How to Do Umrah Step by Step with Essential Duas

Published by Binte on 20 August, 2025 - 11:32

Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey for Muslims around the world. Unlike Hajj, it is not obligatory, but it carries immense rewards and blessings for those who perform it with sincerity. For Muslims in the UK, planning Umrah requires both spiritual preparation and practical arrangements to ensure a smooth and memorable pilgrimage.

In this guide, we will walk you through how to do Umrah step by step with essential duas, while also providing useful tips for UK travellers.

Step 1: Preparation Before the Journey

Before setting out for Umrah, make sure you prepare both spiritually and physically.

  • Spiritual Preparation: Strengthen your intention (niyyah) to perform Umrah purely for the sake of Allah. Learn about the rites, memorise or carry essential duas, and seek forgiveness from others before you leave. 
  • Practical Preparation: Arrange travel documents, book accommodation, and pack Ihram clothes (two white unstitched sheets for men; modest Islamic dress for women). Don’t forget prayer beads, a pocket Qur’an, and a small dua book.

For those in the UK, travel is made easier with dedicated London Umrah packages, which often include flights, accommodation near the Haramain, and guided assistance to help first-timers.

Step 2: Entering the State of Ihram

Ihram is the sacred state that every pilgrim must enter before starting the rituals of Umrah.

  1. Where to Wear Ihram: Men should wear the two white sheets, while women should wear simple, modest clothing. 
  2. Niyyah (Intention): At the Miqat (appointed boundary), make the intention for Umrah by saying:“Labbayka Allahumma Umrah” (Here I am, O Allah, intending Umrah).
  3. Talbiyah: Recite the Talbiyah frequently until you reach the Haram:“Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la shareeka laka labbayk, innal-hamda wan-ni’mata laka wal-mulk, la shareeka lak.”

Step 3: Performing Tawaf (Circumambulation of the Kaaba)

Tawaf is one of the most powerful moments of Umrah, as you circle the Kaaba with millions of fellow Muslims.

  1. Start Point: Begin at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad). If possible, touch or kiss it. If not, point towards it with your right hand. 
  2. Circling: Walk counterclockwise around the Kaaba seven times. Men should uncover their right shoulder during Tawaf (Idtiba).
  3. Duas During Tawaf: You can recite any dua from the heart, Qur’anic verses, or the following popular supplication:“Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina ‘adhaban-nar.”
    (Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.)
  4. End of Tawaf: After completing seven rounds, pray two rak‘ahs near Maqam Ibrahim if possible.

Step 4: Sa’i Between Safa and Marwah

After Tawaf, you perform Sa’i, which commemorates the journey of Hajar (AS) in search of water for her son Ismail (AS).

  1. Starting Point: Begin at Safa Hill, facing the Kaaba, and make the following intention: “Inna as-Safa wal-Marwata min sha’a’irillah.”
    (Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah.)
  2. Walking Between the Hills: Walk seven times between Safa and Marwah, making duas of your choice.
  3. Popular Dua for Sa’i:
    “Rabbighfir warham innaka anta al-A’azzul-Akram.”
    (My Lord, forgive and have mercy, indeed You are the Most Mighty, the Most Generous.)

Step 5: Shaving or Trimming the Hair

The final step of Umrah is to shave (for men) or trim (for both men and women) the hair.

  • Men: Shaving the head is highly recommended, though trimming is also permissible. 
  • Women: Cut a small portion of hair (about the length of a fingertip).

With this, your Umrah is complete.

Essential Duas to Remember During Umrah

While there are no strict duas you must recite, here are some powerful and recommended ones:

  • During Ihram: Talbiyah. 
  • At the Kaaba: Supplications for forgiveness, guidance, and blessings.
  • During Tawaf:
    • “SubhanAllahi walhamdulillahi wa la ilaha illAllahu wallahu Akbar.” 
    • “Allahumma inni as’aluka ridaaka wal-jannah, wa a’oodhu bika min sakhatika wan-naar.”
  • At Safa and Marwah: Dua for mercy, forgiveness, and provision.

Remember, the most important thing is sincerity. Dua can be made in any language and from the heart.

Tips for UK Pilgrims

  • Book Early: The best flights and hotels sell out quickly during peak seasons (Ramadan, school holidays). 
  • Travel Insurance: Make sure you have coverage for health and emergencies.
  • Group vs. Private Packages: Groups can be more affordable, while private packages give more comfort and flexibility.
  • Stay Connected: Carry a UK SIM card with roaming or buy a local SIM in Saudi Arabia to stay in touch with family.

Conclusion

Performing Umrah is a spiritual journey that strengthens your connection with Allah and provides a lifetime of blessings. For UK Muslims, planning ahead ensures that the journey remains peaceful and focused on worship rather than logistics. From Ihram to Tawaf, Sa’i, and shaving, every step of Umrah carries immense significance and reward when done with sincerity.

If you are looking for reliable guidance, an Islamic travel agency in the UK can help organise your trip, ensuring that flights, accommodation, and ground arrangements are taken care of, allowing you to focus fully on your worship. Many agencies now also provide month-by-month options, such as October Umrah packages, making it easier for families and individuals to plan their journey around specific dates. May Allah accept your Umrah and grant you the strength to perform it with devotion.