Introduction

Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey that every Muslim dreams of experiencing at least once in their lifetime. Unlike Hajj, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, making it easier and more flexible for pilgrims around the world.

At Kiswah Tours, we help thousands of pilgrims travel to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah every year — providing smooth, guided, and worry-free Umrah experiences from start to finish.

If this is your first Umrah, or you want to refresh your knowledge, this complete guide will walk you through every step of the Umrah journey — from Ihram to Tawaf, Sa’i, and Halq/Qasr.

What Is Umrah?

Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage to Makkah that holds immense spiritual rewards. Known as the “lesser pilgrimage,” it involves specific rituals performed in Masjid al-Haram.

Although it is shorter and easier than Hajj, the spiritual benefits are tremendous:
✔ Forgiveness of past sins
✔ Spiritual cleansing
✔ A chance to reconnect with Allah
✔ Renewed purpose and faith

Preparing for Umrah

1. Book a Reliable Umrah Package

The first step is choosing a trusted travel agency like Kiswah Tours, which provides:

• Return flights
• Visa assistance
• Premium hotels in Makkah & Madinah
• Private transport
• Guided rituals
• 24/7 support in the Kingdom

This ensures your journey is stress-free and Shariah-compliant.

2. Learn the Umrah Rituals

Before traveling, every pilgrim should understand the main rituals:

• Ihram
• Tawaf (circumambulation of Kaaba)
• Sa’i (walking between Safa & Marwah)
• Halq/Qasr (shaving or trimming)

This article explains each one in detail below.

3. Pack Smart for Your Journey

Essentials include:

• Ihram clothes
• Comfortable footwear
• Travel documents
• Prayer mat
• Small bag for Tawaf
• Tasbeeh / Quran app
• Essentials (mask, sanitizer, lotion)

Step-by-Step Umrah Guide

Step 1: Entering Ihram

Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim must enter before performing Umrah.

For Men:

Two white unstitched cloths

For Women:

Modest and simple Islamic clothing

Actions in Ihram

• Make Niyyah (intention)
• Recite the Talbiyah:
  “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk…”
• Avoid prohibited acts (cutting nails, perfumes, marital relations, etc.)

Ihram begins at the Miqat, depending on your flight route.

Step 2: Perform Tawaf

Once you reach Masjid al-Haram, begin Tawaf around the Kaaba.

How to Perform Tawaf:

1. Stand facing the Hajar al-Aswad
2. Raise your hands and say “Bismillah Allahu Akbar”
3. Walk seven rounds around the Kaaba
4. Men perform Ramal (fast walk) in the first 3 rounds
5. After finishing, pray 2 raka’ah behind Maqam Ibrahim (if possible)

Step 3: Perform Sa’i Between Safa and Marwah

After Tawaf, go to the Safa hill to begin Sa’i.

How to Perform Sa’i:

• Start at Safa, face the Kaaba, and make dua
• Walk to Marwah (1 lap)
• Return to Safa (2 laps)
• Complete 7 laps total
• Men run lightly between the green markers

Step 4: Halq or Qasr

Once Sa’i is completed:

Men:

• Halq (shaving the head) — best
• Qasr (trimming hair) — allowed

Women:

Trim a small portion of hair (one inch)

This completes the Umrah.

Tips for First-Time Pilgrims

• Stay hydrated
• Follow crowd guidance
• Keep your Ihram clean
• Make lots of dua — this journey is a blessing
• Stay close to your group, especially during peak days
• Use Kiswah Tours’ support if you need help anytime

Conclusion

Umrah is a journey of the heart — a chance to reconnect with Allah, seek forgiveness, and return spiritually renewed. With proper preparation and a reliable travel partner like Kiswah Tours, you can perform Umrah smoothly and confidently.