How Long Does Umrah Take? Complete duration guide

How long does Umrah take? Most pilgrims take 3-5 hours to complete the rituals of Umrah, which include Tawaf, Sa’i, and Hair Trimming, depending on the volume of the pilgrims in the Haram. The remaining time is reserved for rest, ibadah, and, if your package includes one, a Zayarat visit in Madinah and/or Makkah. Most pilgrims in the UK choose to spend between 7 and 10 days. A quiet time to pray ibadah. Not long enough to make it a hassle to get out of bed.

Ihram and Intention performed for at least (15 to 30 minutes):

You have to be in the state of Ihram before visiting Masjid al-Haram.

Wearing Ihram clothes (in case of men, two white sheets, and in case of women, they need to wear an Abaya and modest clothes)
Making your intention (niyyah) for Umrah
Reciting the Talbiyah

How long do the rituals actually take:

Tawaf is a ritual performed by worshippers in which they circumambulate the Kaaba 7 times, with the aim of seeking Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. The most important ritual after entering the Grand Mosque is the Tawaf. In quiet months, the Tawaf can take between 30 and 45 minutes. It can take 1.5 to 2 hours during peak times, such as during Ramadan or during school holidays in the UK. To be able to move, it is important to choose the place where you walk.

Closer to the Kaaba = slower
Upper level = faster
The area where wheelchair access is required is separate from the flow.
Emotional moments should also be taken into account. Many people sit back, say a prayer, and soak it in. This is not a race.

Sa’i between Safa and Marwah (45 to 90 minutes):

You have to walk between Safa and Marwa seven times to perform Sa’i. It is an air-conditioned area, making it more comfortable. Not as active as Tawaf, but it does require some energy. Elderly pilgrims might take more time, however, because of rest breaks. In the case of performing Umrah when accompanied by children, it will take you longer. Kids get tired. Families pause. There is an organization with some energy levels.

Estimated time: 45 minutes – 1.5 hours
You can walk at your own speed and take breaks as needed if you are tired.
Shoes should be comfortable before Umrah, and drink plenty of water before Ihram.

Hair Cutting (Halq or Qasr) (15 – 30 minutes):

After Sa-ai, the person should shave his/her hair to fulfill Umrah.

Men:
Halq: Shaving the head (more reward)
Qasr: To trim the hair.
Women:
Analyze a small section (approximately the size of a finger)
Estimated time: 15-30 minutes

There are numerous barber shops around the Haram, and the staff are used to catering to the pilgrims in a rushed and quick manner. If this is accomplished, then your Umrah will be complete, and you will leave the Ihram state.

During peak seasons, the time may increase due to the crowd:

During school breaks in the UK, December or just before Hajj season, avoid traveling as it is a very busy time. There is increased movement within Masjid al-Haram. The lanes of Tawaf are congested. You may find yourself walking at half your normal speed. Just going in or out of the mosque may require some time. Elevators become crowded. Staircases move slowly. It might take time to find an opportunity to pray. On nights of the feast, the Tawaf – the circumambulation, which is normally 40 minutes long – can last 90 minutes or longer, depending on the day. The journey of Sa’iat might be a longer process, too, as families and senior pilgrims travel at different rates.

Thoughts UK pilgrims:

UK pilgrims don’t just do Tawaf and Sa’i for Umrah. This means arranging a vacation from work, family matters, travel arrangements, and mental and spiritual preparation. A few decide to go for a short 5-day holiday and get everything done without any hassles. Others remain 7-10 days and have a more gradual, deeper connection. Both choices are correct. The goal here isn’t to rush; it’s to get it done. The important thing is how you’re feeling in the moment. There is no set number of days for Umrah. Requires purpose, sincerity, and planning.

Travels between Makkah and Madinah are now available:

The distance between Makkah and Madinah is part of the tour of Umrah and is almost 450 km apart, and you have to choose your mode of transportation between them. There are several good options! If you’re looking for speed and convenience, you should go by train; if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you should go by bus. There’s a choice for everyone.

High-Speed Train	Bus	Taxi/Private Car
About 2.5 hours	5 to 6 hours	4 to 5 hours
Most comfortable option	Budget-friendly	More flexible

Perform an easy and rewarding Umrah:

The duration of the Umrah depends on the time allotted in the visa, the time of travel, one’s health status, and one’s own pace. If you are performing the Umrah prayers and rituals, then you can do them in less than 5 hours. Most pilgrims will stay here for a few days to give more time to pray and worship in Masjid al-Haram. And many people stay for two weeks to visit Makkah and Madinah. Be sure to research visa fees before beginning. Looking for an easy way? Leave all the details to Alfajar travels, our reliable Umrah packages UK are available!

FAQS:

What is the time duration of the full Umrah?

The period of time it takes to perform Umrah varies from person to person, but the average is 3 to 6 hours. This is because the procedure is longer to do for the first time, as you will not be familiar with the steps involved.

How to perform Umrah?

The four main acts of performing Umrah are to get immersed in purity (Ihram), circumambulate the Kaaba (Tawaf), walk between the hills of Safa and Marwa (Sa’i), and shave or trim hair (Halq or Taqsir).

Which sins would be forgiven during Umrah?

Muslims can obtain forgiveness for all their sins and receive huge rewards for doing Umrah. Prophet Muhammad has called it one of the most fruitful acts of worship, and we were also given tremendous rewards for following his Sunnah for Umrah.