Hajj and Umrah Basics - Steps in Order
Hajj is obligatory once for the able; Umrah can be done anytime. Both revolve around ihram, tawaf of the Kaaba, sa’i between Safa and Marwah, and shaving or trimming.
Also searched as: hajj ka tarika | umrah ka tarika | how to do umrah | hajj steps
How to
Steps in order
- 1Enter ihram at the miqat with intention and talbiyah.
- 2Perform tawaf: seven circuits around the Kaaba.
- 3Pray two rakahs, drink Zamzam, then do sa’i between Safa and Marwah.
- 4Shave (halq) or trim (taqsir) to exit ihram.
Umrah in four acts
Enter ihram from the miqat with intention and talbiyah; perform tawaf (seven circuits) starting at the Black Stone; pray two rakahs, drink Zamzam; do sa’i (seven rounds); then shave or trim - Umrah is complete.
Avoid the ihram prohibitions: stitched clothing for men, perfume, hunting, marital relations and quarreling.
Hajj in brief
8th Dhul-Hijjah (Tarwiyah): ihram and Mina. 9th (Arafah): the standing at Arafat - the heart of Hajj - until sunset, then Muzdalifah. 10th: stoning Jamarat al-Aqabah, sacrifice, shave, tawaf al-ifadah. 11th-13th: stoning all three jamarat and farewell tawaf.
Hajj needs physical and financial ability and a mahram arrangement for women per school rulings - plan through licensed groups.
Sources & review
Quran 3:97; Hajj described in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim
Learn personal details from a qualified teacher; minor school differences exist.
Educational content — not a fatwa. See methodology and disclaimer.
Reviewed • 2026-01-01Our methodology
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the best dua of Arafah?
La ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lah - the Prophet called it the best supplication of the day of Arafah.
Can children perform Umrah?
Yes - guardians enter ihram for them and perform the rites on their behalf.
What breaks Umrah?
Violating ihram restrictions needs expiation (dam) per the violation - the talbiyah, tawaf and sa’i duas are on our dua pages.
Duas
Related duas
Learn