Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey for Muslims, offering an opportunity to cleanse the soul, seek forgiveness, and draw closer to Allah. Unlike Hajj, Umrah is not obligatory, but its significance is immense. For those planning to embark on this sacred journey, especially first-time pilgrims, knowing how to perform Umrah can make the experience more meaningful and fulfilling. This guide will walk you through the preparation, rituals, and duas for performing Umrah with ease and confidence.

 

How to Prepare for Umrah for the First Time

Preparation for Umrah goes beyond booking tickets and packing bags. It involves spiritual, physical, and logistical readiness. Below are essential steps to prepare for Umrah:

1. Spiritual Preparation

  • Renew Your Intention (Niyyah): Ensure your purpose is solely to please Allah and seek His forgiveness.

  • Seek Forgiveness: Ask for forgiveness from family, friends, and anyone you may have wronged.

  • Increase Worship: Engage in regular prayers, recitation of the Quran, and dhikr (remembrance of Allah).

  • Learn the Rituals: Familiarize yourself with the steps of Umrah and the duas associated with each stage.

2. Necessary Documents

  • Passport: Ensure it is valid for at least six months from your travel date.

  • Visa: Apply for an Umrah visa through a licensed travel agent or online.

  • Vaccination Certificates: Carry proof of COVID-19 and meningitis vaccinations as required.

  • Flight and Hotel Confirmations: Keep hard and digital copies of all bookings. 

3. Packing Essentials

  • Ihram: Men should carry two white unstitched cloths, while women can wear any modest attire.

  • Comfortable Footwear: Pack sandals or flip-flops for ease during Tawaf and Sa’i.

  • Toiletries: Only fragrance-free products are allowed during Ihram.

  • Prayer Mat and Quran: For use during prayers and reflection.

  • Medications: Carry prescribed medicines and a basic first-aid kit.

  • Snacks and Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and energized during long rituals.

4. Physical Preparation

  • Stay Fit: Walk regularly to build stamina for the physical demands of Tawaf and Sa’i.

  • Sleep Well: Ensure you’re well-rested before your journey. 

 

What Do You Say During Umrah?

Umrah is incomplete without heartfelt supplications (duas). Here’s a breakdown of what to say during each step of Umrah:

1. Niyyah (Intention)

Before entering Ihram, make the intention by saying:

“Labbaik Allahumma Umrah” “Here I am, O Allah, to perform Umrah.”

2. Talbiyah

From the time of entering Ihram until reaching the Kaaba, repeatedly recite:

“Labbaik Allahumma labbaik, Labbaik la sharika laka labbaik. Innal hamda, wan ni’mata, laka wal mulk, la sharika lak.” (Here I am, O Allah, here I am. There is no partner with You. Here I am. Verily, all praise, grace, and sovereignty belong to You. There is no partner with You.)

3. Tawaf (Circumambulation)

  • Start: Begin at the Black Stone (Hajr-e-Aswad) and say:
    “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar.” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest.)

  • During Tawaf: Recite any duas or verses from the Quran. A popular dua is:
    “Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina azabannar.” (Our Lord, grant us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and save us from the punishment of the Fire.)

4. Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwah)

  • At Safa, recite:
    “Inna as-Safa wal-Marwah min sha’airillah.” (Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah.)

  • During the walk, pray for personal needs and recite dhikr like:
    “SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar.”

5. Cutting/Shaving Hair

Conclude Umrah by cutting a small portion of hair (women) or shaving the head (men). Thank Allah for completing your pilgrimage.

 

How Can I Perform Umrah by Myself?

Performing Umrah independently is straightforward if you follow these steps:

Step 1: Enter Ihram

  • Men: Wear the two pieces of unstitched white cloth.

  • Women: Wear modest clothing that fulfills Islamic guidelines.

  • Intention: Declare your niyyah and recite the Talbiyah.

Step 2: Tawaf (Circumambulation)

  • Start at the Black Stone, touching or pointing to it.

  • Complete seven anti-clockwise rounds around the Kaaba.

  • Focus on prayers, supplications, and dhikr during each round.

Step 3: Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwah)

  • Walk seven times between the two hills, beginning at Safa and ending at Marwah.

  • Recite duas and dhikr during each lap.

Step 4: Hair Cutting/Shaving

  • Men should shave their heads or trim their hair, while women should cut a small portion of hair.

By following these steps, you can perform Umrah independently without needing a guide.

What is the Basic Dua for Umrah?

The journey of Umrah begins with the intention (niyyah), and this is the basic dua to recite:

“Labbaik Allahumma Umrah” (Here I am, O Allah, to perform Umrah.)

This declaration signifies your readiness and devotion to undertake the sacred journey for Allah’s pleasure.

 

Final Thoughts

Performing Umrah is a life-changing experience that brings you closer to Allah. With proper preparation and knowledge of the rituals, your journey can be smooth and spiritually enriching. Remember, Umrah is not just about the physical actions but also about the intention, sincerity, and devotion behind them. May Allah accept your Umrah and grant you countless blessings.

 

Start planning your sacred journey today, and let this guide help you perform Umrah with confidence and clarity.