alUmrah

Umrah is a voluntary Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca that can be undertaken at any time of the year by Muslims. The term Umrah is Arabic, often translated as “visitation” or “circumambulation.” In contrast to Hajj, Umrah is optional and involves a shorter sequence of rites.

The core rites are performed in a specific order: entering a state of ihram at a designated miqat, performing tawaf (circling the Kaaba seven times), performing sa'i (walking and running seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah), and completing the rites by shaving the head or cutting a portion of the hair (tahallul). These actions are carried out with intention (niyyah) and adherence to conditions of purity and modest conduct.

Umrah differs from Hajj in timing and scope; it can be carried out at any time and involves fewer rituals and a shorter duration. Hajj has fixed dates in the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah and includes additional rites and requirements.

The practice is closely associated with the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his wife Hajar, as well as their son Ishmael. Rites center on the Kaaba, the cube-shaped structure inside Masjid al-Haram, which is the holiest site in Islam. The performance of Umrah is regarded as a means of spiritual renewal and devotion.

Practical considerations include travel arrangements, accommodation, and understanding the rules of ihram, which govern clothing and conduct. Men typically wear two white seamless garments; women wear modest dress. In the state of ihram, certain actions are prohibited, such as the use of scented products, clipping nails, hunting, or engaging in sexual activity. Umrah is commonly performed year-round and can be incorporated with other visits to Saudi Arabia.