Performing Umrah—a “lesser pilgrimage” to the holy city of Makkah—is a deeply spiritual journey for Muslims worldwide. Unlike Hajj, Umrah can be undertaken at any time of the year, making it a popular devotional act. Below is a step-by-step overview of the Umrah Rituals in Saudi Arabia, designed to help pilgrims prepare mentally, physically, and spiritually.
1. Preparing and Entering Ihram
Before crossing the designated boundary (miqat), pilgrims must don ihram garments:
For men: Two unstitched white cloths—one wrapped around the waist (izar) and another draped over the shoulder (rida).
For women: Simple, modest dress covering the entire body, leaving only the face and hands exposed.
Pilgrims make the niyyah (intention) for Umrah and recite the Talbiyah:
“Labbayka Allahumma Umrah”
(“Here I am, O Allah, fulfilling Umrah.”)
Ihram requires abstaining from cutting hair, trimming nails, using perfumes, and any marital intimacy until rituals are complete.
2. Tawaf (Circumambulation of the Ka‘bah)
Upon arrival at Masjid al-Haram, pilgrims perform Tawaf:
Begin at Al-Hajjar al-Aswad (Black Stone): Kiss, touch, or point toward it, saying “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” if possible.
Seven Circuits: Move counterclockwise around the Ka‘bah, maintaining reverence and making du‘as (supplications).
Completion: After the seventh circuit, offer two rak‘ahs of prayer at Maqām Ibrāhīm or any clean spot within the mosque.
Tawaf symbolizes unity in the worship of the One God, reflecting pilgrims’ devotion and equality before Allah.
3. Sa‘i (Walking Between Safā and Marwah)
Following Tawaf, pilgrims perform Sa‘i to honor Hajar’s search for water:
Start at Safā: Face the Ka‘bah, recite “Allahu Akbar,” and make du‘as.
Seven Return Trips: Walk swiftly between the green markers (for men) from Safā to Marwah and back, completing seven legs.
Reflection: Meditate on perseverance and trust in Allah’s provision.
Sa‘i represents patience, resilience, and reliance on divine mercy.
4. Tahallul (Shaving or Trimming Hair)
To exit the state of Ihram, pilgrims must:
Men: Shave the head entirely or trim a symbolic lock of hair.
Women: Cut a fingertip’s length of hair.
This act, called Tahallul, signifies spiritual renewal and release from Ihram restrictions.
5. Final Supplications and Departure
After completing these core rituals, pilgrims may:
Perform additional Tawaf (Tawaf al-Ifadah) if time and circumstances allow.
Offer extra prayers anywhere in Masjid al-Haram.
Visit the Rawdah in Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah, if on an extended pilgrimage.
Conclusion
Undertaking Umrah Rituals in Saudi Arabia is a profound journey of faith, symbolizing purification, submission, and renewal. From entering Ihram to Tawaf, Sa‘i, and Tahallul, each step carries deep spiritual meaning. Whether you’re answering the Call for Umrah for the first time or returning to Makkah, these rituals bind hearts to the Divine and unite Muslims across the globe in worship. May your Umrah be accepted and your pilgrimage bring you closer to Allah.
