back home.

Final Umrah Steps

Step	Action	Who it Applies to
End of Sa’i	Finish at Marwah	All pilgrims
Hair Removal	Shave/trim (men), cut (women)	All pilgrims
Dua	Thank Allah after Sa’i	Optional but encouraged
Remove Ihram	After hair is cut	All pilgrims
Umrah Completion	All steps done	Marks end of pilgrimage

Each step above is part of Concluding the Umrah and follows what are the rules for umrah​. Stay present, stay sincere, and let your heart finish what your feet started.

Halq or Taqseer (Hair Cutting): A Vital Step to Complete Your Umrah

• A Required Step to Complete Umrah After Sa’i, you must cut your hair to complete Umrah.
• Men shave the head fully (Halq) or trim the hair evenly (Taqseer). Women cut a tiny piece that was roughly the length of a fingertip.
•  Do it right after Sa’i without delay. This step finishs Ihram and lifts its rules.
•  Therefore, you can now return to regular life. This act shows humility, obedience, and gratitude to Allah.

Why this matters?

1. Freedom: Immediately ends Ihram restrictions.
2. Symbolism: Represents spiritual rebirth.
3. Obedience: Follows the Prophet’s tradition closely.

Exiting Ihram: Your Sacred Return to Everyday Life

Exiting Ihram marks your spiritual rebirth after Umrah or Hajj. Actually, it’s your sacred return ticket to normal life. Here’s how to do it right:

First, finish all rituals.

• For Umrah: Complete Tawaf + Sa’i.
• For Hajj: Stone Jamrat Al-Aqabah first.

Then, cut or shave your hair.

• Men: Shave fully (Halq) or trim evenly (Taqsir).
• Women: Trim a fingertip’s length only.

Next, remove Ihram garments.

• Change into regular clothes immediately after hair ritual.

But remember

• No delays without valid reason! Do this right after Sa’i (Umrah) or stoning (Hajj).
• Feel the moment. Many weep here—it’s profound spiritual release.

Finally, celebrate your freedom!

• Wear perfume again.
• Clip nails.
• Resume marital relations.

Keep trimmed hair as a blessing. Some bury it respectfully later

Umrah vs. Hajj: Exiting Ihram Simplified

Aspect	Umrah	Hajj
Trigger Step	After Sa’i at Marwah	After stoning Jamrat Al-Aqabah
Hair Ritual	Immediately post-Sa’i	Post-stoning + before Tawaf al-Ifadah
Full Freedom	After hair cut + garment change	After Tawaf al-Ifadah + Sa’i (if pending)
Women’s Rule	Trim only—no shaving	Trim only—no shaving

 

Still unsure? Always double-check what are the rules for Umrah with scholars. Because precision honors your journey .

Summary

Still wondering what are the rules for umrah​? Now you know each of the 17 steps clearly. Don’t leave your journey to chance. Prepare with care, ask the right questions, and follow trusted guidance. Visit rahiqacademy.com for more detailed lessons and personal support. Ready to walk your sacred path the right way? Start today with confidence—and the full guide: What Are the Rules for Umrah? 17 Steps Every Pilgrim Needs.

FAQ’s

 

Q:Can You Perform Umrah Anytime?
A:Yes, you can conduct Umrah at any time of the year except during the main Hajj days.

Q:What Are the Benefits of Performing Umrah?
A:Umrah brings forgiveness, peace, and closeness to Allah. It renews your faith and clears past sins with sincere effort.

Q:What Are the Rules for Umrah Regarding Du’a?

A:You can say personal du’a at any point. There are no fixed words. Speak from the heart during Tawaf, Sa’i, or any moment.

Q:What Are the Rules for Umrah Dress Code?

A:Men wear two white cloths. Women wear modest clothing. Avoid stitched outfits for men and tight or flashy clothes for women.