Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey that allows Muslims to renew their faith and seek closeness to Allah. For Muslims living in Canada, learning how to perform Umrah correctly is essential before traveling to the sacred city of Mecca. This act of worship is rooted in the Qur’an and Sunnah and carries immense spiritual rewards.
Many Canadian pilgrims choose organized travel options such as Umrah Packages from Toronto to simplify planning, flights, and accommodation. Proper preparation allows pilgrims to focus fully on worship and understand the rituals of Umrah with confidence.
What Is Umrah in the Light of Qur’an and Sunnah?
Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage that can be performed at any time of the year. Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:196)
This verse highlights that Umrah should be performed sincerely for Allah alone. The Prophet Prophet Muhammad ﷺ performed Umrah several times and encouraged Muslims to do so. He said:
“One Umrah to another is an expiation for the sins committed between them.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
This Hadith shows the spiritual cleansing and mercy associated with Umrah.
How to Perform Umrah Step by Step
Understanding how to perform Umrah step by step helps pilgrims complete the rituals correctly.
1. Entering Ihram and Making Intention
Before crossing the Miqat, pilgrims enter the sacred state of Ihram. Men wear two white unstitched cloths, while women wear modest Islamic dress. Pilgrims make the intention (niyat) and recite the Talbiyah:
“Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk…”
This declaration expresses readiness to worship Allah.
2. Performing Tawaf Around the Kaaba
Upon arriving at the Grand Mosque, pilgrims perform Tawaf by circling the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. During Tawaf, pilgrims recite duas and remember Allah. This act symbolizes unity and devotion.
3. Praying Two Rak‘ahs
After Tawaf, pilgrims pray two rak‘ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim if possible, or anywhere in the mosque. They then drink Zamzam water and make supplications.
4. Performing Sa’i Between Safa and Marwah
Pilgrims walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, remembering the sacrifice of Hajar (AS). Sa’i teaches patience and trust in Allah.
5. Cutting or Shaving Hair
Men shave or trim their hair, while women cut a small portion. This marks the completion of Umrah and the end of Ihram.
How Long Does It Take to Perform Umrah?
Many Canadian travelers ask how long it takes to perform Umrah. Before beginning the rituals, pilgrims recite the Umrah Niyat Dua to make a sincere intention, which marks the true spiritual start of their journey. The rituals themselves usually take 3 to 6 hours, depending on crowd levels. During busy seasons like Ramadan or school holidays, it may take longer.
Some pilgrims wonder how long it takes to perform Umrah if done calmly and without rush. With moderate crowds, most people complete Umrah within half a day.
How Many Days Does It Take to Perform Umrah?
Another common question is how many days does it take to perform Umrah. Technically, Umrah can be completed in a single day. However, Canadian pilgrims often stay 7 to 14 days to pray in the holy mosques, rest from long travel, and explore Islamic historical sites.
Extended stays allow pilgrims to perform additional voluntary Umrahs, increase worship, and strengthen their spiritual connection.
Practical Tips for Canadian Pilgrims
Traveling from Canada involves long flights and time zone changes. Pilgrims should prepare physically and spiritually before departure. Learning the rituals, memorizing key duas, and attending local Umrah seminars can be very helpful.
The weather in Saudi Arabia is much warmer than Canada, so lightweight clothing and hydration are essential. Pilgrims should also keep important documents organized, including passports and Umrah Visa, to avoid travel stress.
Spiritual Benefits of Performing Umrah
Umrah is not only a physical journey but a transformation of the heart. It teaches humility, patience, and equality. Standing alongside Muslims from around the world reminds pilgrims of the unity of the Ummah.
The Prophet ﷺ emphasized that sincere worship erases sins and elevates spiritual rank. For Canadian Muslims living busy modern lives, Umrah offers a powerful opportunity to reconnect with faith and renew intention.
Conclusion
Learning how to perform Umrah ensures that pilgrims complete this sacred act according to the Qur’an and Sunnah. From entering Ihram to completing Sa’i, each ritual carries deep meaning and spiritual reward.
For Muslims in Canada, careful preparation, correct knowledge, and sincere intention transform Umrah into a life-changing experience. May Allah accept the Umrah of all pilgrims and grant them safe travel and spiritual renewal. Ameen.