Performing Umrah for the first time can feel intimidating - but the ritual itself is short and straightforward once you understand its four steps. This scholar-reviewed guide walks you through each stage, from entering Ihram in the UK to your final tawaf al-wada.
The four pillars of Umrah
- Entering the state of Ihram before crossing the Miqat
- Performing tawaf - seven circuits of the Kaaba
- Performing sa‘i - walking between Safa and Marwah
- Shaving (men) or trimming (women) the hair
Step 1: Ihram and intention
Ihram has two parts: the special clothing and the intention. Men wear two unstitched white cloths; women wear modest, ordinary clothing. The intention (niyyah) is made silently, typically just before crossing the Miqat boundary.
On flights from the UK, most pilgrims change into Ihram garments before departure or during the layover, then make their intention as the captain announces approach to the Miqat.
Step 2: Tawaf
On arrival at the Haram, pilgrims perform tawaf: seven circuits of the Kaaba in an anti-clockwise direction starting and ending at the Black Stone. There are special supplications recommended at each corner.
Practical tips for tawaf
- Start each circuit by raising your hand toward the Black Stone
- Men should expose their right shoulder during tawaf only
- Stay close to a wall if the crowd is heavy - the upper levels are also valid
- After tawaf, pray two rakahs near Maqam Ibrahim, then drink Zamzam water
Step 3: Sa‘i
From Safa, walk to Marwah, then return - seven trips in total. Men jog through the green-lit central section; women walk throughout. There is no fixed supplication, so make your own duas in your own language.
Step 4: Halq or taqsir
After sa‘i, men shave (halq, preferred) or trim (taqsir) the head; women trim a fingertip's length from their hair. This marks the end of the Umrah and the exit from the state of Ihram.
What we include
Every Emigre package includes a UK-based pre-departure briefing and an on-the-ground guide for your first tawaf and sa‘i. You'll never feel alone, even on your first Umrah.
Related questions
How long does Umrah take to perform?+
The rituals themselves take 2–4 hours depending on crowd levels. Most pilgrims complete their first Umrah on the day of arrival.
Can I perform multiple Umrahs in one trip?+
Yes - many pilgrims perform a second Umrah from Masjid Aisha (Tan‘eem) on behalf of a deceased relative or for additional reward.