Umrah | Rules, Dua and Importance Explained 2025

Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, that can be performed at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which has specific dates. It involves a series of religious rituals, including wearing the Ihram (a special white garment), performing Tawaf (circumambulating the Kaaba), Sa’i (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah), and shaving or trimming the hair. While Umrah is not obligatory, it holds great spiritual significance and is considered an act of devotion and purification in Islam.

What is Umrah? 

Umrah is a sacred pilgrimage that Muslims perform to the holy city of Mecca, similar to Hajj, but it can be undertaken at any time of the year. Unlike Hajj, which is obligatory for Muslims who have the financial and physical means, Umrah is a recommended, yet highly rewarding, act of worship that signifies devotion and submission to Allah. Often referred to as the “lesser pilgrimage,” Umrah provides an opportunity for spiritual purification and growth.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the significance of Umrah in Islam, the steps involved in performing it, and how it differs from Hajj. Additionally, we’ll cover the rewards and spiritual benefits of Umrah, making it a must-read for those considering embarking on this blessed journey.

Umrah Rules

Individuals intending to perform Umrah must meet the following prerequisites:

• Islam: The individual must be a Muslim.
• Maturity (Baligh): While Umrah can be performed before puberty, it is only considered valid and rewarding after reaching this stage.
• Sanity: The person must be of sound mind and possess full mental faculties.
• Financial Ability: Pilgrims must have sufficient funds to cover all expenses related to the journey, including travel, accommodation, and sustenance during their stay. Furthermore, they should be capable of supporting their dependents in their absence. While being debt-free is not a strict requirement, it is advisable to make arrangements for debt repayment before departure.
• Physical Ability: Individuals must be physically capable of undertaking the journey to Makkah and performing the Umrah rituals, either independently or with the aid of assistance such as a wheelchair.
• Transportation: Pilgrims must have access to transportation to Makkah and the means to afford the associated costs. The journey should also be reasonably safe and free from significant foreseeable dangers.
• Visa Regulations: Depending on the country of origin, specific visa requirements must be met. For example, individuals applying for an Umrah visa may need to hold a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining. It is crucial to consult the relevant authorities for the latest visa regulations.

These conditions are in place to ensure that those undertaking Umrah are adequately prepared, both materially and spiritually, to fulfill its rites.

Guidelines on Cutting Hair and Nails during Umrah:

A time limit has been prescribed for us for clipping the moustache, cutting the nails, plucking hair under the armpits, shaving the pubes, that it should not be neglected far more than forty nights.  Hadith | Sahih Muslim

Before entering the state of Ihram, it is recommended, though not obligatory, to trim nails and remove any unwanted body hair.

However, once in the state of Ihram, cutting hair or nails is strictly prohibited. If a nail happens to break, it is permissible to trim only the broken part.

Upon completion of the Umrah rituals, exiting the state of Ihram requires either cutting or shaving the hair.

• Men: Are required to shave their entire head (Halq) after completing Umrah.
• Women: Are required to cut a symbolic amount of hair, equivalent to the length of a fingertip (Taqsir).

This act of cutting or shaving the hair symbolizes detachment from worldly attachments and signifies submission to Allah Almighty.

Specific Guidelines for Women Performing Umrah:

In addition to the general rules, women performing Umrah must adhere to the following:

• Purity: Women must be in a state of ritual purity (not menstruating) to perform Umrah.
• Modest Dress (Hijab): Women are obligated to wear hijab and dress modestly, ensuring that all parts of their body are covered except for their face, hands, and feet.
• Prohibitions in Ihram: During the state of Ihram, women must refrain from wearing perfume, tight-fitting clothing, gloves, makeup, and henna.
• General Prohibitions: Similar to men in Ihram, women must also avoid chasing or killing insects or animals, engaging in arguments, swearing, backbiting, or any form of immoral conduct. Intimacy with their spouse or entering into a marriage contract is also forbidden during Ihram.
• Iddah Period: A woman observing her Iddah (the waiting period after divorce or the death of her husband, typically three months) is not permitted to perform Umrah.

Regulations Regarding Mahram (Male Guardian) for Women:

Previously, women were generally required to be accompanied by a Mahram (a close male relative) to obtain a Saudi Tourist Visa for Umrah. However, current regulations allow women to perform Umrah in the company of close female relatives such as their mother, sister, aunt, or close friends.

Despite these updated visa regulations, from an Islamic perspective, the majority of scholars maintain that a woman must travel with her Mahram when performing Hajj or Umrah.

Some scholars hold the view that a woman may perform Umrah or Hajj without a Mahram if she travels in the trusted company of a group or if the travel routes are considered safe.

Given the differences in scholarly opinions on the necessity of a Mahram, it is strongly advised that women consult their specific Madhab (school of thought) and religious teachers to make an informed decision that aligns with their beliefs and circumstances.

Age Regulations for Umrah:

Individuals traveling alone must be at least 18 years old to obtain an Umrah visa. Travelers under the age of 18 are permitted to enter if accompanied by a parent, grandparent, or an adult sibling who is over 18 years old.

What is Forbidden During Umrah?

Once you enter the state of Ihram, the following actions become prohibited:

• Applying perfume or scented cosmetics

• Women covering their faces or wearing gloves

• Men covering their heads with caps or wearing stitched clothing

• Trimming nails

• Cutting hair

• Getting married

• Engaging in sexual activity

• Hunting animals

• Cutting down trees

• Killing insects (unless they pose a direct threat to you)

• Smoking or using drugs

• Engaging in quarrels or fights

• Swearing or backbiting

What Rules to Follow After Umrah?

After completing the rituals of Umrah, including the Sa’ee and shaving or cutting your hair, the restrictions of Ihram are lifted.

• Men should completely shave their heads (Halq) after completing Umrah.

• Women should trim their hair to the length of their fingertips (Taqsir).

Even though the Ihram restrictions are lifted, it is important to continue observing good manners and conduct. Umrah is a chance to grow spiritually, cleanse oneself, and draw closer to Allah. This journey should inspire a commitment to improving one’s character, avoiding sinful actions and speech, and behaving in a dignified manner according to the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

The Importance of Umrah in Islam

Umrah holds a special place in Islam as it allows Muslims to renew their faith, seek forgiveness, and experience spiritual transformation. While it is not one of the Five Pillars of Islam, performing Umrah is highly recommended (Sunnah). Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself performed Umrah multiple times during his life, and he emphasized the great rewards associated with it.

One of the hadiths (teachings of the Prophet) mentions the immense spiritual benefits of Umrah:

“The performance of one Umrah to the next is an expiation for the sins committed between them.” — Sahih Bukhari

Thus, the opportunity to cleanse oneself from sins and draw closer to Allah is one of the most compelling reasons for Muslims to perform Umrah.

5 Powerful Differences Between Hajj and Umrah

Here are five powerful differences between Hajj and Umrah based on the analysis of the provided text:

1. Timing:
   • Hajj can only be performed during the specific days of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar.
   • Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, making it more accessible for Muslims who cannot attend during Hajj season.
2. Obligation:
   • Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory for all Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey.
   • Umrah is a Sunnah and is not obligatory, though highly encouraged and rewarded.
3. Rituals:
   • Hajj consists of more elaborate rituals, including standing on the plain of Arafat and performing Ramy al-Jamarat (throwing pebbles at the symbolic pillars).
   • Umrah is shorter and less demanding, involving the rituals of Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, and Halq/Taqsir.

4. Spiritual Significance:

• • Hajj: Represents a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for those who can undertake it and offers unparalleled spiritual benefits and a renewal of faith.
  • Umrah: Though spiritually rewarding, it does not carry the same obligation or comprehensive significance as Hajj.

5. Scale and Scope:

• • Hajj: Involves millions of Muslims from around the world converging simultaneously, making it a global and highly collective act of worship.
  • Umrah: This is a more personal journey, often undertaken individually or in smaller groups at any convenient time.

Hajj and Umrah are deeply significant in Islam, but their distinct differences highlight their unique roles in a Muslim’s spiritual life.

How to Perform Umrah: A Step-by-Step Guide

Umrah consists of four main rituals that must be performed in sequence. Here’s a breakdown of each step:

1. Ihram: Entering the Sacred State

Before entering Mecca, pilgrims must enter the state of Ihram, a spiritual condition of purity and humility. The Ihram garments consist of two simple white sheets for men, while women wear modest clothing that covers their entire body except for the face and hands.

In the state of Ihram, pilgrims are required to follow specific rules, such as:

• Refraining from cutting hair or nails.
• Avoiding quarrels or disputes.
• Abstaining from sexual relations.
• Avoiding perfumes or scented products.

The intention for Umrah is made by reciting the Talbiyah, a special prayer that expresses submission to Allah. The Talbiyah is repeated frequently throughout the pilgrimage:

“Labbayka Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk. Inna al-hamda wa-nni’mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika lak.”

(“Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily all praise, grace, and dominion are Yours, You have no partner.”)

2. Tawaf: Circumambulating the Kaaba

After entering Mecca, pilgrims perform Tawaf, which involves circling the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. The Kaaba, a sacred cube-shaped structure, is the most revered place in Islam, and Tawaf signifies the unity of believers as they all face a single direction in worship.

During Tawaf, pilgrims recite prayers and ask Allah for forgiveness, mercy, and blessings. After completing the seven rounds, it is recommended to pray two units of Nafl prayer at a point called Maqam Ibrahim, a station associated with Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).

3. Sa’i: Walking Between Safa and Marwah

After Tawaf, pilgrims proceed to perform Sa’i, which commemorates the journey of Hagar (the wife of Prophet Ibrahim) as she searches for water for her son, Ismail. Pilgrims walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, located near the Kaaba.

The act of Sa’i reminds Muslims of patience, trust in Allah, and the rewards of perseverance.

4. Halq or Taqsir: Cutting Hair

The final step in Umrah is Halq (shaving the head for men) or Taqsir (trimming a small portion of hair for women). This act symbolizes spiritual renewal and humility before Allah. After this, the state of Ihram is lifted, and the pilgrimage is complete.

Spiritual Benefits and Rewards of Umrah

Umrah holds immense spiritual rewards and benefits for those who perform it sincerely. Some of these rewards include:

1. Expiation of Sins:
   • As mentioned in the hadith, Umrah serves as an expiation for sins committed between two Umrahs, offering a chance for believers to cleanse themselves from past transgressions.
2. A Path to Paradise:
   • Performing Umrah with sincerity and devotion is a means of drawing closer to Allah, with the ultimate reward being entry into Paradise.
3. Spiritual Rejuvenation:
   • Umrah provides an opportunity for spiritual renewal, allowing pilgrims to detach from worldly distractions and focus entirely on worship, repentance, and self-reflection.
4. Increased Provision and Blessings:
   • According to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), performing Umrah can bring about blessings in one’s wealth and provision. He said:
     

     “Perform Hajj and Umrah consecutively, for they remove poverty and sin as the bellows remove impurity from iron.” — Tirmidhi

When is the Best Time to Perform Umrah?

While Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, certain times are more favorable due to the spiritual rewards and atmosphere. Many Muslims choose to perform Umrah during the holy months of Ramadan, as the rewards of worship are said to be multiplied during this time. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) mentioned:

“Performing Umrah in Ramadan is equivalent to performing Hajj with me.” — Sahih Bukhari

Additionally, many pilgrims prefer to perform Umrah outside of the Hajj season to avoid the large crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Health Tips for Pilgrims | Staying Fit and Healthy During Umrah 2025

Conclusion: Why Every Muslim Should Consider Umrah

Umrah is a deeply personal and spiritually fulfilling journey that allows Muslims to reconnect with their faith and renew their devotion to Allah. Whether undertaken as a once-in-a-lifetime experience or performed regularly, Umrah offers immense rewards, both in this world and the hereafter. By understanding the significance, rituals, and benefits of Umrah, Muslims can better prepare for this sacred pilgrimage and make the most of their spiritual journey.

References:

1. “The Difference Between Hajj and Umrah.” BBC Religion.
2. “How to Perform Umrah: A Step-by-Step Guide.” Islamic Relief Worldwide.
3. “The Virtues and Benefits of Umrah.” The Muslim Vibe.
4. “Umrah in Ramadan: A Guide to Increased Spiritual Rewards.” Al Jazeera.