Umrah 2026 is expected to be one of the busiest years for pilgrims travelling to Makkah. If you are preparing for Umrah for the first time, this clear and simple step-by-step guide will help you understand every stage. From preparation and Ihram to Tawaf, Sa’i, and visiting Madinah, this guide will support you throughout your journey.
For more helpful information, visit:
➡️ Hajj & Umrah Resources
What Is Umrah?
Umrah is a pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at any time of the year. It includes four main actions:
- Entering the state of Ihram
- Performing Tawaf
- Performing Sa’i
- Cutting or shaving the hair
Although it is shorter than Hajj, Umrah carries deep spiritual reward and offers a chance to renew your heart and faith.
Learn more about Makkah here:
➡️ About Makkah
Preparing for Umrah 2026
Good preparation is essential for a smooth journey. Umrah 2026 will bring larger crowds, so planning early will help avoid stress.
1. Documentation for Umrah 2026
Make sure you have:
- A valid passport (minimum 6 months)
- An Umrah visa or eVisa
- Confirmed flights
- Hotel bookings in Makkah and Madinah
- Local transport arranged
For official visa guidance, visit:
➡️ https://www.nusuk.sa (Outbound link)
2. Spiritual Preparation
Before travelling:
- Learn the rites of Umrah
- Make sincere niyyah (intention)
- Increase dhikr, Qur’an recitation, and dua
- Seek forgiveness from others
- Perform Ghusl before travelling
3. Packing Essentials
Pack:
- Ihram clothing
- Modest clothing for women
- Comfortable slippers
- Non-fragranced toiletries
- Prayer mat, Qur’an, dua book
- Travel pouch
- Portable charger
Step-by-Step Umrah 2026 Guide
This section explains each ritual in a simple, easy-to-follow way.
1. Entering Ihram
Ihram is the sacred state you enter before performing Umrah.
Where to Enter Ihram for Umrah 2026
- From Madinah: Miqat is Dhu’l-Hulayfah (Abyar Ali)
- On flights: Airlines announce before reaching Miqat
- On trains: You may enter Ihram before boarding
More about visiting Madinah:
➡️ About Madinah
Salah al-Ihram
Before entering Ihram:
- Pray two rak’ahs (optional but recommended)
- Recommended Surahs:
- 1st: Surah al-Kafirun
- 2nd: Surah al-Ikhlas
- Make dua for ease and acceptance
Making the Intention (Niyyah)
Make your intention at the Miqat:
لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ عُمْرَةً
“O Allah, I am here to perform Umrah.”
Say the intention softly.
Talbiyah
After niyyah, begin reciting:
“Labbayka Allahumma labbayk…”
Keep reciting until you begin Tawaf.
2. Entering Makkah
As you approach Makkah during Umrah 2026, stay calm, humble, and focused.
Dua for Entering the Haram
اللَّهُمَّ هَذَا حَرَمُكَ وَأَمْنُكَ…
“O Allah, this is Your sanctuary. Protect me from the Fire.”
3. Tawaf (Circling the Kaaba)
Beginning Tawaf
- Enter with your right foot
- Men uncover the right shoulder (Idtiba’)
- Start at the Black Stone
How to Perform Tawaf
- Walk seven rounds counter-clockwise
- Raise your hand toward the Black Stone
- Make personal duas
After Tawaf, men cover their shoulders again.
4. Pray Two Rak’ahs
After completing Tawaf, pray two rak’ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim if possible. Otherwise, pray anywhere in the Haram.
5. Sa’i (Safa and Marwah)
Walk between Safa and Marwah seven times.
Before Starting Sa’i
Recite:
“Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah…” (2:158)
Sa’i Instructions
- Start at Safa
- End at Marwah
- Men walk briskly between the green lights
During Umrah 2026, Sa’i may be busy, so take your time and stay safe.
6. Halq or Taqsir (Haircut)
This is the final step of Umrah.
- Men: Shaving (Halq) is best; trimming allowed
- Women: Trim fingertip length
After this, Umrah is complete.
Visiting Madinah (Optional but Highly Recommended)
Though not part of Umrah, visiting Madinah is a great blessing.
You may:
- Visit Masjid an-Nabawi
- Send salam to the Prophet ﷺ
- Visit Rawdah (if booked through Nusuk)
Learn more here:
➡️ About Madinah
Final Tips for a Meaningful Umrah 2026
- Stay patient and calm
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid arguments
- Use every moment for worship
- Follow group guidance if travelling in a group
Conclusion
Umrah 2026 will be a blessed and memorable journey. With clear preparation and the right understanding, your Umrah can be smooth, spiritual, and deeply rewarding. May Allah accept your Umrah and return you with a heart full of peace and light.