How to perform Umrah for Women: A complete guide

Understanding the basics of Umrah for women

Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, which can be performed at any time of the year. While it is less physically demanding than Hajj, it still requires spiritual and mental preparation. For women, it’s essential to be aware of specific rules that apply to them, which differ from men. Here we highlight how to perform Umrah for females step-by-step. If you are a female and planning to perform Umrah, go through this blog carefully.

How to perform Umrah as a Woman | Step-by-step Umrah guide

Hijaz Hajj & Umrah Limited offers a comprehensive and easy training program in Dhaka. You will be well prepared for this journey. Join us to gain essential knowledge and guidance. Explore our step-by-step guidelines on how to perform Umrah for females.

Step 1: Preparing for Ihram

• Make Niyyah: Before preparing for Ihram, you must make a sincere intention to perform Umrah for the sake of Allah.
• Ghusl (Bath): You should take a full bath or wudu (ablution) after niyyah.
• Ihram Clothing: Men must wear specific ihram outfits, but don't worry—women do not have any specific outfits. You can wear any modest, loose-fitting outfit, preferably white, that covers your entire body except the face and hands.
• No perfume & make-ups: You must not use any scented items, including perfumes, deodorants, and lotions.
• Pray Two Rakat Salah: If possible, you can pray two rakats of salah before entering Ihram.
• Recite Talbiyah: Once you enter Ihram, begin reciting the Talbiyah: Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayk La Shareeka Laka Labbayk, Innal-Hamda Wainnamata Laka Wal-Mulk, Laa Shareeka Lak.

Step 2: Performing Tawaf

• Tawaf: Walk seven times anti-clockwise around the Kaaba. As a woman, you must maintain a modest distance from men to avoid unnecessary physical contact.
• Duas: There are no fixed duas for tawaf, but you should recite the Talbiyah while doing tawaf.

Step 3: Sai (walking) between Safa and Marwa

• Safa to Marwa: Start walking from Safa to Marwa between the hills seven times.
• Women do it slowly: Men have to do it quickly. Don't worry, just walk at your normal pace.
• Recite dua: At each hill, face the Kaaba and recite, “inn-as-Safa wal-Marwa min sha’aairillah……” (Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah.)

Step 4: Perform Halq (Shaving) or Taqsir (Trimming Hair)

You don't have to shave your hair; men have to do that. You only have to trim a small portion of your hair, about an inch or fingertip length, from all sides. Alhamdulillah, after this your Umrah will be completed and your Ihram will be lifted.

Final Steps: After Completing Umrah

• Spend Time in Al-Haram: You can spend some time in Al-Haram and do some nafilah Salah.
• Visit Masjid e Nabawi: It is not part of Umrah. But it is highly recommended to visit Madinah and send salaams to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Things to Keep in Mind During Umrah

For women, certain aspects of Umrah require careful attention to religious guidelines:

• Maintaining modesty: Modesty is key during Umrah. Women should wear clothing that is not tight or revealing, keeping in line with Islamic principles.
• Menstruation: Women in their menstrual cycle cannot perform Tawaf, Sa’i, or Salah in the mosque. However, they can still recite Duas and Dhikr during their period.
• Health precautions: Umrah can be physically demanding, so it’s essential to stay hydrated and avoid overexertion. If you’re traveling with a group, always inform someone if you need rest.

Umrah preparation for women

Preparation is crucial for a successful pilgrimage. Here are some tips:

• Documentation: Ensure your passport and visa are ready. Women must travel with a Mahram (male guardian) unless they meet certain conditions.
• Packing: Essential items include comfortable shoes, modest clothing, personal hygiene products, and prayer essentials.
• Health check: Consult your doctor, especially for vaccinations and any necessary medications.

Travel and Accommodation Tips

Choosing the right travel package is crucial for a comfortable Umrah experience. Hijaz Umrah Kafela offers women-friendly packages that ensure safety and comfort throughout the journey.

• Group travel: Women who do not have a Mahram can choose to travel with organized groups. This ensures their safety and comfort, as they are guided by professionals throughout the pilgrimage.
• Accommodation: It’s important to choose accommodations close to the mosque, especially for women, so they can easily access prayer areas and avoid long walks late at night.