Where is Umrah in Islam’s Five Pillars? Understanding Its Significance

Published by Binte on 20 August, 2025 - 11:37

For Muslims across the globe, the Five Pillars of Islam provide the foundation of faith and practice. These pillars—Shahada (the declaration of faith), Salah (daily prayers), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting in Ramadan), and Hajj (pilgrimage)—are obligations that define a believer’s connection with Allah. Yet alongside these central acts of worship, another sacred journey holds a special place in the hearts of millions: Umrah.

While Umrah is not listed among the Five Pillars, it carries profound spiritual value. Understanding where Umrah stands within Islamic tradition helps believers appreciate its significance and prepare for the journey with the right mindset.

Is Umrah One of the Five Pillars?

Umrah is often called the “lesser pilgrimage” in comparison to Hajj, which is one of the Five Pillars. Unlike Hajj, which is obligatory once in a lifetime for all able Muslims, Umrah is recommended but not mandatory. This distinction highlights why Umrah does not occupy the same position as Hajj in the Five Pillars.

However, scholars emphasise that Umrah remains a Sunnah act with immense rewards. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ performed Umrah multiple times and encouraged believers to do so when possible. For Muslims in the UK and beyond, Umrah serves as a spiritual opportunity to reconnect with Allah outside of the specific days of Hajj.

Planning for Umrah from the UK

Muslims in the United Kingdom often plan their pilgrimages months, even years, in advance. With the increasing availability of organised tours and tailored itineraries, planning Umrah has become more convenient than ever. Travel agencies provide Umrah packages 2026, allowing families and individuals to secure their journey well in advance. These packages typically include flights, accommodations in Makkah and Madinah, transportation, and guidance to ensure pilgrims perform rituals correctly.

Early preparation also ensures affordability. With fluctuating airfare and hotel prices, securing packages in advance can save significant costs while giving peace of mind. Many UK Muslims also look for packages that align with school holidays, making it easier for families to travel together without disrupting daily routines.

The Spiritual Benefits of Umrah

Cleansing the Soul

One of the greatest virtues of Umrah is that it serves as an expiation for sins. As narrated in the Hadith, performing Umrah removes the sins committed between two Umrahs. This continuous renewal makes it an act of mercy for believers who strive to remain close to Allah.

Connection with Sacred History

Performing Umrah means walking in the footsteps of the Prophet Ibrahim (AS), his family, and the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. From circling the Kaaba during Tawaf to drinking Zamzam water, every ritual connects pilgrims to centuries of Islamic history.

Flexibility of Time

Unlike Hajj, which has specific dates in Dhul Hijjah, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year. This makes it an accessible act of worship for UK Muslims who may not be able to commit to Hajj immediately.

Building Family and Community Bonds

For many, Umrah is not just a personal journey but a family experience. Parents bring children to introduce them to sacred spaces, while groups of friends strengthen their bonds through collective worship. UK-based communities often travel together, making the journey both spiritual and socially enriching.

Rituals of Umrah

To fully appreciate Umrah’s role, one must understand its rituals:

  • Ihram – Entering the sacred state with specific garments and intentions. 
  • Tawaf – Circumambulating the Kaaba seven times as an act of devotion.
  • Sa’i – Walking between Safa and Marwah, retracing Hajar’s search for water.
  • Halq or Taqsir – Shaving or trimming the hair, symbolising humility and renewal.

Each ritual represents submission to Allah, reminding Muslims of the values embedded within the Five Pillars: faith, devotion, sacrifice, and community.

Umrah vs Hajj: Understanding the Difference

While both Hajj and Umrah take place in Makkah, they differ in their obligations and rituals. Hajj is compulsory and performed on specific dates, whereas Umrah is optional and can be completed in just a few hours. Yet, Umrah complements the spiritual essence of Hajj, offering Muslims a way to prepare themselves for the greater pilgrimage.

For UK Muslims, performing Umrah before Hajj often serves as valuable preparation. It familiarises pilgrims with the holy sites, rituals, and logistics, easing the experience of Hajj when the time comes.

Conclusion

Umrah may not be one of the Five Pillars of Islam, but it holds deep spiritual significance. It embodies devotion, humility, and renewal of faith, offering believers a unique opportunity to draw closer to Allah. For Muslims in the UK, preparing early through tailored travel options ensures both peace of mind and meaningful worship.

As you plan, many travel agencies provide seasonal and yearly offers. For example, December Umrah packages are especially popular among UK families due to school holidays and the cooler climate in Saudi Arabia. Whether performed in December or any other time, Umrah remains a cherished act of worship that strengthens one’s connection with Allah and complements the foundation of the Five Pillars.