Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey, offering Muslims an opportunity to seek forgiveness, purify their hearts, and strengthen their connection with Allah (SWT). It is an act of worship filled with patience, devotion, and sincerity. However, many pilgrims unknowingly make mistakes that can impact the experience and the rewards of their pilgrimage.
By learning from these common mistakes, you can ensure that your Umrah is performed correctly, smoothly, and with full devotion. In this guide, we will highlight the most common mistakes pilgrims make during Umrah and provide practical solutions to avoid them.
Table of Contents
1. Not Having Proper Knowledge of Umrah Rituals
Mistake:
Many first-time pilgrims do not study the rituals properly, leading to confusion or incorrect performance of essential steps like Tawaf and Sa’i.
How to Avoid:
✔ Learn the step-by-step procedure of Umrah before your journey.
✔ Read authentic Islamic books or watch educational videos about Umrah.
✔ Consult a scholar or religious guide if you have any doubts.
📌 Historical Reference:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of performing Umrah with full knowledge. He said:
“Take from me your rituals (of Hajj and Umrah) as you see me performing them.” (Muslim)
💡 Tip: Keep a small pocket guide with you for reference during your journey.
2. Not Making a Sincere Intention (Niyyah) Before Ihram
Mistake:
Some pilgrims wear Ihram without making a clear intention (Niyyah), which is an essential requirement of Umrah.
How to Avoid:
✔ Before entering Ihram, make a clear intention in your heart.
✔ Recite the Talbiyah (Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk) with sincerity and devotion.
📌 Historical Reference:
The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Actions are judged by intentions, and everyone will get what was intended.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
💡 Tip: Take a moment before Ihram to reflect on your purpose and devotion to Allah.
3. Wearing Ihram Incorrectly
Mistake:
Many men do not properly secure their Ihram, which may lead to exposure during Tawaf and Sa’i.
How to Avoid:
✔ Learn how to properly tie and secure Ihram before your journey.
✔ Use a waist belt to keep Ihram in place while walking.
💡 Tip: Practice wearing Ihram at home to get comfortable before traveling.
4. Engaging in Unnecessary Conversations & Distractions
Mistake:
Some pilgrims spend too much time on their phones, taking selfies, chatting, or engaging in unnecessary discussions, which takes away from the spiritual essence of Umrah.
How to Avoid:
✔ Keep your focus on worship and remembrance of Allah.
✔ Use your phone only for essential communication or navigation.
✔ Spend more time reciting Quran and making dua.
📌 Historical Reference:
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) advised against distractions during worship:
“Remember Allah much so that you may be successful.” (Quran 62:10)
💡 Tip: Limit the use of social media during Umrah to stay spiritually connected.
5. Pushing & Rushing During Tawaf and Sa’i
Mistake:
In the rush to complete rituals, some pilgrims push others during Tawaf and Sa’i, causing discomfort and even accidents.
How to Avoid:
✔ Be patient and move at a steady pace.
✔ Show kindness and respect to fellow pilgrims.
✔ Avoid peak hours if possible.
📌 Historical Reference:
The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“The strong is not the one who overcomes the people by his strength, but the strong is the one who controls himself while in anger.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
💡 Tip: Remember that Umrah is about patience, not speed.
6. Forgetting to Perform Sa’i Correctly
Mistake:
Some pilgrims do not complete all seven rounds between Safa and Marwah or forget the significance of this ritual.
How to Avoid:
✔ Count each round carefully.
✔ Reflect on the story of Hajra (AS) as you walk between the hills.
📌 Historical Reference:
The ritual of Sa’i honors the struggle of Hajra (AS), who searched for water for her son, leading to the miraculous Zamzam well.
💡 Tip: Use fingers or a mobile counter to keep track of rounds.
7. Neglecting Personal Hygiene and Cleanliness
Mistake:
Some pilgrims forget that cleanliness is a major part of faith and neglect personal hygiene during Umrah.
How to Avoid:
✔ Carry unscented soaps and hygiene products.
✔ Keep yourself clean and fresh throughout the journey.
📌 Historical Reference:
The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“Cleanliness is half of faith.” (Muslim)
💡 Tip: Pack a small hygiene kit with essentials like wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a toothbrush.
8. Not Drinking Enough Water & Ignoring Health Precautions
Mistake:
Some pilgrims do not drink enough water, leading to dehydration, fatigue, and exhaustion.
How to Avoid:
✔ Drink plenty of Zamzam water and stay hydrated.
✔ Take regular breaks and avoid excessive physical strain.
💡 Tip: Carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
9. Overpacking or Carrying Unnecessary Items
Mistake:
Some pilgrims pack too many clothes or unnecessary items, making it difficult to manage luggage.
How to Avoid:
✔ Pack only essential items like Ihram, prayer mat, and toiletries.
✔ Use a lightweight backpack for daily use.
💡 Tip: Make a packing checklist to avoid overpacking.
10. Not Making Enough Duas at Sacred Places
Mistake:
Some pilgrims rush through the rituals without taking the time to make heartfelt duas.
How to Avoid:
✔ Write down a list of personal duas before traveling.
✔ Make dua at sacred spots like the Kaaba, Multazam, and Maqam Ibrahim.
📌 Historical Reference:
The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“The closest a servant comes to his Lord is when he is in prostration.” (Muslim)
💡 Tip: Make the most of this blessed time by sincerely praying for yourself and others.
Conclusion
Performing Umrah is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enhance your journey, perform your rituals correctly, and focus on strengthening your faith.
At Al Jazan Overseas (Private) Limited, we are here to guide you every step of the way for a seamless and spiritually fulfilling Umrah journey.
📞 Need expert guidance? Contact us today to plan your Umrah with ease!
