How to Perform Umrah According to the Quran and Sunnah
One of the most beautiful acts of ibadah in Islam is Umrah. To gain the Almighty’s pleasure and purify their hearts and souls, Muslims perform Umrah even though it is not obligatory upon them. Umrah according to the Quran and Sunnah is a spiritual journey that strengthens faith and allows Muslims to ask Allah for forgiveness for their past sins.
After completing their Umrah, many pilgrims return home with clarity, peace, and positive direction in their lives. Muslims learn many spiritual lessons from the Quran and Sunnah during this sacred journey. In this guide, we will explain how to perform Umrah according to the Quran and Sunnah step by step. This article will also be helpful for pilgrims traveling from the UK.
Preparation of Ihram According to the Quran and Sunnah
It is very important to begin Umrah with a pure intention for acceptance and blessings from Allah SWT. Pilgrims make sincere niyyah only for the pleasure of Allah and cleanse their hearts spiritually before starting the journey.
Purification of niyyah is essential in Umrah according to the Quran and Sunnah. Pilgrims should remove grudges, forgive others, and begin the sacred journey with a pure heart. Physical purification also includes taking a bath and cleansing the body properly before entering the state of Ihram.
Men wear two white pieces of cloth known as Rida and Izar. They are not allowed to wear stitched clothing while in Ihram. Women may wear modest Islamic clothing that covers the entire body except the face and hands.
Make Intention for Umrah
For pilgrims flying from the UK, the Miqaat is usually crossed around 20–30 minutes before landing in Saudi Arabia. At this point, pilgrims must make the intention for Umrah by reciting the Talbiyah:
Labbaik Allahuma Labbaik
Translation:
“Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily, all praise, blessings, and dominion are Yours. You have no partner.”
Reciting the Talbiyah is an important Sunnah and reminds Muslims of complete submission to Allah SWT.
Tawaf in Umrah According to the Sunnah
One of the main rituals of Umrah according to the Quran and Sunnah is Tawaf, which means circling around the Kaaba seven times.
Pilgrims begin Tawaf from Hajar al-Aswad (the Black Stone) and also finish at the same point. Muslims walk around the Kaaba seven times in worship and unity. Facing the Black Stone, pilgrims raise their hands and say:
“In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest.”
If possible, pilgrims may kiss or touch the Black Stone. There is no fixed dua for Tawaf, so Muslims can recite Quranic verses, dhikr, or personal duas throughout the Tawaf.
Between the Yemeni Corner and the Black Stone, it is Sunnah to recite:
“Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and save us from the punishment of the Fire.”
Praying at Maqam e Ibrahim
After completing Tawaf, it is Sunnah to perform two rak’ah prayers near Maqam e Ibrahim. If the area is crowded, pilgrims may pray anywhere inside Masjid al Haram.
According to the Sunnah:
- In the first rak’ah, recite Surah Al-Kafirun after Surah Al-Fatiha
- In the second rak’ah, recite Surah Al-Ikhlas after Surah Al-Fatiha
Praying at this place reminds Muslims of the faith and sacrifices of Hazrat Ibrahim AS.
Sai Between Safa and Marwa
Sai is another important ritual in Umrah according to the Quran and Sunnah. Pilgrims walk between the hills of Safa and Marwa in remembrance of Hazrat Hajra AS.
At the beginning of Sai, pilgrims face the Kaaba, raise their hands, and praise Allah.
Recite:
“Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah.”
(Quran 2:158)
Between the two green light markers, men should walk faster or run lightly. Women continue walking normally throughout the Sai. There is no fixed dua for Sai, so pilgrims may continue making personal supplications and remembering Allah.
Halq After Completing Sai
After Sai, men shave their heads completely, while women cut a small portion of hair from the ends. This act is called Halq, and after completing it, the Umrah is finished.
Many pilgrims traveling from the UK choose complete Umrah packages 2026 that include airfare, hotel accommodation, meals, and guidance during the pilgrimage.
Important Sunnah Tips During Umrah
Praying extra nawafil in both sacred mosques is highly rewarding. Pilgrims can increase their rewards by offering voluntary prayers and spending more time in worship.
It is also Sunnah to recite Darood Pak frequently and send salawat upon Prophet Muhammad PBUH. This increases humility and strengthens the spiritual experience during Umrah.
True humbleness and kindness are important parts of Umrah according to the Quran and Sunnah. Whether someone travels in luxury or simplicity, Islam teaches Muslims to remain humble, patient, and respectful toward others before, during, and after Umrah.
Conclusion
For the body and soul, Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey. Muslims often feel spiritually refreshed and closer to Allah after completing Umrah.
For a more rewarding experience, pilgrims should read books of Sunnah, recite the Quran with translation, and carry a dua book during their journey. It is the wish of every Muslim to perform Umrah at least once in life.
After Umrah, believers often feel blessed, humbled, and spiritually connected to Allah SWT. Every step of Umrah reminds Muslims to return to Allah before death and seek His mercy and pleasure. Following Umrah according to the Quran and Sunnah brings peace to the heart and strengthens faith through every act of worship.
If you want to improve your Quran recitation, Tajweed, and Islamic knowledge before your Umrah journey, Quran Teacher Online offers online Quran classes for kids and adults with experienced male and female tutors. Learn Quran reading and Islamic studies from home with flexible timings for students worldwide.
