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Landing in Makkah for the first time is one thing. Arriving spiritually prepared is another. For many UK Muslims planning their Umrah, the steps are easier to remember than the practical details. A successful journey begins with understanding the rituals, preparing for Ihram and knowing what to expect before you fly.
Umrah is often called the “lesser pilgrimage” to the Holy Kaabah in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Unlike Hajj, which takes place on specific dates in Dhul Hijjah, Umrah can generally be performed throughout the year, subject to official restrictions. Its religious classification differs between Islamic schools: some consider it obligatory for those who meet the conditions, while others regard it as a confirmed Sunnah. This flexibility helps many British Muslims plan a shorter pilgrimage around work, family commitments and school holidays.
This guide explains how to perform Umrah step by step, following the established Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Once you understand the religious requirements, TravelApp can help with the practical arrangements, including flights, accommodation and available package options.
Planning Umrah from the UK? Tell us your travel dates, departure airport and group size to request a quote.
Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to the Kaabah in Makkah that involves four core rites: Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, and Halq or Taqsir. Pilgrims enter the sacred state of Ihram, circle the Kaabah seven times, walk between Safa and Marwa, and then shave or trim their hair to complete the pilgrimage.
Unlike Hajj, Umrah does not have a single set period in the Islamic calendar, although Saudi Arabia may impose seasonal restrictions on when pilgrims can enter or perform it. Ramadan is particularly popular because authentic hadith describe the reward of Umrah during this month as equivalent to Hajj in reward. This does not replace the obligation to perform Hajj when a Muslim meets the conditions.
For UK pilgrims, preparation includes learning the rites, checking the relevant miqat for the flight route, confirming entry requirements and arranging suitable accommodation.
A practical tip for UK pilgrims: If you are flying directly to Jeddah to perform Umrah, you will generally need to enter Ihram before crossing the relevant miqat, which may happen while you are still on the plane. Changing into Ihram at the departure airport can be more convenient. Your exact arrangements depend on your route and itinerary.
You can compare flights from London towards Jeddah and Madinah, Manchester to Jeddah and Birmingham to Jeddah.
Flying from Manchester or Birmingham? Speak to TravelApp about your route and travel arrangements before booking.
The main differences between Hajj and Umrah are their timing, rituals and religious status. Hajj takes place on specific dates in Dhul Hijjah and includes additional rites, such as standing at Arafah. Umrah involves fewer rites and can generally be performed throughout the year, subject to official restrictions.
| Feature | Umrah | Hajj |
| Timing | Generally throughout the year, subject to official restrictions | Specific days in Dhul Hijjah |
| Religious status | Obligatory according to some Islamic schools; a confirmed Sunnah according to others | Obligatory once in a lifetime for eligible Muslims |
| Main rituals | Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i and hair removal or trimming | Includes additional rites, including standing at Arafah |
| Duration | Core rituals may take several hours | Usually requires several days |
| Travel arrangements | Eligible Umrah visa or another permitted entry route | Separate approved Hajj arrangements and visa requirements |
Both pilgrimages are important acts of worship, but they have different requirements. Hajj shares some rituals with Umrah but includes additional rites performed on specific dates in Dhul Hijjah, including standing at Arafah, spending time at Muzdalifah and performing rites at Mina. If you need guidance on a specific religious ruling, consult a qualified scholar.
The four core rites of Umrah are Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, and Halq or Taqsir. The usual sequence is to enter Ihram before crossing the relevant miqat, circle the Kaabah seven times, complete seven legs between Safa and Marwa, and then shave or trim the hair to complete Umrah. The Talbiyah, two rakats after Tawaf and drinking Zamzam are also established practices associated with the pilgrimage.
The following steps explain the usual sequence and include practical guidance for pilgrims travelling from the UK. Some details of the rituals differ between Islamic schools. If you are unsure about a specific ruling, seek guidance from a qualified scholar before travelling.
For UK pilgrims, the practical guidelines also include checking passport validity, confirming the appropriate visa or travel authorisation, understanding airline baggage rules and checking seasonal restrictions before booking. Hajj requires separate approved arrangements. For the latest requirements, consult the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and the UK government's guidance on Saudi Arabia entry requirements and pilgrimage.
Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim enters when beginning Umrah. It involves making the intention for the pilgrimage and observing specific restrictions.
Before entering Ihram, it is recommended to perform ghusl, attend to personal grooming and apply perfume to the body, not the Ihram garments. Complete these preparations before making the intention and entering the state of Ihram.
Make your intention for Umrah before crossing the designated miqat boundary. The intention is fundamentally in the heart; a pilgrim may also say the prescribed words for beginning Umrah.
If you are flying from London, Manchester, Birmingham or another UK airport, check your flight route and the miqat relevant to your journey.
Passengers flying directly to Jeddah for Umrah commonly need to enter Ihram before crossing the miqat while airborne. Changing into Ihram at the departure airport is often more practical than waiting until you are on the plane. Follow airline announcements and seek guidance if your route includes a connection.
If you are travelling to Madinah first, your arrangements may differ depending on your itinerary and when you intend to begin Umrah.
You can compare flights from London towards Jeddah and Madinah, Manchester to Jeddah or Birmingham to Jeddah.
Travelling for Umrah for the first time? Contact TravelApp to discuss your flight route and travel arrangements before booking.
After making your intention, recite the Talbiyah:
Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk. Innal-hamda wan-ni'mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika lak.
Meaning: Here I am, O Allah, here I am. You have no partner; here I am. All praise, blessings and sovereignty belong to You. You have no partner.
Men generally recite the Talbiyah aloud, while women recite it quietly enough not to disturb others, following the guidance applicable to them.
Continue reciting it during your journey until you begin Tawaf. Once Tawaf starts, you stop the Talbiyah and focus on the rites and supplications appropriate to that stage.
Tawaf involves walking around the Kaabah seven times inside Masjid al-Haram.
Begin each circuit at the Black Stone, Al-Hajar al-Aswad, and move anticlockwise, keeping the Kaabah on your left. Complete seven circuits, returning to the starting point each time.
If it is safe and possible without pushing or disturbing others, you may touch or kiss the Black Stone. If the area is crowded, do not force your way through other pilgrims. You can gesture towards the Black Stone as you pass.
You can make personal supplications during Tawaf in Arabic or another language you understand. There is no need to memorise a different prescribed dua for every circuit. Between the Yemeni Corner and the Black Stone, a well-known supplication is:
Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina adhaban-nar.
Meaning: Our Lord, grant us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.
Crowds can be dense, especially during Ramadan and school holidays. Walk at a comfortable pace and follow the instructions of the Haram staff. If you need to stop, move somewhere that does not obstruct other pilgrims.
Wudu is required for Tawaf according to the majority of Islamic scholars. If your wudu breaks, seek guidance from a qualified scholar or group leader on how to proceed according to the school of thought you follow.
After completing seven circuits, pray two rakats, traditionally near Maqam Ibrahim, the Station of Abraham.
If the area is crowded, do not obstruct other worshippers or insist on praying directly behind Maqam Ibrahim. You can pray elsewhere in Masjid al-Haram.
This is an established Sunnah practice after Tawaf. Details of its ruling and how to manage particular circumstances can vary in scholarly explanations.
Zamzam water is available at designated points in and around Masjid al-Haram.
Many pilgrims drink Zamzam after Tawaf and make dua, asking Allah for goodness, guidance, forgiveness and well-being. There is no need to rush this part of the journey.
Keep your belongings secure and follow the mosque's instructions about water containers and movement through busy areas.
Sa’i is the ritual walk between Safa and Marwa, commemorating Hajar's search for water for her son Ismail.
Begin at Safa and walk towards Marwa. The journey from Safa to Marwa counts as one leg, and the return journey counts as another. Complete seven legs, finishing at Marwa.
At Safa, face the direction of the Kaabah and make supplications. You can also make personal dua throughout Sa’i.
A section of the route is marked with green lights. Men are traditionally instructed to walk briskly or jog lightly between these markers when able. Women generally walk at their normal pace. Follow current site guidance and do not rush if doing so would cause discomfort or endanger others.
Pilgrims who need mobility assistance should check the available arrangements before travelling, particularly if they have specific accessibility needs.
The final rite is removing or trimming the hair. Once you have completed this stage, you leave the state of Ihram, subject to the applicable rules.
For men:
Both are recognised options, although shaving the head is generally considered more virtuous for men in the established Sunnah.
For women: Women do not shave their heads. They trim a small amount from the ends of their hair, following the guidance of the Islamic school they follow.
With the hair rite completed, your Umrah is finished. You can change into ordinary clothing and resume activities that were restricted during Ihram.
Many pilgrims then spend additional time in Makkah or travel to Madinah to visit the Prophet's Mosque. A visit to Madinah is not a required rite of Umrah, but it can be a meaningful addition to your trip.
If you would like to include both holy cities, explore TravelApp's Umrah packages and ask about itineraries that include Makkah and Madinah.
The Talbiyah is the main recurring recitation before Tawaf. During Tawaf and Sa’i, you can make personal supplications, remember Allah and ask for forgiveness, guidance and blessings.
You do not need to memorise a long list of duas to perform Umrah. Learning a few supplications with meanings you understand may help you focus on worship.
If someone you know is travelling for Umrah, you can wish them an accepted pilgrimage by saying Umrah Mabroorah. The expression is commonly used as a well-wish meaning an accepted or blessed Umrah.
The rituals, from entering Ihram to Halq or Taqsir, take about three to five hours. This depends on how busy the Haram is during your visit. Most pilgrims book longer trips. A first visit usually lasts 5 to 7 days. If you want to visit Madinah, aim for 10 days or more.
A 7-day Umrah package from the UK costs between £1,000 and £1,500 per person. Prices vary by season, hotel quality, and the distance to the Haram. During Ramadan and school holidays, costs rise sharply. If you’re on a budget, consider travelling in quieter months like Muharram or Safar.
TravelApp’s Umrah packages show current pricing and instalment options if you want an up-to-date figure.
The total cost depends on your departure airport, travel dates, airline, hotel category, room occupancy, transfers and visa arrangements.
| Cost factor | What to consider |
| Flights | Direct and connecting routes, baggage and departure airport |
| Hotels | Distance from the Haram, room type and meal arrangements |
| Visa or travel authorisation | Eligibility, fees and applicable entry conditions |
| Transfers | Airport transfers and travel between Makkah and Madinah |
| Meals and personal spending | Daily food, shopping and other expenses |
| Travel insurance | Medical cover, cancellation and other relevant protection |
Prices can rise during Ramadan, school holidays and other high-demand periods. Travelling outside peak dates may offer more choice, but compare the full package rather than relying on a headline price alone.
For current options, explore TravelApp's Umrah packages or request a quote based on your dates, preferred hotel standard and group size.
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Women follow the same core sequence of Umrah, but some practical and religious details differ.
Women can wear modest clothing that meets Islamic requirements. There is no requirement to wear white, and a woman does not need a special uniform for Ihram.
The rules concerning face coverings, gloves and other clothing details should be checked against the scholarly guidance you follow. The traditional rules for a woman in Ihram differ from the clothing rules that apply outside Ihram.
Women complete Umrah by trimming a small amount of hair rather than shaving the head. Ask a qualified scholar if you need clarification about the appropriate amount and method.
If you are travelling with children, older relatives or a group of women, consider hotel distance, room arrangements, airport transfers and the amount of walking required.
Contact TravelApp to discuss your group's travel requirements and accommodation preferences before requesting a quote.
Preparing your documents and essentials in advance can make the journey easier.
Before departure, check the latest Saudi Arabia entry requirements and the airline baggage rules that apply to your route.
Once you understand the rituals, the next step is choosing travel arrangements that suit your dates, budget and preferred level of convenience.
Decide whether you want to travel during Ramadan, a school holiday or a quieter period. Check official Hajj and Umrah season restrictions before committing to flights and hotels.
Consider London, Manchester, Birmingham and other convenient UK airports. Compare direct and connecting flights, baggage allowances, arrival times and the airport you will use to reach Makkah or Madinah.
Hotel distance from Masjid al-Haram can affect your daily routine, especially if you are travelling with children or older relatives. Compare walking distances, room occupancy, meal plans and transport arrangements.
The correct entry permission depends on your nationality, passport, travel dates and purpose of travel. Eligible British citizens may have access to an electronic travel authorisation or another permitted visa route for Umrah outside the Hajj season. Requirements can change, so check the latest official guidance before booking.
Arranging flights, hotels and transfers separately can provide flexibility, but it also means coordinating different bookings. A package may simplify the process by bringing key arrangements together.
TravelApp offers Umrah packages from the UK for travellers comparing flights, accommodation and related services. Depending on the selected package, arrangements may include flights, hotel stays, transfers and visa assistance. Confirm exactly what is included in your itinerary before paying.
If you want to add time in Madinah or combine your pilgrimage with another destination, explore Umrah holiday options.
Tell us when you want to travel, where you would like to depart from and how many people are travelling. TravelApp can help you explore suitable options and clarify the services included in your proposed itinerary.
Whether you are planning your first Umrah or returning for another pilgrimage, comparing flights, accommodation and travel dates early can make the practical arrangements easier to manage.
Ready to plan your Umrah from the UK?
Quick answers to common questions. Reach out if you need more help.
Ihram (intention and sacred clothing), then reciting the Talbiyah. Next, Tawaf (seven circuits around the Kaabah) comes. After that, you pray two rakat at Maqam Ibrahim. Drink Zamzam water, then perform Sa'i (seven trips between Safa and Marwa). Finally, finish with Halq or Taqsir (shaving or trimming the hair).
After entering Ihram at the miqat, your first stop in Makkah is the Masjid al-Haram to begin Tawaf around the Kaabah. Everything else, including Sa'i, follows from there.
No, it's Sunnah, which means it's highly recommended. The Prophet (peace be upon him) prayed it often. However, your Umrah is still valid if you pray it away from Maqam Ibrahim or skip it due to real difficulty.
While in Ihram, spouses should avoid intimacy and anything that might lead to it. This includes kissing and flirtatious behavior until Umrah is complete. Ordinary contact, like holding hands, is usually fine. If you're unsure, it's best to consult a knowledgeable scholar before you travel.
The traditional greeting is “Umrah Mabroorah”, meaning “may your Umrah be accepted.” It's the same well-wish used for Hajj and a nice thing to say to a friend or family member before they set off.
In addition to your package, flight, and hotel costs, budget for your visa, local transport, meals, and some spending money for gifts. Many UK pilgrims set aside an extra £200 to £400 beyond their package price. This amount can vary based on trip length and personal spending habits.
Yes. The rituals take just a few hours. A 5 to 7 day trip lets you perform Umrah, rest, and explore Makkah. You'll also have a day or two free in case you need extra time for flights or visas.
Prices are usually lowest outside Ramadan, school holidays and the Hajj season. Months like Muharram and Safar tend to see quieter crowds and better prices on flights and hotels.
Umrah involves four core rites: Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, and Halq or Taqsir. Pilgrims enter Ihram before crossing the relevant miqat, circle the Kaabah seven times, walk seven legs between Safa and Marwa, and then shave or trim their hair to complete Umrah.
Hajj shares some rituals with Umrah but includes additional rites performed on specific dates in Dhul Hijjah, including standing at Arafah, spending time at Muzdalifah and performing rites at Mina. Hajj is obligatory once in a lifetime for eligible Muslims, while the religious classification of Umrah differs between Islamic schools.
Pilgrims should learn the relevant religious requirements, check current Saudi visa and entry rules, and consult a qualified scholar if they need guidance on specific rulings.
