Performing Umrah, the minor pilgrimage in Islam, involves several specific rituals. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the rules and essential practices of Umrah:
1. Intention and Entering the State of Ihram

• Ihram: Before entering the sacred boundaries of Mecca, pilgrims must enter a state of spiritual purity called Ihram. Men wear two white, seamless garments, while women wear modest, loose-fitting clothing (usually white or light colors), covering everything except their faces and hands.
• Niyyah (Intention): Make the intention in your heart to perform Umrah for the sake of Allah. This intention should be sincere and dedicated solely to Allah.
• Talbiyah: Recite the Talbiyah, a declaration of devotion:
  “Labbayk Allahumma labbayk. Labbayka la shareeka laka labbayk. Innal-hamda wanni’mata laka wal-mulk, la shareeka lak”
  (Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily, all praise, grace, and sovereignty belong to You; You have no partner).
• Ihram Restrictions: While in Ihram, pilgrims must avoid certain actions, including:
  • Cutting hair or nails
  • Wearing perfume or scented products
  • Engaging in intimate relations
  • Hunting or harming animals
  • Engaging in arguments or quarrels

2. Entering Masjid al-Haram and Performing Tawaf

• Upon entering Masjid al-Haram, focus on humility and devotion. When you see the Kaaba, lower your gaze initially as an act of reverence, and then offer dua upon seeing it.
• Tawaf (Circumambulation): Perform seven counterclockwise circuits around the Kaaba, starting at the Black Stone (Al-Hajar al-Aswad). Each time you pass the Black Stone, you may either raise your hand in its direction or, if possible, gently touch or kiss it.
• Duas During Tawaf: Recite prayers and duas during each circuit. There are no prescribed supplications, so pilgrims can make personal prayers and seek forgiveness, mercy, and guidance.

3. Performing Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwah)

• After completing Tawaf, pray two units of prayer (Rak’ahs) at Maqam Ibrahim or wherever you can within the mosque.
• Next, move to the area between the hills of Safa and Marwah and perform Sa’i, which commemorates Hajar’s search for water for her son Isma’il. Walk back and forth seven times between Safa and Marwah, beginning at Safa and ending at Marwah.
• Duas During Sa’i: Similar to Tawaf, there are no prescribed prayers for each round. You can recite personal prayers, ask for Allah’s mercy, and make supplications during Sa’i.

4. Cutting or Shaving the Hair

• After completing Sa’i, men should either shave their heads or trim their hair as an act of humility and submission to Allah. Women trim a small portion of their hair (about a fingertip’s length).
• Once this act is done, the pilgrim exits the state of Ihram, and the Umrah is complete.

Additional Tips and Considerations

• Stay Hydrated and Rested: Performing Umrah can be physically demanding, so staying hydrated and taking breaks if needed is essential.
• Focus on Repentance and Reflection: Umrah is a time for introspection, spiritual growth, and purification. Spend time in prayer, recitation of the Qur’an, and dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
• Patience and Respect: The mosque is often very crowded, especially around the Kaaba. Patience, respect for others, and a calm demeanor are crucial.

Performing Umrah with sincerity and devotion helps purify sins, renew faith, and bring the pilgrim closer to Allah.