Performing Umrah is a beautiful spiritual journey. Here is a step-by-step guide for pilgrims:
1. Ihram
Before reaching the Miqat boundary, pilgrims must enter the state of Ihram. For men, this involves wrapping two clean white seamless cloths. For women, standard modest Islamic attire is worn. You make your intention (Niyyah) and begin reciting the Talbiyah.
2. Tawaf
Upon arriving in Al-Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah, enter with your right foot first and proceed to perform Tawaf. You circumambulate the Holy Kaaba seven times counter-clockwise, starting from the Hajar Al-Aswad (Black Stone).
3. Sa'ee
After Tawaf, you perform Sa'ee by walking seven times between the small hills of Safa and Marwa, commemorating Hagar's search for water for her infant son Ishmael.
4. Halq or Taqsir
To exit the state of Ihram, men shave their heads (Halq) or cut their hair short (Taqsir). Women cut a lock of hair equal to a fingertip. Congratulations! Your Umrah is now complete.