Umrah is performed in a clear, beautiful sequence of rites. Your Golden Umrah guide leads you through each one in person — but understanding them beforehand brings calm and confidence, especially for first-time pilgrims from The Gambia. This step-by-step overview explains what you'll do and why, from entering ihram to completing your Umrah.
Before you begin: the state of ihram
Everything starts with ihram — the sacred state you enter before performing Umrah. At the appointed boundary (the miqat), you purify yourself, put on the ihram clothing, and make your intention (niyyah) for Umrah. From this moment you recite the Talbiyah: "Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk…" — "Here I am, O Allah, here I am." While in ihram, certain things are avoided, such as scented products and cutting the hair or nails.
Step 1 — Tawaf: circling the Kaaba
On reaching Masjid al-Haram, you perform Tawaf — circling the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction, beginning and ending at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad). Each circuit is an act of devotion and remembrance, the heart turning to its Lord. There are no fixed supplications required; you may pray in your own words and language throughout.
After completing the seven circuits, it is recommended — where space allows in the crowds — to pray two short units (rak'ahs) near the Station of Ibrahim (Maqam Ibrahim), then to drink from the blessed Zam Zam water.
Step 2 — Sa'i: between Safa and Marwah
Next is Sa'i — walking seven times between the two small hills of Safa and Marwah, now enclosed within the mosque. This rite honours Hajar (peace be upon her), who ran between these hills searching for water for her infant son Ismail, placing her trust completely in Allah — after which the well of Zam Zam sprang forth. Walking the same path connects every pilgrim to that timeless example of patience and reliance on God.
Step 3 — Tahallul: completing the Umrah
Finally comes Tahallul, the trimming or shaving of the hair that completes your Umrah and releases you from the state of ihram. Men may shave the head entirely or trim the hair; women trim a small length — about a fingertip — from the ends. With this, your Umrah is complete, and the restrictions of ihram are lifted.
Throughout each rite, your guide helps with the supplications, the crowds and the practical details — so you can give your heart fully to the worship.
A note on intention and presence
The rites of Umrah are simple in form but profound in meaning. What transforms them is presence of heart — performing each step with sincerity, humility and gratitude. Don't worry about memorising long supplications; Allah understands the prayers of your heart in any language. Arrive prepared, follow your guide, and let the experience move you.
Travel with a guide who knows the way
For a first-time pilgrim, performing the rites amid large crowds can feel overwhelming. That's exactly why every Golden Umrah journey includes an experienced religious guide who walks you through Ihram, Tawaf, Sa'i and Tahallul in person. Before you travel, it also helps to read our packing & ihram guide and sort your visa & documents early — so when you arrive, nothing stands between you and your worship.