First-Time Umrah Guide: Step by Step

Before you leave Pakistan

Make your intention (niyyah) for Umrah sincerely, settle any debts and disagreements, and learn the steps below before you travel — it removes stress at the Haram. Download the Nusuk app and create your account in Pakistan; you will need it to book your Rawdah slot in Madinah and it is the official channel for permits.

• Keep passport, visa, tickets and hotel vouchers in your hand luggage
• Carry some Saudi Riyals for the first day; cards work widely afterwards
• Save our WhatsApp number and your group leader's number in your phone

Step 1 — Ihram at the Miqat

Ihram is the sacred state you enter at the Miqat (the boundary points around Makkah). If you fly from Pakistan towards Jeddah, the Miqat is announced on the flight and most pilgrims enter Ihram on the plane before crossing it; many prefer to wear the Ihram garments from home or the airport and make the intention and Talbiyah at the announcement. Men wear two unstitched white cloths; women wear their normal modest dress with a head covering (the face veil is not worn in Ihram). After entering Ihram, recite the Talbiyah frequently: “Labbayk Allahumma labbayk…”

Step 2 — Tawaf of the Kaaba

In Masjid al-Haram, you perform Tawaf: seven circuits around the Kaaba, starting from the corner of the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad), keeping the Kaaba on your left. Do not push or harm anyone to reach the Black Stone — pointing towards it from a distance is sufficient. After Tawaf, pray two rak'ah (ideally behind Maqam Ibrahim, or anywhere in the mosque if it is crowded) and drink Zamzam water.

Step 3 — Sa'i between Safa and Marwah

Next perform Sa'i: seven lengths walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah, beginning at Safa and ending at Marwah, remembering Hajar's search for water for her son Ismail (peace be upon them). Men jog lightly in the marked green-light section. Wheelchairs and electric scooters are available for elderly and disabled pilgrims.

Step 4 — Halq or Taqsir (completing Umrah)

Finally, men shave the head (Halq, more rewarding) or trim the hair evenly (Taqsir); women trim a fingertip's length of hair. With this, your Umrah is complete and the restrictions of Ihram end. May Allah accept it from you.

In Madinah

Madinah has no Ihram or Umrah rites — it is a visit of love and respect. Pray in Masjid an-Nabawi, give salam at the Prophet's grave with full etiquette, and book your visit to the Rawdah (Riyad al-Jannah) through the Nusuk app — slots fill quickly, so book as early as the app allows. Common Ziyarat include Masjid Quba (praying two rak'ah there carries the reward of an Umrah), Mount Uhud and the Qiblatain Mosque.

Practical tips that really help

• The Haram is vast — note your hotel direction and gate numbers to avoid getting lost
• Friday fills up hours early; go well before Jumu'ah time
• Stay hydrated and rest — elderly pilgrims should use wheelchairs without embarrassment
• Keep shoes in a small bag you carry with you
• Rawdah and Umrah permits are only through official channels — never pay anyone for 'special access'