Umrah
Umrah is a pilgrimage to Mecca that can be performed at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which is limited to a few days in Dhul-Hijjah. It involves fewer rituals than Hajj and isn't obligatory, but remains a highly recommended practice in the prophetic tradition.
What's the difference between Umrah and Hajj?
Hajj is a pillar of Islam, obligatory once in a lifetime for every Muslim able to perform it, and limited to specific dates (8 to 13 Dhul-Hijjah). Umrah, on the other hand, isn't obligatory, can be repeated, and can be performed at any time of year — including during Ramadan, considered especially meritorious for performing it.
The four steps of Umrah
- Ihram — the sacred state: purification, specific garments for men, and intention expressed through the Talbiyah, the formula repeated throughout the journey to Mecca.
- Tawaf — seven circuits around the Kaaba, counter-clockwise, starting from the Black Stone.
- Sa'i — walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, in memory of Hajar's search for water.
- Halq or Taqsir — shaving the head completely or symbolically trimming the hair, marking the end of the state of Ihram and completing Umrah.
When can Umrah be performed?
At any time of the year, with no fixed date. It is simply suspended during the days of Hajj (8 to 13 Dhul-Hijjah), reserved for the greater pilgrimage's rites.
Islamobile brings together the Talbiyah and pilgrim supplications, the full Quran, Qibla direction and prayer times — usable offline once downloaded. Free on iPhone.
Download on theApp StoreFrequently asked questions
Is Umrah obligatory?
No, unlike Hajj. It remains, however, a highly recommended practice, performed at least once by many Muslims.
Can Umrah be performed more than once?
Yes, there's no limit: Umrah can be repeated as often as desired, at any time of year outside the days of Hajj.
What is the Talbiyah?
The formula repeated by the pilgrim from entering the state of Ihram until the start of the Tawaf — it expresses the response to Allah's call.
Can Umrah supplications be accessed offline?
Yes: supplications are available offline right after installing Islamobile. Download Islamobile