How to Perform Umrah for Ladies
Women perform the same main Umrah rituals as men: entering Ihram, performing Tawaf around the Kaaba, completing Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, and cutting the hair to complete Umrah. However, there are some important differences for women, particularly regarding Ihram clothing, movement during Tawaf and Sa’i, hair cutting, menstruation and certain travel considerations.
For a woman travelling from the UK, the easiest way to approach Umrah is to prepare before leaving home, understand what to do at the Miqat, and then complete each ritual in the correct order.
This guide explains how women perform Umrah step by step, what to wear, what to avoid during Ihram, what happens if a period begins, how much hair to cut and practical tips for a comfortable journey. Our general step-by-step Umrah guide covers the same rituals from a broader perspective if you’d like a side-by-side reference.
Religious note: Some Islamic rulings can differ between scholars and schools of thought, particularly concerning travelling without a Mahram and certain matters relating to menstruation. This guide focuses on practical Umrah guidance. For a personal religious ruling, speak to a qualified scholar you trust.
The Steps of Umrah for Women
The basic sequence is:
Ihram and intention → Tawaf → two Rak’ahs → Zamzam → Sa’i → cut the hair
Understanding this order before travelling can make the experience much less stressful.
1. Prepare for Ihram
Before reaching the Miqat, make sure you have completed your preparations.
Women do not have a special two-piece Ihram outfit like men. You can wear normal modest clothing that meets Islamic requirements.
It is sensible to shower before Ihram, wear clean and comfortable clothing, and prepare everything you may need before the journey continues towards Makkah.
If you are travelling by air from the UK, don’t assume you can wait until landing in Jeddah to enter Ihram. Your flight route will pass the Miqat before reaching Makkah, so you should be prepared before that point.
2. Make Your Intention for Umrah
At or before the Miqat, make your intention for Umrah and begin reciting the Talbiyah.
You remain in Ihram from this point and follow the restrictions that apply until your Umrah is completed.
If you are travelling as part of a group, your guide may tell you when the flight is approaching the Miqat.
3. Perform Tawaf
When you reach Masjid al-Haram, Tawaf is performed around the Kaaba.
You complete seven circuits, keeping the Kaaba on your left.
Women should walk naturally and do not need to run during Tawaf. Because the Haram can become very crowded, stay calm and avoid pushing or trying to reach the Kaaba at all costs.
Follow the established route and keep your attention on the worship rather than worrying about maintaining a particular walking speed.
4. Pray After Tawaf
After completing seven circuits, pray two Rak’ahs if you are able to do so.
The exact location can depend on the crowd and available space. You do not need to put yourself in an unsafe or extremely crowded position.
Afterwards, Zamzam water is available in the Haram.
5. Perform Sa’i
Sa’i takes place between Safa and Marwah.
Women complete seven trips between the two points, beginning at Safa and finishing at Marwah.
Women walk normally throughout Sa’i. Unlike men, women do not run between the green markers.
If you become tired, take a break where appropriate and use available assistance if required.
6. Cut Your Hair
After completing Sa’i, a woman cuts a small amount from the ends of her hair.
This is known as Taqsir and completes the Umrah.
After this, the restrictions of Ihram end.
What Do Women Wear for Ihram?
One of the biggest differences between men and women is that women do not have a prescribed Ihram uniform.
A woman can wear modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers her body appropriately.
An abaya is therefore generally suitable, provided it meets the requirements of modest dress.
Can Women Wear an Abaya During Ihram?
Yes, women can wear an abaya during Ihram. There is no requirement for a woman to wear white clothing or a particular colour.
Comfort is important because Umrah involves walking and standing for extended periods.
Choose lightweight clothing that allows you to move comfortably, especially when travelling during warmer weather.
Can Women Wear Shoes During Umrah?
Women can wear suitable footwear. Our dedicated answer on wearing shoes during Tawaf covers this in more detail if you want the full rule.
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are particularly useful because you may walk considerably more than expected between your hotel, the Haram and other locations.
Avoid choosing footwear simply because it looks good. A comfortable pair that you have already worn is usually a better choice.
Can Women Cover Their Hair?
Yes. A woman should observe her normal requirements for modest dress, including covering her hair.
The rules concerning covering the face during Ihram are a separate matter, so women should follow the guidance of a qualified scholar regarding their particular circumstances.
What About Makeup and Skincare?
This is an area where women often have questions.
Rather than assuming that every cosmetic or skincare product has exactly the same ruling, check whether the product contains fragrance and ask a qualified scholar if you are unsure about a particular item.
You can prepare a small toiletry bag containing the products you know are suitable for your Ihram period.
What Should Women Avoid During Ihram?
Once you have entered Ihram, you need to observe its restrictions until your Umrah is completed.
In particular, be careful with perfume and fragrances, cutting hair, cutting nails, deliberately removing hair, certain scented personal-care products, and other actions prohibited while in Ihram.
It is a good idea to prepare your toiletries before leaving the UK. If you normally use perfume, scented moisturiser, fragranced deodorant or other scented products, check the ingredients and choose suitable alternatives for use during Ihram.
How Women Perform Tawaf
Tawaf can feel overwhelming for a first-time pilgrim because of the crowds, but understanding the basic process beforehand makes it easier.
Before Tawaf make sure you are properly prepared and that you have what you need. Keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying unnecessary items.
During Tawaf you complete seven circuits around the Kaaba, keeping the Kaaba to your left and following the flow of people. Women do not need to perform the faster walking associated with certain practices for men, and you also do not need to push through crowds to touch the Black Stone. Your safety and the safety of other pilgrims should come first.
What if I get tired? Umrah does not require you to rush. If you are travelling with an elderly family member, have mobility difficulties or simply become exhausted, plan your movements around your ability. A nearby hotel can make a significant difference because walking long distances several times a day can quickly become tiring.
How Women Perform Sa’i
After Tawaf and the prayer afterwards, you proceed to Sa’i.
Sa’i consists of seven trips between Safa and Marwah: Safa to Marwah (1), Marwah to Safa (2), Safa to Marwah (3), Marwah to Safa (4), Safa to Marwah (5), Marwah to Safa (6), Safa to Marwah (7). You finish at Marwah.
Women walk normally during Sa’i and do not run between the green markers.
If you are travelling with elderly relatives, children or anyone who struggles with walking, allow extra time rather than trying to complete the journey quickly.
How Much Hair Should a Woman Cut After Umrah?
After completing Sa’i, a woman trims a small amount from her hair to complete Umrah.
Women do not shave their heads as part of the normal completion of Umrah.
It is practical to carry a small pair of scissors that is appropriate for travel and use them only when permitted and safe to do so.
If you are unsure about exactly how much to cut, ask a qualified scholar or your Umrah guide before completing this step.
Once the hair has been cut, your Umrah is complete and the restrictions of Ihram end.
Can Women Perform Umrah During Their Period?
Yes, a woman can enter the state of Ihram and make her intention for Umrah while menstruating. However, menstruation affects what she can do at particular stages of the pilgrimage.
The most important point is that Tawaf should not be performed while menstruating.
If your period begins before Tawaf, you should remain in Ihram and wait until you are purified before performing Tawaf.
This can be stressful when you have a fixed flight or hotel booking, so women who are concerned about their cycle should plan ahead and speak to a qualified scholar about their circumstances before travelling.
If your period starts at another stage of the journey, the ruling can depend on exactly what you have already completed. This is one situation where personalised religious guidance is much better than relying on a general internet answer.
Can Women Perform Umrah Without a Mahram?
This question needs to be considered from two different perspectives. Our dedicated answer on performing Umrah without a Mahram covers both sides of this in more depth.
Saudi travel requirements Saudi travel and visa rules are a matter of government policy and can change. For example, the current official Saudi eVisa portal states that eligible travelers, including UK passport holders, can use the tourist eVisa for Umrah, although it does not permit Hajj. The current terms also require an eligible passport with at least six months’ validity at the time of entry.
Islamic ruling whether a woman may travel without a Mahram is a separate religious question. Scholars have differing views depending on circumstances, school of thought and the conditions of travel.
Therefore, don’t treat a Saudi visa rule as automatically answering the Islamic question.
If you are planning to travel alone, speak with a qualified scholar you trust and also check the latest Saudi entry requirements before booking.
Women who prefer additional support may also choose an organised group Umrah package.
Umrah Travel Preparation for Women from the UK
If you are travelling from the UK, prepare your documents and essentials before your departure.
Check your passport validity, visa or other valid entry permission, flight details, hotel booking, travel insurance, emergency contact information, medication and prescriptions where applicable, currency/payment arrangements, mobile phone and charger, and accommodation address. Our full list of what documents you need for Umrah covers this in more detail.
The official Saudi eVisa terms currently state that a passport must have at least six months remaining from the date of entry, and the traveller should carry a copy of the eVisa when arriving in Saudi Arabia.
Visa and entry requirements can change, so check the current official information close to your travel date.
For Umrah services and packages, the official Nusuk Umrah platform currently provides packages through authorised service providers, including options covering accommodation, transportation, flights and other services.
Women’s Umrah Packing Checklist
A simple packing list can prevent unnecessary stress. Our general Umrah packing guide is a useful companion to the women-specific list below.
Clothing comfortable abayas, hijabs, undergarments, socks, comfortable sleepwear, comfortable walking shoes, a lightweight outer layer.
Personal items unscented toiletries suitable for Ihram, sanitary products, sunscreen, tissues, small personal bag, water bottle where permitted, phone charger/power bank.
Documents keep important documents easily accessible: passport, visa, flight details, hotel information, travel insurance, emergency contacts.
It is also useful to keep digital copies of important documents on your phone and share your accommodation details with someone you trust.
Practical Umrah Tips for Women
A few simple decisions can make the journey much easier.
Choose a convenient hotel a hotel close to the Haram can reduce the amount of walking required each day. This becomes particularly important for elderly women or anyone travelling with children.
Carry only what you need a small bag is easier to manage in crowded areas than a large handbag. Keep your phone, essential documents and other important items secure.
Keep your phone charged save your hotel name, address and contact details on your phone. If you become separated from your family or group, having the hotel information available can be extremely helpful.
Drink enough water the Saudi climate can be very different from the UK. Drink regularly and take breaks when necessary, especially after long periods of walking.
Don’t rush the rituals Umrah is not a race. Allow yourself enough time to move safely, rest when needed and focus on your worship.
Is a Group Umrah Package Suitable for Women Travelling Alone?
For some women, particularly first-time pilgrims, a group package can make the journey easier. A well organized package may include flights, hotels, airport transfers, transport between Makkah and Madinah, visa assistance, and group guidance our guide on what’s included in cheap Umrah packages breaks this down further.
The main benefit is that you don’t have to organise every part of the journey yourself.
However, the right option depends on your budget, travel preferences, family arrangements and level of independence.
If you prefer additional support while travelling from the UK, you can explore the Umrah packages available through Hajj Umrah Travels and compare the arrangements before making a decision, or read our guide on choosing a trusted Umrah travel agency first.
Common Mistakes Women Should Avoid During Umrah
Avoiding a few common mistakes can make your experience much smoother.
- Waiting until the last moment to prepare for Ihram prepare your clothing, toiletries and other essentials before reaching the Miqat.
- Choosing uncomfortable shoes you may walk considerably more than you expect. Prioritize comfort.
- Carrying too many belongings large bags can become difficult to manage in crowded areas.
- Forgetting the hotel location save the address and contact information before leaving the hotel.
- Trying to force your way through crowds there is no need to push people to reach particular places.
- Ignoring your need for rest fatigue can make the experience much harder. Take reasonable breaks.
- Assuming every religious question has one simple answer matters such as menstruation and travelling without a Mahram can involve differences of scholarly opinion. Ask a qualified scholar when the issue affects your personal circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can women wear their everyday abaya during Ihram?
Yes. Women do not have to wear a special two-piece Ihram garment. A modest abaya or other suitable clothing can be worn.
Can women wear shoes during Umrah?
Yes. Women can wear suitable footwear. Comfortable walking shoes are usually a practical choice.
Do women have to wear white for Umrah?
No. There is no requirement for women to wear white. Modest clothing in any suitable colour can be worn.
Do women run during Sa’i?
No. Women normally walk throughout Sa’i and do not run between the green markers.
Do women perform Raml during Tawaf?
Women do not perform the faster walking associated with Raml for men. They walk naturally and focus on completing their Tawaf safely.
Can a woman perform Umrah alone?
Saudi travel rules and Islamic rulings are separate issues. Check the current Saudi requirements and consult a qualified scholar regarding the religious ruling applicable to your circumstances.
What happens if my period starts before Tawaf?
You remain in Ihram and wait until you are purified before performing Tawaf. If your situation is complicated by travel arrangements, seek individual guidance from a qualified scholar.
How much hair should a woman cut after Umrah?
A woman trims a small amount from the ends of her hair after completing Sa’i. If you are unsure about the amount, ask a qualified scholar or your Umrah guide.
Can women wear perfume during Ihram?
Perfume and fragrances should be avoided during Ihram. Prepare suitable personal-care products before travelling.
How long does Umrah take for women?
The rituals themselves can take several hours depending on crowd levels, walking speed, prayer times and how busy the Haram is see our full breakdown of how long Umrah takes for typical timings. It is better to allow plenty of time rather than trying to rush.
More answers to common questions are on our FAQs page.
Key Takeaways
Performing Umrah as a woman becomes much easier when you understand the process before travelling. The main steps are straightforward: enter Ihram, perform seven circuits of Tawaf, pray afterwards, complete seven trips of Sa’i, and trim your hair to complete the Umrah.
The areas that require extra preparation are women’s Ihram clothing, personal-care products, menstruation, hair cutting and travel arrangements.
If you are travelling from the UK, prepare your documents early, choose accommodation that suits your walking ability, keep your essentials organised and consider whether travelling with a group would make you more comfortable.
Most importantly, don’t let practical worries take away from the purpose of your journey. Prepare carefully, ask a qualified scholar when you have a religious question specific to your circumstances, and give yourself enough time to perform your Umrah calmly.
May Allah make your journey easy and accept your Umrah.
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