What is Umrah in Islam and Can It Be Done Multiple Times?

Published by Binte on 20 August, 2025 - 11:19

For millions of Muslims worldwide, visiting the holy city of Makkah is one of the greatest spiritual aspirations in life. While Hajj is an obligation once in a lifetime for those who are financially and physically able, Umrah—often called the “lesser pilgrimage”—is a voluntary act of worship that carries immense blessings. Many Muslims living in the United States often wonder what Umrah really entails, how it differs from Hajj, and whether it can be performed more than once in a lifetime.

Among the most spiritually rewarding times to perform Umrah is during the holy month of Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that performing Umrah in Ramadan carries the reward of Hajj, making it one of the most sought-after times for believers to embark on this journey. With mosques filled with nightly prayers, a vibrant atmosphere of devotion, and an unmatched sense of unity, Ramadan transforms the pilgrimage into an even deeper experience of faith. This is why many Muslims plan ahead and seek convenient Ramadan Umrah packages for pilgrims preparing their journey from the USA.

Understanding the Concept of Umrah

Umrah is an act of worship that involves visiting the Kaaba, the sacred House of Allah in Makkah, and performing a set of rituals. Unlike Hajj, Umrah is not obligatory but highly recommended in Islam. It can be performed at any time of the year, which makes it more flexible and accessible for Muslims around the world.

The Arabic word Umrah literally means “to visit a populated place.” Spiritually, it represents a journey of devotion, purification, and seeking forgiveness from Allah.

The Spiritual Significance of Umrah

Umrah provides Muslims with an opportunity to:

  • Renew their faith and strengthen their connection with Allah. 
  • Seek forgiveness for past sins.
  • Experience unity with the global Muslim community.
  • Engage in deep reflection away from the distractions of daily life.

Although Umrah is smaller in scale compared to Hajj, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasised its rewards. In one narration, he said: “From one Umrah to another is an expiation for what is between them.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)

The Rituals of Umrah

Performing Umrah involves four main steps:

1. Entering Ihram

Pilgrims enter a state of consecration known as Ihram. Men wear two white unstitched cloths, while women wear modest clothing that covers the body. Pilgrims make the intention (niyyah) for Umrah and recite the Talbiyah:
“Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk” (Here I am, O Allah, at Your service).

2. Tawaf

Pilgrims perform Tawaf, which is circling the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. Each circuit represents devotion and the oneness of Allah.

3. Sa’i

After Tawaf, pilgrims walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, commemorating the struggle of Hajar (the wife of Prophet Ibrahim) as she searched for water for her son, Ismail.

4. Halq or Taqsir

To complete the Umrah, men shave their heads (halq) or trim their hair (taqsir), while women cut a small portion of their hair. This act symbolises renewal, humility, and submission to Allah.

Can Umrah Be Done Multiple Times?

One of the most common questions is whether Umrah can be performed more than once. The answer is yes. Unlike Hajj, which is required only once in a lifetime, Umrah has no fixed limit. A Muslim can perform Umrah multiple times in their life, and even more than once within the same year if circumstances allow.

Evidence from the Sunnah

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ performed Umrah four times during his lifetime, showing that multiple Umrahs are permissible. Scholars agree that repeating Umrah is not only allowed but also rewarding, as each Umrah washes away sins committed since the previous one.

Practical Considerations

While it is possible to perform Umrah more than once during a single trip, scholars recommend balancing devotion with practicality. The financial cost, physical ability, and responsibilities back home should always be considered.

For Muslims in the USA, travelling to Saudi Arabia requires careful planning. Many choose to perform Umrah once per trip due to the cost of airfare and accommodation, while others may extend their stay to perform it multiple times.

Preparing for Umrah from the USA

If you are planning Umrah from the United States, here are some helpful tips:

1. Choose the Right Time

Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, but peak seasons such as Ramadan or school holidays usually come with higher costs. Planning ahead ensures affordable flights and accommodations.

2. Select a Reliable Package

Travel agencies in the USA offer comprehensive Umrah packages 2026, which usually include flights, visas, hotels, and transportation within Saudi Arabia. These packages help simplify the process, especially for first-time travellers or families.

3. Learn the Rituals

Before departing, pilgrims should educate themselves about the rituals of Umrah. Many Islamic centres in the USA offer seminars and online guides that prepare pilgrims spiritually and practically.

4. Health and Documentation

Ensure that your passport is valid, vaccinations are updated, and that you are physically prepared for the journey. Walking during Umrah rituals requires stamina, so light exercise beforehand is helpful.

Conclusion

Umrah is a profound act of worship in Islam that can be performed at any time of the year and more than once in a lifetime. It allows Muslims to renew their faith, cleanse their hearts, and draw closer to Allah. While Hajj is obligatory once, Umrah provides an ongoing opportunity for spiritual growth and forgiveness.

For Muslims in the USA planning ahead, choosing reliable Umrah packages 2026 can make the journey smooth and affordable. And when completing all the rituals, obtaining the proper Umrah visa ensures a hassle-free experience.

Ultimately, Umrah is not just about travelling to Makkah—it is about returning with a purified soul, renewed faith, and a stronger connection with Allah.