Umrah has a quiet way of pulling the heart. Many people struggle to explain it. It brings clarity when life feels crowded. It creates a pause from work pressure, family responsibilities, and constant routines. It offers a moment to stand before the Kaaba and let worries loosen their grip.
Yet for many UK Muslims, planning Umrah can feel overwhelming. The steps may seem unclear. The crowds may feel intimidating. You might worry about making a mistake or forgetting something important. These thoughts are common, especially for first-time pilgrims.
That’s why we have written this guide to explain how to perform Umrah step by step. Everything here reflects the most common practice, without adding unnecessary stress or complicated details. You can read this before travelling to Umrah, or save it on your phone to read during the journey. Our goal is simple: to help you perform Umrah with calm, confidence, and ease.
Why Muslims Hold Umrah So Close to the Heart?
Umrah is a quiet space in a busy life. It gives you time to reflect on your choices and reset your priorities. It draws your heart close to Allah in a way hard to explain with words.
There is a well-known hadith in which the Prophet ﷺ said that one Umrah to the next wipes away the sins committed between them. This narration, reported in Sahih Muslim (1350), brings comfort to many believers. It reminds us that Allah values sincere effort, not perfection. The journey itself becomes part of His mercy.
Everything here reflects the most common practice, without adding unnecessary stress or complicated details. The goal is simple: to help you perform Umrah with calm, confidence, and ease.
Understanding How Umrah Works
Before looking at the details, it helps to know the simple structure. Umrah is made up of four main acts:
- Ihram.
- Tawaf around the Kaaba.
- Sa’i between Safa and Marwah.
- Cutting or trimming the hair.
Once these four steps feel familiar, the whole process of trying to perform Umrah becomes lighter and less intimidating.
Many UK travellers feel anxious before their first Umrah. They worry about forgetting the order or doing something wrong while in Ihram. Understanding the structure ahead of time removes much of that fear. The steps below are explained slowly so you can approach Umrah with confidence.
Getting Ready Before Leaving the UK
A calm Umrah begins with good preparation. Planning ahead reduces stress once you arrive and helps you stay focused on the purpose of your journey.
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Travel Documents and Entry Requirements
Check your passport months before travel. Saudi Arabia usually requires at least six months of validity from the date of entry. Many travellers only notice this close to departure, which creates unnecessary panic.
Visa rules change often. Some UK residents now apply for the Saudi tourist e-visa, while others still choose the traditional Umrah visa. Always rely on official sources, not hearsay or social media posts.
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Health Planning and Medication
Depending on the season, you may need a meningitis vaccination. Airlines can ask for proof. Book early, because GP appointments in the UK fill quickly.
If you take medication for asthma, allergies, blood pressure, or diabetes, carry extra doses. Keep your prescription labels and store important medicines in your hand luggage.
The temperature shift from the UK to Saudi Arabia can surprise your body. If you have hay fever or breathing trouble, be prepared with inhalers and tablets.
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Planning Your Budget as a UK Pilgrim
Saudi Arabia is more expensive than many expect. Food, transport, and hotels near the Haram can quickly add up. Many families choose cheap umrah packages to avoid last-minute costs and secure hotels within walking distance. If you want a complete Umrah package, you can contact Alhadi Travel, where expert Umrah advisers provide complete support.
And, when budgeting, consider these factors:
- Daily meals and drinks.
- Laundry.
- Wheelchair hire (if needed).
- Ihram items.
- Room upgrades.
- Taxi rides.
- Emergency spending.
Good planning removes half the stress.
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Packing for the Journey Ahead
Flights from London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Glasgow are long. Pack light, breathable clothing. Carry a spare top, especially if you plan to put on the Ihram during a stopover. Neck pillows, hydration sachets, and unscented toiletries make the journey easier. Remember: scented products cannot be used after entering Ihram.
Setting the Right Mindset Before Starting Umrah
Before any physical step, there is an inner one. Everything begins with your niyyah (intention). You decide quietly within yourself that you are travelling for Allah alone.
A hadith reported in Sahih Bukhari (6502) teaches that nothing brings a servant closer to Allah than fulfilling what He has made obligatory. While Umrah itself is voluntary, this hadith reminds us that sincere worship and obedience are deeply loved by Allah.
Another narration in Sahih Muslim (223) states that patience is light. This teaching becomes very important during Umrah. Queues grow long. Heat rises. Delays happen. Remembering this hadith helps you remain calm and focused throughout the journey.
Step 1: Entering the State of Ihram
Ihram is more than clothing. It’s a mindset of humility. Men wear two simple white cloths. Women wear loose, modest clothing without decoration.
Choosing the Right Time to Enter Ihram
Ihram must begin before crossing the miqat. Sometimes the pilot announces it. Sometimes they don’t. To stay safe, most UK pilgrims put on their Ihram early—either during a layover or well before the plane reaches the boundary line.
How to Enter the State of Ihram?
If possible, perform a full shower beforehand. If not, a normal wash is enough. Then:
- Put on Ihram clothing.
- Pray two rak’ah if you can.
- Make your intention in your heart to perform Umrah.
Recite the Talbiyah: Labayk Allahumma Umrah لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ عُمْرَةً “O Allah, here I am performing Umrah.”
Things You Must Avoid in Ihram
- Perfume.
- Cutting nails.
- Removing hair.
- Intimate relations.
- Arguing or shouting.
- Hunting or harming animals.
Unscented toiletries are essential. If you forget something, many shops near the Haram sell Ihram-friendly products.
Step 2: Tawaf Around the Holy Kaaba
Tawaf is one of the most emotional acts of Umrah. You walk seven rounds around the Kaaba, remembering your place in the world and the mercy of Allah.
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The First Sight of the Kaaba
Some people cry. Some freeze. Some feel calm. Some feel nothing at all because they’re exhausted from the flight. Every reaction is normal. Allah knows your heart better than you do.
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How to Perform Tawaf Properly
Stand facing the Black Stone from a safe distance. Raise your right hand and say Allahu Akbar. Begin walking anti-clockwise at a steady pace. Complete seven full rounds.
Avoid pushing or rushing. Touching the Black Stone is not required. Many UK pilgrims injure themselves attempting to reach it. Simply raising your hand towards it is sufficient.
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A Qur’an Verse Related to the Sacred House
وَطَهِّرْ بَيْتِيَ لِلطَّائِفِينَ Wa tahhir bayti liltta’ifeen
“Purify My House for those who perform Tawaf.” (Surah Al-Hajj 22:26)
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After Finishing Tawaf
If possible, pray two rak’ah near Maqam Ibrahim. If it’s too crowded, pray anywhere inside the Haram.
Drink Zamzam water slowly. Make duas for your future, your family, and for Allah to allow you to return again. This is also a beautiful time to renew your intention to perform Umrah with sincerity.
Step 3: Sa’i Between Safa and Marwah
Sa’i involves walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times. It commemorates the struggle of Hajar, who searched for water for her child with patience and trust in Allah.
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A Qur’an Verse About Safa and Marwah
إِنَّ الصَّفَا وَالْمَرْوَةَ مِنْ شَعَائِرِ اللَّهِ Inna as-Safa wal-Marwata min sha’a’irillah
“Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:158)
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How to Perform Sa’i
Begin at Safa, face the Kaaba, and make dua. Walk towards Marwah. Men walk faster in the green-lit section, while women walk at a normal pace. Upon reaching Marwah, make dua again. Returning to Safa completes one lap. Continue until seven laps are completed, ending at Marwah.
Many people underestimate the distance. Wear comfortable footwear and drink water regularly.
Step 4: Cutting or Trimming the Hair
This is the final act of Umrah. It symbolises completion and renewal.
- Men: shave or trim the hair short
- Women: snip a fingertip-length piece of hair
Once this step is done, your Umrah is complete. Many people feel emotional here; the journey you prayed for has become real. This moment also marks one more fulfillment of your intention to perform Umrah with focus and gratitude.
Common Mistakes During Umrah and How to Fix Them
Many UK pilgrims make similar mistakes:
| Mistake | Why It Happens | Easy Fix |
| Rushing Tawaf | Feeling pushed by crowds | Slow down, breathe |
| Touching the Black Stone | Thinking it’s required | Gesture only |
| Not hydrating | Heat difference | Drink regularly |
| Using scented items | Forgot to check labels | Keep unscented products only |
| Losing Sa’i laps | Tiredness | Use the phone counter |
Mistakes happen. Allah is gentle with His servants. But make sure to be careful and avoid these mistakes.
Useful Packing Guide for UK Travellers
Packing well helps maintain comfort and focus:
| Item | Why You Need It |
| Ihram clothes | Keep in hand luggage |
| Unscented soap/cream | Safe during Ihram |
| Rehydration salts | Helps with heat |
| Spare socks | Comfort during Sa’i |
| UK plug adapter | Some hotels differ |
| Lightweight bag | For sandals & water |
| Medicines | Keep prescriptions handy |
If packing feels stressful, some cheap umrah packages include essentials, which makes preparation easier for families.
A Simple Workflow for Umrah Steps
Many UK travellers prefer a clear mental flow:
| Step | What You Do |
| Ihram | Shower, intention, Talbiyah |
| Tawaf | Walk seven rounds |
| Prayer | Two rak’ah + Zamzam |
| Sa’i | Seven laps |
| Final Step | Trim or cut hair |
This table is helpful to screenshot and keep on your phone.
Understanding Challenges UK Pilgrims Commonly Face
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Heat and Hydration
Even during cooler months, the heat can feel intense after British weather. Drink water frequently and take shade breaks.
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Jet Lag
Long flights take a toll. Resting before starting Umrah is allowed. Worship is not a race.
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Busy School Holidays
Families often travel during Easter, summer, or December. Travel costs rise. Many people choose cheap umrah packages at these times to secure hotels closer to the Haram.
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Food Differences
New foods can feel heavy. Many travellers prefer lighter meals until their body adjusts.
Short Duas You Can Use Throughout Your Journey
- اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي Allahumma ighfir li “O Allah, forgive me.”
- رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ Rabbana atina fid dunya hasanah wa fil akhirati hasanah wa qina ‘adhab an-nar. “Our Lord grant us good in this world and good in the next, and protect us from the fire.”
- اللَّهُمَّ يَسِّرْ وَلَا تُعَسِّرْ Allahumma yassir wa la tu’assir. “O Allah, make things easy for me.”
No long duas are required. The best dua is the one spoken from your heart.
Travelling With Children or Elderly Relatives
Many UK families travel with kids, grandparents, or both. A few small steps make the journey smoother:
- Keep snacks for kids
- Use stroller-friendly paths
- Put ID wristbands on young children
- Choose hotels close to the Haram
- Use wheelchair services for elderly relatives
Some cheap umrah packages include wheelchair support, transfers, and hotel upgrades, useful for family groups.
A Sample Plan On How a Day Might Look
- Morning: Arrive in Jeddah or Madinah
- Afternoon: Travel to your hotel and rest
- Early Evening: Begin Tawaf
- Later Evening: Perform Sa’i
- Night: Trim hair and return to your room peacefully
This slow schedule helps your body adjust.
Keeping Your Heart Calm Throughout the Journey
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Stay Patient
Crowds come and go. Lines form. Heat rises. Each moment of patience is worship.
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Return to Your Intention
Say a short dua if you feel distracted. Remind yourself why you came.
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Find Stillness
Sit for a few minutes inside the Haram after finishing. These moments stay with you long after you return home.
Returning Home After Umrah
Many people feel emotional when they come back to the UK. Some feel energised, others feel a little empty, wishing they could have stayed longer.
To keep the connection alive:
- Pray on time.
- Read a little Qur’an daily.
- Make dua to return again.
- Bring small lessons from Umrah into your everyday routine.
The journey doesn’t end when the plane lands. It continues in your heart.
How Alhadi Travel Supports UK Pilgrims?
If you need guidance, a reliable plan, or a package that fits your budget, Alhadi Travel is here to help. Many pilgrims choose cheap umrah packages for peace of mind, especially first-time travellers who want support from start to end.
Whether you travel alone or with family, a good team makes the journey smoother and lets you focus on what matters most: your intention to perform Umrah with sincerity.