Umrah is a spiritual journey that brings you closer to Allah and gives peace to your heart. One of the Most Common questions is: How to perform Umrah For Ladies? It is one of the most beautiful acts of worship that every Muslim woman wishes to perform at least once in her life.
If you are preparing to go for this holy trip, this Umrah guide for women will help you understand how to perform Umrah for ladies step by step, from making your intention to completing your rituals with peace and confidence.
Umrah Performing for women, their Umrah may involve a few additional steps and rules compared to men, particularly regarding Ihram, Mahram requirements, and the Umrah dress code. You will learn how to enter the state of Ihram for women, how to perform the steps of Umrah like Tawaf around the Ka’aba and Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, and how to follow the correct etiquette during your stay in the holy city.
This guide also explains what to do in special cases, such as when menstruation occurs during Umrah or when traveling without a Mahram under specific conditions. You will also find important tips for Umrah safety for women, so you can focus on your prayers and spiritual growth without worry.
The goal of this guide is to provide you with clear and practical guidance so you can perform every ritual correctly. From your Niyyah to the final step of trimming your hair, every part of this journey will remind you of your faith, patience, and devotion. With the right knowledge and preparation, your Umrah will become a peaceful and rewarding experience that stays in your heart forever.
What Is Umrah and Why It’s Special for Ladies
Umrah is a sacred act of worship that you perform to seek Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual peace. It is often called the “minor pilgrimage” because it can be done at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which has fixed dates. Even though it is not mandatory like Hajj, it holds great reward and meaning in Islam. For many Muslim women, performing Umrah is a deeply emotional experience that strengthens faith and brings a sense of closeness to Allah.
To perform Umrah As a woman, your journey of Umrah is both spiritual and personal. You leave behind your daily routine, wear modest clothes, and enter a pure state of intention known as Ihram. This simple act shows your humility and devotion. You perform the same main steps of Umrah as men do, including Tawaf around the Ka’aba and Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, but there are a few special rules made for your comfort, modesty, and safety.
During Umrah, you follow the same pillars of the ritual but with attention to details that apply to women. For example, you wear your regular modest dress instead of the two white sheets men wear. You also maintain full modesty during Tawaf and Sa’i, and handle situations like menstruation with care and respect for the holy place.
Umrah is special for ladies because it gives you a chance to renew your soul in a peaceful and respectful environment. It teaches patience, modesty, and gratitude. Whether you travel with your Mahram or with a group, the journey helps you build a stronger connection with your faith and reminds you of the beauty of obedience and simplicity in Islam.
Preparing for Your Umrah Journey
Before you begin your Umrah journey, it is important to make proper preparation so your trip goes smoothly and peacefully. A little planning before travel, when you’re buying Umrah packages, can help you stay focused on your worship instead of worrying about small details. Understanding the basic travel requirements, health rules, and what to pack will make your experience easier and more comfortable.
Checking visa and passport requirements
The first step is to check your Umrah visa for ladies and passport validity. Make sure your passport has at least six months of validity before applying for the visa. If you are traveling from Pakistan or another country, confirm the latest visa process and documents required by the Saudi authorities. If you plan to travel with an agency, choose one that is authorized and experienced in handling Umrah travel for women.
Health and vaccination rules
Next, take care of your health and vaccination rules. Saudi Arabia usually requires specific vaccinations before you travel, such as meningitis and flu shots. Visit your doctor a few weeks before your trip to make sure you are fit for travel and able to walk long distances during rituals like Tawaf and Sa’i. Keep copies of your medical papers with you for safety.
Booking flights and accommodation
Booking your flights and accommodation should also be done early. Try to choose hotels close to Masjid al-Haram so you can easily reach the Ka’aba for prayers and rituals. If you are traveling with your Mahram, plan your trip together to avoid any last-minute issues. If you are traveling without a Mahram, make sure your group is registered and follows the latest Mahram rules approved for women travelers.
Packing list for women
When preparing your Umrah packing list, focus on comfort and modesty. For Ihram clothes, women do not wear the white sheets like men. You can wear any modest abaya or long dress in a light, breathable fabric. Carry a simple headscarf, comfortable shoes or sandals, and a small bag to keep your prayer essentials, such as a prayer mat, Quran, and Tasbeeh. Avoid bringing perfume, makeup, or jewelry, as these are not allowed in Ihram. Toiletries should be plain and unscented.
Good Travel Agency will make your Umrah easier and more meaningful. With the right documents, a proper health check, a respectful attitude, and the right packing choices, you can focus completely on your worship and spiritual peace during your time in the holy cities.
How to Perform Umrah for Ladies | Ihram for Women – Step 1 of Umrah
Ihram is the state of purity you enter before starting your Umrah rituals. It shows your intention to leave behind worldly things and focus only on worship and obedience to Allah. For women, entering the Ihram is a spiritual act that begins the sacred part of the journey. It involves preparing your body, mind, and heart for complete devotion.
Making Niyyah:
The first step is making your Niyyah for Umrah. Niyyah means intention, and it should come from your heart with sincerity. Before entering the boundary of Miqat, you quietly make the intention for Umrah, saying that you are performing it only for Allah’s pleasure. This intention turns your normal travel into an act of worship.
Perform Ghusl:
Next, you perform Ghusl, which is a full ritual bath done to cleanse your body. It is recommended before putting on your Ihram clothing. Through Ghusl, you prepare yourself for purity before Umrah, both physically and spiritually. After Ghusl, you can also pray two Rak’ah as a way of seeking blessings for your journey.
Dressing For Umrah:
When dressing for Ihram, women do not wear the two white sheets like men. You wear your normal modest clothing that covers your body properly. A loose abaya or long dress with a headscarf is suitable. The color can be any soft shade, as long as it is plain and not attractive. Make sure your clothing is clean and comfortable for walking and praying. Ihram clothing for women should not include gloves or face covers, though you may cover your face lightly if needed for privacy when men are nearby.
Avoid Perfume And Cosmetics:
Avoid using perfume or scented products at this stage. This includes perfume, deodorant, soap, or lotion with fragrance. Ihram is a state of simplicity and humility, so you must stay away from all luxury or decoration. Cosmetics, nail polish, and jewelry should also be removed before entering the Ihram.
Reciting the Talbiyah
Once you are ready, recite the Talbiyah with a humble heart: “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayk la sharika laka Labbayk, Innal hamda wan-ni‘mata laka wal mulk, la sharika lak.” This recitation means, “Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am. You have no partner. Here I am. Surely all praise, blessings, and kingdom belong to You, You have no partner.” The Talbiyah marks your full entry into the state of Ihram. From this moment, you are in a sacred state and must follow all Ihram rules until your Umrah is complete.
By making your Niyyah, performing Ghusl, wearing modest Ihram clothes, avoiding perfume, and reciting the Talbiyah, you prepare yourself for a pure and spiritual experience that brings you closer to Allah.
Tawaf Around the Ka’aba – Step 2 of Umrah
Tawaf is one of the most important steps of Umrah, and it involves circling the Ka’aba seven times in a specific manner. As a woman, performing Tawaf requires care, focus, and respect for both the ritual and your modesty. When you perform Tawaf, you are showing your devotion and seeking closeness to Allah through each circle around the Ka’aba.
Starting from the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad)
You begin your Tawaf from the Black Stone, or Hajar al-Aswad, which is located in one corner of the Ka’aba. While touching or kissing the Black Stone is recommended if possible, it is not required. You can simply raise your hand in its direction while reciting prayers. This marks the official start of your first round.
Keeping modesty and avoiding crowding
During Tawaf, it is important to maintain modesty and avoid crowding. Women often stay on the inner or outer lanes according to their comfort, keeping a respectful distance from men and other pilgrims. Focus on your own worship instead of worrying about the crowd around you. This ensures that you maintain both safety and spiritual calm.
Maintaining calm and focus during prayer
As you move around the Ka’aba, maintain calm and focus during prayer. You can recite any supplications, verses from the Quran, or personal prayers silently. This is your private moment of connection with Allah, so try to concentrate fully on your worship and let the spiritual energy of the holy mosque surround you.
Completing two Rak’ah near Maqam Ibrahim
After completing seven full circles, you should perform two Rak’ah of prayer near Maqam Ibrahim if possible. This small area beside the Ka’aba is highly recommended for prayer after Tawaf, as it allows you to express gratitude and complete the ritual properly.
Once you finish Tawaf and the prayer, you may drink Zamzam water, which is available nearby. Drinking Zamzam water is considered highly blessed and refreshing, both physically and spiritually. By following the Tawaf rules for women carefully and performing each step with focus and respect, you complete this sacred part of your Umrah journey with devotion and peace.
Sa’i Between Safa and Marwah – Step 3 of Umrah
Sa’i is the next essential step of Umrah, where you walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah. This ritual commemorates Hajar’s search for water for her son, Ishmael, and it allows you to reflect on patience, trust, and reliance on Allah. As a woman, performing Sa’i requires calm, focus, and attention to modesty while completing the seven trips between these two sacred points.
Begin at Safa, end at Marwah
You begin your Sa’i at Safa, facing the Ka’aba and offering prayers silently in your heart. From there, you walk toward Marwah, keeping your movements respectful and calm. Women are not required to run in the green light area like men do; you walk normally, maintaining dignity and focus on your worship. Walking allows you to reflect, recite Dua, and feel the spiritual connection of this ritual.
Stay within the green light area
It is important to stay within the marked green light area during Sa’i. These areas guide the flow of pilgrims and ensure your safety while performing the ritual. Following these markings helps you avoid crowding and keeps your focus on the worship rather than the movement of the crowd.
Women walk normally, not run
As you complete each trip, you continue from one hill to the other until you finish the seventh and final journey at Marwah. Throughout the process, you can recite prayers, personal supplications, or verses from the Quran quietly. This is your private moment to ask Allah for blessings, forgiveness, and guidance.
End with Dua and gratitude
When your Sa’i is complete, end with Dua and gratitude. Take a moment to reflect on your spiritual journey, the effort of Hajar, and the blessings of being able to perform this sacred act. Completing Sa’i with sincerity and attention to the Sa’i steps for women ensures that you fulfill this part of Umrah correctly while deepening your faith and spiritual connection.
Trimming Hair – Step 4 of Umrah
The final step of how to perform Umrah for Ladies is simple but highly significant, as it marks the completion of all rituals. After finishing Tawaf and Sa’i, you need to perform Taqsir, which means trimming a small part of your hair. For women, this usually involves cutting just about a fingertip length from each side of your hair. This act symbolizes humility, renewal, and the completion of your sacred journey.
Doing it in a private or safe area
It is important to do this step in a private or safe area. Women are advised to find a quiet place where they feel comfortable and secure while cutting their hair. This ensures that you maintain modesty and dignity during the ritual. Many women choose hotel bathrooms, designated areas in the holy city, or private facilities provided by their travel group.
This completes Umrah
Once you complete the hair trimming, your Umrah is officially finished. This small act may seem simple, but it holds great spiritual meaning. It signifies the end of your ritual purification and the fulfillment of your worship, leaving you spiritually refreshed and closer to Allah. At this point, you can reflect on your journey, feel grateful for the opportunity, and continue your prayers with a heart full of devotion and peace.
By carefully following this step along with the rest of the Umrah rituals, you complete your spiritual journey correctly, fulfilling all the required acts and experiencing the full blessing and reward of Umrah.
Rules and Guidelines for Ladies Performing Umrah
During Umrah, there are several important do’s and don’ts that help you perform your rituals correctly while maintaining modesty, safety, and spiritual focus. As a woman, following these rules ensures that your journey is smooth, respectful, and fully rewarded.
Dress modestly and cover your hair
First, dress modestly and cover your hair at all times. Your clothing should be loose and plain, allowing you to move comfortably while maintaining proper modesty. An abaya or long dress with a headscarf is ideal. This helps you stay respectful in the holy areas and protects your focus on worship rather than appearance.
Avoid perfume and makeup
Avoid using perfume, makeup, or any scented products during Umrah. This rule applies especially when you are in Ihram. Cosmetics, jewelry, and strong fragrances are considered distractions and are not allowed in the state of purity. By keeping things simple, you maintain humility and the sacredness of your rituals.
Stay with your group or Mahram for safety
Always stay with your group or Mahram for safety. Traveling in a group or with a trusted male guardian ensures your protection and helps you navigate the busy areas around Masjid al-Haram. If you are traveling without a Mahram, make sure you are part of a registered women-only group and follow the local travel rules.
What to do if menstruation starts during Umrah
If your menstruation starts during Umrah, do not worry. You can pause certain acts, such as Tawaf and Sa’i, until your period ends, or perform modifications allowed for women in this situation. Maintaining cleanliness and performing other acts of worship, such as prayer outside of the Tawaf or Sa’i, is still possible. Always follow guidance from knowledgeable authorities to ensure your rituals remain valid.
How to maintain purity and respect in the holy areas
Finally, maintain purity and respect in all holy areas. Avoid loud behavior, unnecessary talking, or crowding others. Keep your Ihram clean, move calmly, and focus on prayer and reflection. Respecting these guidelines helps you experience Umrah fully, deepens your spiritual connection, and ensures that your journey is peaceful, safe, and rewarding.
Safety and Comfort Tips for Women Travelers
During your Umrah journey, practical preparation for comfort and security is just as important as performing the rituals correctly. Taking a few simple steps can help you focus on worship while staying safe, healthy, and relaxed.
Stay hydrated and avoid heat
First, stay hydrated and avoid heat. The holy cities can be very warm, and you may spend long hours walking during Tawaf and Sa’i. Carry a small water bottle and drink regularly to prevent dehydration. Use lightweight, breathable clothing under your abaya to stay comfortable, and try to rest in shaded areas whenever possible.
Keep a copy of the documents
Keep a copy of all important documents, including your passport, visa, and travel insurance. Store these copies separately from the originals, so you are prepared in case anything gets lost. This simple step can save you stress and allow you to focus fully on your Umrah.
Travel with trusted groups
Travel with trusted groups or with a Mahram if required. Being part of an organized group helps you navigate busy areas safely and ensures support during the journey. Traveling with people you trust also makes your experience more comfortable and less stressful, especially when moving between rituals and holy sites.
Follow local Saudi rules
Follow all local Saudi rules during your stay. This includes respecting gender-specific areas, maintaining order in crowded spaces, and obeying any instructions from authorities or guides. Being aware of these rules protects your safety and helps you avoid unnecessary issues during your trip.
Keep your Ihram clean and simple
Keep your Ihram clean and simple at all times. Avoid scented products, jewelry, or complicated clothing layers. A simple and clean Ihram not only follows the religious rules but also keeps you comfortable as you move, pray, and perform rituals throughout the day.
By staying hydrated, keeping your documents safe, traveling with trusted people, following local rules, and maintaining a simple Ihram, you can make your Umrah journey comfortable, secure, and fully focused on your spiritual experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can women perform Umrah without a Mahram?
Generally, women are required to travel with a Mahram for safety and to comply with traditional rules. However, some groups and travel agencies now provide women-only packages that allow women to perform Umrah in an organized group without a Mahram. If you plan to travel without a Mahram, make sure your group is registered and recognized by Saudi authorities, and follow all guidelines provided for safe travel.
What should women wear during Umrah?
Women should wear modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers the body completely. A simple abaya or long dress with a headscarf is recommended. During Ihram, avoid wearing perfume, makeup, or jewelry. Your clothing should be plain, comfortable, and suitable for walking and performing rituals like Tawaf and Sa’i. Breathable fabrics help you stay cool in the heat while maintaining modesty.
Can women perform Umrah while on their period?
If your menstruation starts during Umrah, you can pause certain acts such as Tawaf and Sa’i until your period ends. You may still perform other prayers and make Dua during this time. Islamic scholars provide clear guidance for women in this situation, so you can continue your pilgrimage while maintaining both physical and spiritual purity.
How should women perform Tawaf safely during crowded times?
Tawaf can be crowded, so safety is important. Stay in lanes where women are allowed, avoid pushing or crowding, and move at a steady, calm pace. Focus on your own worship and recitations rather than worrying about the crowd around you. Traveling with a group or Mahram can also help you navigate safely and avoid stress during peak times.
Is perfume allowed in the Ihram for women?
No, perfume is not allowed once you enter Ihram. This includes scented lotions, deodorants, and body sprays. Ihram is a state of simplicity, humility, and spiritual purity, so all fragrances should be avoided until your Umrah is complete. After finishing your rituals, you can return to your usual personal care products.
Conclusion
Completing your Umrah is not just about performing rituals; it is also a moment to reflect on the values of purity, patience, and gratitude. As you finish your journey, remember that every step you took—from making your Niyyah and entering Ihram to performing Tawaf, Sa’i, and trimming your hair—was an act of devotion and humility. Carry this sense of spiritual cleanliness and calmness back into your daily life, allowing the lessons of patience and faith to guide you.
Take a moment to make Dua not only for yourself but also for your family, friends, and the entire Muslim community. Asking Allah for health, guidance, and blessings for others strengthens your own heart and reminds you that worship is also about compassion and care for humanity.
Before you plan your next Umrah or any pilgrimage, confirm the latest travel rules and guidelines, including visa requirements, health protocols, and Mahram regulations. Being informed ensures that your journey is safe, smooth, and in full compliance with local rules.
Now that you know how to perform Umrah for ladies step by step, you can begin your spiritual journey with full confidence and peace of heart. By following these steps carefully, staying mindful of the rules for women, and embracing the spiritual lessons along the way, your Umrah experience can become a deeply rewarding and transformative chapter of your faith.
