What is Umrah? A complete guide to the Islamic pilgrimage

Millions of Muslims from around the world travel annually to Mecca in Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, a voluntary pilgrimage deeply rooted in the Islamic faith.

This guide explains what Umrah is, how to prepare for the pilgrimage, and the latest visa requirements for traveling to Saudi Arabia.

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What is Umrah?

Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and is considered a significant act of worship for Muslims seeking closeness to Allah. The word Umrah in Arabic means “to visit a populated place.”

The first Umrah, known as the Umrah of Dhu'l-Qada, was performed by the Islamic prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his followers after migrating to Medina.

At the heart of Umrah is the Kaaba, also called the House of God*, which is the most sacred site in Islam. Muslims worldwide face the Kaaba while offering their five daily prayers, symbolizing unity and devotion.

This spiritual journey welcomes men and women from all backgrounds, emphasizing equality, faith, and humility before Allah.

Benefits and importance of Umrah

Umrah is a profound spiritual experience where Muslims seek forgiveness, purify their souls, and renew their faith. It offers:

Spiritual renewal: Strengthening faith and seeking closeness to Allah
Forgiveness of sins: Umrah is believed to cleanse past sins for sincere worshipers
Unity and equality: Pilgrims of all backgrounds unite in devotion

When can Umrah be performed?

Unlike the Hajj, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year.

However, many pilgrims choose to visit during Ramadan or the months of Rajab and Sha'ban. During these holy months, Muslims believe that there is more mercy and acceptance of prayers, as well as a greater reward for worshiping.

Ra'eesah Manack, iVisa travel expert: "Keeping track of Tawaf rounds can feel overwhelming in the moment. Some pilgrims swear by the rubber band trick—wear seven bands on one wrist and move one to the other after each lap. It’s a practical way to stay focused without distractions."

Who can perform Umrah?

Men and women of all ages can perform Umrah. However, consider the following:

Women under 45 must be accompanied by a mahram (male relative above the age of 17 who acts as her guardian).
Women over 45 can travel and perform Umrah in a tour group without a mahram.

Introduction of new Umrah Visa rule

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia recently made significant updates to the Umrah Visa rules.

Umrah Visas now remain valid for 90 days from the issue date. Previously, the validity of the visa began once you arrived in Saudi Arabia. This means you have 90 days to enter Saudi Arabia once the visa is issued.
In addition, Umrah Visas for foreign pilgrims will expire on 15 Dhu al-Qa’dah. The previous expiry date was 29 Dhu al-Qa’dah. This change allows Saudi authorities more time to prepare for the Hajj season, aiming to improve the experience for both Umrah and Hajj pilgrims.

All international pilgrims must leave the country by the new expiry date. Overstaying an Umrah Visa can result in penalties, such as fines, for the pilgrim as well as the travel company that arranged the visa.

Differences between Umrah and Hajj

Umrah and Hajj are two separate pilgrimages with different requirements:

Hajj is an obligatory pilgrimage for Muslims who are able to undertake it (financially capable and physically fit). It should be performed at least once in a lifetime as it forms one of the five pillars of Islam.
Umrah is voluntary and can be performed multiple times throughout a lifetime.
Hajj can only take place between the 8th and 13th of Dhul Hijjah each year, while Umrah can be performed year-round, except during Hajj season.
Hajj can last about five to six days, while Umrah can be performed in one day.

Umrah rituals and practices

There are two types of Umrah:

Umrah al-Mufradah, which is performed independently of Hajj and can be completed anytime during the year except during the days of Hajj; and Umrah al-Tamattu, which is performed alongside Hajj, usually during Dhul Hijjah and just before the main Hajj rituals begin.

Both types of Umrah involve sacred rituals that emphasize spiritual submission to Allah, focusing on devotion rather than appearance.

Completing these acts with sincerity is believed to cleanse the pilgrim of their past sins. Let's take a closer look at the key rituals.

1. Ihram (intention for pilgrimage)

Before arriving in Mecca, pilgrims enter a state of Ihram, a holy state, upon reaching the Miqat (designated boundaries that pilgrims intending to perform Umrah must cross).

Ra'eesah explains, "men wear two white, unstitched garments as Ihram attire, while women wear modest clothing that covers the entire body except the face and hands. Pilgrims recite the Talbiyah prayer as they begin their pilgrimage."

2. Tawaf (circling the Kaaba)

Pilgrims perform Tawaf by circling the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction. Each round begins and ends at the Black Stone.

3. Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah)

After Tawaf, pilgrims walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, reenacting Hagar’s search for water for her son Ishmael.

4. Halq or Taqsir (shaving or trimming hair)

Men shave or trim their hair, while women cut a small portion. This marks the completion of Umrah.

"Long hours performing Tawaf and Sa’i under the sun can take a toll, so it's important to stay hydrated. Carry a few sachets or rehydration tablets with you to help replace lost electrolytes and keep your energy up throughout the pilgrimage," advises Ra'eesah.

Duas to recite during Umrah

A dua is an act of supplication, meaning to ask or beg for something with humility or earnestness.

Muslim worship involves asking Allah for forgiveness, mercy, favors, and answers to prayers. The following are recommended duas to recite while performing Umrah:

Dua for traveling
Dua for the first sight on Kabba
Dua for entering Haram
Dua before entering in ihram
Dua for ihram
Dua for Tawaaf and after completing Tawaaf
Dua while drinking Zamzam
Dua for Sa'ii
Dua while leaving the Masjid-al-Haram

How to prepare for Umrah

To ensure a fulfilling Umrah experience, consider the following preparations:

Physical preparation: Umrah involves walking long distances, so it’s helps to be physically fit. Consider light training before your trip.
Dress appropriately: The Ihram attire should be suitable for the weather. Wear comfortable shoes or sandals for walking.
Mental and spiritual preparation: Learn about the rituals, duas, and historical significance of Umrah before your journey.

Ra'eesah recommends: "Sew a discreet, small pocket into your Ihram to hold essentials like a small amount of cash, a tasbeeh, or a dua card. This prevents frequent trips to lockers."

When is the best time to perform Umrah?

Since Umrah can be performed year-round, the timing can affect your experience.

Spring: The temperatures are neither too hot nor too cold, and it can get quite crowded.
Summer: This is the hottest season, so there are fewer pilgrims around this time. Finding affordable flights and accommodation is possible, but preparation against the heat is recommended.
Autumn: Pleasant weather and reduced humidity after the summer heat make autumn a comfortable time for pilgrimage.
Winter: Ramadan occurs during this season, and the temperatures are cooler. This makes winter one of the most popular seasons for Umrah and, therefore, the most expensive.

Do you need a visa for Umrah?

If you're not from a visa-exempt country, you'll need either a Saudi Arabia Umrah Visa or a Saudi Tourist eVisa to perform Umrah.

How to easily apply for a Saudi Visa

Travelers from eligible countries can apply for an Umrah Visa online through our website or the iVisa app.

We offer a single-entry permit valid for 90 days, and it's intended specifically for performing Umrah.

If you're not eligible for the Umrah Visa, you can apply for a Saudi Tourist eVisa, which also allows you to perform Umrah (except during Hajj season).

This is a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 90 days per visit.

"If you're a Muslim without a traditional Muslim name, consider bringing a certificate from a mosque or Islamic center to verify your faith. Non-Muslims can apply for the Tourist eVisa but cannot perform Umrah," says Ra'eesah.

Apply for a Saudi Visa now

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