Hajj, the world’s largest annual religious event, is a sacred journey every Muslim aspires to undertake at least once in their lifetime. As one of the Five Pillars of Islam, this holy pilgrimage to Makkah is obligatory for every Muslim who is physically fit and financially able.
Did you know there are actually three types of Hajj that pilgrims can choose from? These are Hajj-e-Ifrad, Hajj-e-Qiran, and Hajj-e-Tamattu. Each type has its own specific requirements and procedures, though they all fulfil the fundamental obligation. Additionally, the rituals of Hajj take place over five or six days in the final month of the Islamic calendar, officially beginning on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah and ending on the 13th of the same month.
For those planning to perform this blessed journey, we’ve created this comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you understand how to perform Hajj correctly, now is the perfect time to prepare yourself spiritually and practically for this life-changing experience.
Understanding the 3 Types of Hajj
Each type of Hajj represents a distinct approach to fulfilling this sacred obligation, offering flexibility based on personal circumstances and preferences. The three types differ primarily in how and when pilgrims enter the state of Ihram and whether they combine Umrah with their Hajj pilgrimage.
Hajj al-Ifrad: Hajj without Umrah
Hajj al-Ifrad, meaning “isolated Hajj,” is the simplest form where pilgrims perform only Hajj without combining it with Umrah. In this approach, pilgrims enter Ihram specifically for Hajj at the Miqat (boundary station) and maintain this sacred state until completing all Hajj rituals.
This type is particularly suitable for residents of Makkah or those living within or near the Miqat boundaries. When performing Hajj al-Ifrad, pilgrims enter Ihram with the sole intention (niyyah) of Hajj and focus exclusively on completing these sacred rites.
One significant advantage of Hajj al-Ifrad is that no animal sacrifice (Hady) is obligatory. However, scholars consider it mustahabb (recommended) to offer a voluntary sacrifice. Unlike other types, Mufrid pilgrims (those performing Ifrad) remain in the state of Ihram from the moment they cross the Miqat until after completing Tawaf al-Ifadah.
Hajj al-Qiran: Hajj and Umrah together
Hajj al-Qiran involves combining both Hajj and Umrah in a single journey without exiting Ihram between them. Qarin pilgrims (those performing Qiran) enter Ihram with the intention of performing both rituals together.
There are two ways to perform Qiran: either entering Ihram for both Umrah and Hajj simultaneously from the Miqat, or entering Ihram initially for Umrah and subsequently incorporating the intention for Hajj before beginning the Umrah rituals.
Consequently, Qarin pilgrims perform Tawaf and Sa’i at the Kaaba upon arrival in Makkah, yet they don’t shave or trim their hair as they must remain in Ihram throughout both rituals. Furthermore, animal sacrifice is mandatory for Hajj al-Qiran. This sacrifice should be arranged in Mina, typically through one’s Hajj agent.
This type of Hajj is especially beneficial for Muslims travelling from distant countries with limited time, as it allows them to fulfil both obligations in a single journey without breaking Ihram.
Hajj al-Tamattu: Umrah followed by Hajj
Hajj al-Tamattu, meaning “enjoyment,” is the most common type of Hajj performed by international pilgrims. It involves performing Umrah first during the Hajj months (Shawwal, Dhul-Qa’dah, and early Dhul-Hijjah), then exiting Ihram, and later re-entering Ihram specifically for Hajj.
In this approach, pilgrims first enter Ihram for Umrah at the Miqat. Upon reaching Makkah, they perform Tawaf around the Kaaba and Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, then shave or trim their hair to exit Ihram. On the 8th day of Dhul-Hijjah, they re-enter Ihram, this time specifically for Hajj, and proceed with all Hajj rituals.
Essentially, Tamattu is named so because pilgrims “enjoy” a period free from Ihram restrictions between Umrah and Hajj. This break allows pilgrims to rest, wear regular clothes, and prepare mentally for the demanding Hajj rituals ahead.
Animal sacrifice is mandatory for those performing Hajj al-Tamattu. If unable to offer a sacrifice, pilgrims must fast for ten days as a substitute – but not on Eid al-Adha, as fasting is forbidden on this day.
Many scholars consider Tamattu to be the preferred method for those visiting from afar, as it was specifically encouraged by the Prophet Muhammad for his companions who hadn’t brought sacrificial animals with them.
Ihram and Intention: The First Step
Entering the sacred state of Ihram marks the beginning of your Hajj journey, symbolising purification and commitment to Allah’s worship. This crucial first step requires careful preparation and understanding of specific rules to ensure your pilgrimage starts correctly.
When and how to enter Ihram
For Hajj Tamattu’, pilgrims must enter Ihram on the 8th day of Dhul-Hijjah from their accommodation in Makkah. Meanwhile, those arriving directly for Hajj or Umrah must enter Ihram before crossing the Miqat (boundary) points surrounding Makkah.
If you’re flying into Jeddah and proceeding to Makkah, you must don Ihram before landing as the airport falls within the Miqat. The airline typically announces this approximately one hour before arrival. Many pilgrims wisely choose to wear Ihram before their flight or during layovers to avoid the rush.
Prior to Ihram, perform these preparatory steps:
- Take a purifying bath (ghusl)
- Trim your nails
- Remove unwanted body hair (underarms, pubic area)
- For men: trim your moustache
What to wear and what to avoid
For men, Ihram consists of two unstitched white cloths:
- Izar: wrapped around the lower body
- Rida: draped over the shoulders
Men must not wear stitched garments, headwear, gloves, or footwear covering the ankles or instep.
Women aren’t required to wear specific clothing but should dress modestly in their regular Islamic attire. They may wear any colour, though simple garments without adornments are recommended. Unlike men, women can wear socks and regular footwear.
While in Ihram, all pilgrims must avoid:
- Using perfume or scented products
- Cutting hair or nails
- Engaging in marital relations
- Hunting animals
- Fighting or using bad language
Making the right intention (Niyyah)
The niyyah (intention) fundamentally distinguishes acts of worship from ordinary actions. It must be made at the Miqat after donning Ihram clothes and preferably after performing two rak’ahs of prayer.
While niyyah primarily occurs in the heart, many scholars recommend verbalising it to strengthen your resolve. The specific intention varies according to which type of Hajj you’re performing:
For Hajj Tamattu’: First make the intention for Umrah by saying “Labbayka Allahumma Umrah” (Here I am O Allah, for Umrah). Later, when re-entering Ihram on the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah, make the intention for Hajj with “Labbayka Allahumma Hajjan” (Here I am O Allah, for Hajj).
For Hajj Qiran: “Labbayka Allahumma Umratan wa Hajjan” (Here I am O Allah, for Umrah and Hajj together).
For Hajj Ifrad: “Labbayka Allahumma Hajjan” (Here I am O Allah, for Hajj).
Reciting the Talbiyah
Immediately after making your intention, begin reciting the Talbiyah:
“Labbayka Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la shareeka laka labbayk. Innal-hamda wan-ni’mata laka wal-mulk, la shareeka lak.”
(Here I am O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Truly all praise, favour and sovereignty belong to You. You have no partner.)
Men should recite this audibly, while women recite softly. The Talbiyah should be repeated frequently, particularly when changing conditions such as boarding vehicles, after prayers, at dawn, and when meeting other pilgrims.
After completing the Talbiyah, it is recommended to send blessings upon the Prophet (peace be upon him) and make personal supplications, asking Allah for Paradise and seeking refuge from Hellfire.
For Hajj pilgrims, continue reciting Talbiyah until throwing the first pebble at Jamarat al-Aqabah on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, while Umrah pilgrims stop upon beginning their Tawaf.
The Journey Begins: Mina and Arafat
After entering Ihram, the physical journey of your Hajj begins as you move between sacred locations outside Makkah. This phase includes two critical stations that form the backbone of your pilgrimage experience.
Spending the night in Mina
On the 8th day of Dhul-Hijjah (Yawm at-Tarwiyah), pilgrims proceed to Mina, a valley situated approximately 5-7 kilometres east of Masjid al-Haram. Often called the “City of Tents,” this normally desolate area transforms into a vast sea of white accommodations housing millions of pilgrims.
The overnight stay in Mina (Mabit) serves as spiritual preparation for the intense days ahead. Although not obligatory, remaining in Mina follows the Prophet’s example and demonstrates readiness for the forthcoming rituals. Throughout your time here, engage in prayer, dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and contemplation while resting for the demanding journey ahead.
Regardless of backgrounds or social status, all pilgrims share similar living conditions in these white tents, reinforcing Islam’s principle of equality and the transient nature of worldly comforts.
Day of Arafah and its significance
The 9th of Dhul-Hijjah marks the Day of Arafah—unquestionably the most pivotal moment of your Hajj journey. After performing Fajr prayer in Mina, pilgrims travel approximately 14 kilometres to reach the plains of Arafat.
This blessed day holds extraordinary spiritual value. Indeed, Allah frees more people from Hellfire on this day than any other. Moreover, it commemorates when Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) delivered his Farewell Sermon, emphasising unity, justice, and core Islamic principles.
For non-pilgrims worldwide, fasting on this day is highly recommended as it expiates sins of both the previous and coming year.
Standing at Arafat (Wuquf)
The standing at Arafat (Wuquf) constitutes the absolute essence of Hajj. As the Prophet Muhammad stated, “Hajj is Arafah” —signifying that without this ritual, your pilgrimage remains incomplete.
From noon until sunset, pilgrims remain anywhere within Arafat’s boundaries (except Batn Uranah valley). Many gather at Jabal al-Rahmah (Mount of Mercy), facing toward the Qibla with raised hands, devoted to earnest supplication and seeking Allah’s forgiveness.
At the Namirah Mosque, pilgrims listen to a sermon, afterward combining and shortening Dhuhr and Asr prayers. The remainder of your time should be spent in heartfelt du’a as it’s believed that Allah descends to the nearest heaven on this day, answering prayers and granting forgiveness.
As the sun sets, depart silently for Muzdalifah without praying Maghrib, which you’ll combine with Isha at your next destination.
Night at Muzdalifah and the Stoning Ritual
Upon arriving at Muzdalifah after sunset on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims gather for a night that marks the transition between two major Hajj rituals. This outdoor overnight stay under the open sky symbolises humility, equality, and devotion to Allah.
Collecting pebbles at Muzdalifah
In preparation for the upcoming ritual, pilgrims collect small pebbles at Muzdalifah. You’ll need:
- 7 pebbles for the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah (for Jamarat al-Aqaba)
- 21 pebbles for the 11th of Dhul-Hijjah (for all three Jamarat)
- 21 pebbles for the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah (for all three Jamarat)
It’s wise to collect approximately 10 extra pebbles as a precaution, bringing your total to around 60. The pebbles should be roughly the size of date stones or chickpeas. Traditionally, many pilgrims collect these pebbles at Muzdalifah, nonetheless, Islamic scholars confirm that collecting them from any clean location is perfectly acceptable.
Combining Maghrib and Isha prayers
One of the significant acts at Muzdalifah is combining and shortening your prayers. The Maghrib and Isha prayers are performed together at the time of Isha with one Adhan followed by:
- Iqama for Maghrib
- Three rak’ahs for Maghrib
- Takbir al-Tashreeq after completing Maghrib
- Iqama for Isha
- Two rak’ahs for Isha (shortened)
This method of combining prayers at Muzdalifah follows the example of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who did not perform any voluntary prayers between these obligatory ones.
Rami al-Jamarat: Stoning the devil
The pebbles collected serve for the ritual known as Rami al-Jamarat, or “Stoning of the Jamarat.” This symbolic act represents Prophet Ibrahim’s rejection of Shaytan’s temptations.
The three stone structures in Mina that pilgrims stone are:
- Jamrat al-Sughra (the small pillar)
- Jamrat al-Wusta (the middle pillar)
- Jamrat al-Aqaba (the large pillar)
On the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, you’ll stone only Jamarat al-Aqaba with seven pebbles, saying “Allahu Akbar” with each throw. On the 11th and 12th, you’ll stone all three pillars, starting from the smallest to the largest. After stoning the first and middle pillars, pause to make supplications facing the Qibla.
The correct stoning time begins after sunrise and continues until sunset, yet exceptions exist for women, elderly, and those with health conditions who may perform this ritual after sunset.
Following the stoning ritual, you’ll proceed with animal sacrifice, shaving or trimming your hair, and performing Tawaf al-Ifadah—completing major stages of your Hajj journey.
Sacrifice, Shaving, and Final Tawaf
After completing the stoning ritual, pilgrims move to the final phases of their Hajj journey. These concluding rituals symbolise spiritual rebirth and the completion of your sacred obligation.
Animal sacrifice (Nahr)
Animal sacrifice (Qurbani) must be performed on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah after stoning Jamarat al-Aqabah. This ritual is obligatory for those performing Hajj al-Tamattu and Hajj al-Qiran, yet optional for Hajj al-Ifrad pilgrims. The sacrifice commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion to Allah and must occur within Makkah’s sacred boundaries, ideally in Mina.
Acceptable sacrificial animals include sheep, goats (one animal per person), or camels and cattle (shared by seven people). Most pilgrims arrange their sacrifice through authorised agencies rather than performing it themselves.
Shaving or trimming hair (Halq or Taqsir)
Once the sacrifice is complete, men should shave their heads (Halq) or trim their hair (Taqsir), with shaving considered more virtuous. Women cut approximately a fingertip’s length of hair. Face the Qibla and begin from the right side when performing this ritual.
This act symbolises spiritual purification and marks partial release from Ihram restrictions. The Prophet made special prayers three times for those who shaved their heads versus once for those who trimmed.
Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa’i
Tawaf al-Ifadah, a fundamental pillar of Hajj without which your pilgrimage remains incomplete, involves circumambulating the Ka’bah seven times. It should ideally be performed on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah after completing the sacrifice and hair-cutting rituals.
For Hajj al-Tamattu pilgrims, Sa’i between Safa and Marwah is required following this Tawaf. Upon completion, all Ihram restrictions are fully lifted.
Tawaf al-Wada: The farewell
Before departing Makkah, pilgrims perform Tawaf al-Wada (Farewell Tawaf), encircling the Ka’bah seven final times. This concluding rite is obligatory for all except menstruating women. It should be your very last act in Makkah, symbolising a spiritual farewell to the sacred House of Allah.
Required permits for Hajj:
The permits are available through the Nusuk platform. The Ministry of Interior, in partnership with SDAIA, launched the Tasreeh Platform to streamline Hajj permit issuance. Integrated with the Nusuk platform, it authorizes access to Makkah and the holy sites for pilgrims, workers, volunteers, and transport vehicles. It is imperative to hold a Hajj permit, or individuals risk severe penalties.
How to Prepare for Hajj: A Complete Guide to Physical, Mental and Spiritual Readiness
Hajj is one of the greatest journeys a Muslim will ever take — but it’s also physically and mentally demanding. Beyond having a sincere intention (niyyah), pilgrims need to be ready for long days, crowded spaces and spiritual reflection. Preparing in advance increases the likelihood of a fulfilling, successful pilgrimage.
This guide shares practical Hajj preparation tips — from building stamina to making dua lists — and explores how the lessons of Hajj can enrich marriage.
Physical Preparation for Hajj
Hajj involves extensive walking, heat and physical effort. Start preparing months before departure:
- Build stamina: Walk daily, climb stairs or do light cardio to strengthen your body for the long walks between holy sites.
- Boost your immunity: Eat nutritious foods such as dates, vegetables, honey and healthy fats (e.g. avocado) to reduce your risk of illness.
- Preventive care: Pack medicines you know work for you (painkillers, cough drops, vitamin C). Take medication early if you feel unwell and seek medical help promptly.
- Smart packing: Make a specific checklist for the days in Mina and Arafat. Include “worship tools” for downtime such as a Qur’an, seerah book or dhikr beads.
- Dua notebook: Prepare a small book with the duas you want to make. This ensures nothing is forgotten on the most important days.
Mental and Spiritual Preparation for Hajj
Physical readiness is only part of the journey. A calm, knowledgeable mind and heart make worship easier:
- Learn the rites of Hajj: Study the steps before you go. Use apps, online courses or books to familiarise yourself with each stage.
- Plan your days: Download necessary apps (such as Rawdah booking) and lay out a daily worship schedule.
- Cultivate patience: Remind yourself you’re Allah’s guest. Expect tests and resolve not to complain. Catch yourself before reacting negatively and view challenges as part of the test.
- Maximise the Day of Arafah: Don’t wait until after ‘Asr to start making dua. The Prophet ﷺ supplicated throughout the entire day, increasing it after Asr.
- Make heartfelt supplications: Ask Allah repeatedly for guidance, ease, forgiveness, good companionship and acceptance of your Hajj.
Lessons from Hajj for Marriage
Hajj doesn’t only transform your relationship with Allah; its values can strengthen a marriage:
- Intention and commitment: As pilgrims begin with a sincere niyyah, successful marriages start with honest, God-centred commitment to one another.
- Sacrifice and patience: Hajj teaches humility in the face of hardship. Marriage also requires putting aside ego, prioritising your spouse and showing patience through challenges.
- Forgiveness and renewal: Hajj offers spiritual cleansing and a fresh start. Likewise, marriage thrives when partners forgive, heal and renew their bond regularly.
Both journeys call for patience, tawakkul (trust in Allah) and sincere intention. Approached this way, marriage becomes not only a partnership but an act of worship.
A Journey That Changes You for Life
Hajj is more than a ritual — it’s a life-changing experience meant to push you toward lasting goodness. May Allah make it easy for every pilgrim, invite all Muslims to this sacred journey, and accept our efforts.
Even if you’re not travelling for Hajj, remember the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah carry immense reward — seize them with worship and good deeds.
Conclusion
Undertaking Hajj represents one of the most profound spiritual journeys a Muslim can experience during their lifetime. Throughout this guide, we have explored the three distinct types of Hajj – Ifrad, Qiran, and Tamattu – each offering unique approaches to fulfilling this sacred obligation. Additionally, we have walked through every essential ritual from entering Ihram with the correct intention to performing the final Tawaf al-Wada.
Certainly, preparation remains key to a successful Hajj journey. Understanding the specific requirements and procedures for your chosen type of Hajj allows you to focus on the spiritual aspects rather than worrying about procedural details. The sacred journey demands physical stamina, mental fortitude, and spiritual readiness.
The rituals of Hajj symbolise much more than mere religious obligations. Stoning the pillars represents rejection of evil, sacrifice demonstrates submission to Allah, while shaving or cutting hair signifies spiritual rebirth. Therefore, Hajj transforms pilgrims not just outwardly but inwardly as well.
Remember that millions have walked these sacred paths before you, and millions will follow. Your journey connects you to an unbroken chain of faith stretching back to Prophet Ibrahim and Muhammad (peace be upon them). Consequently, approaching Hajj with sincerity, patience and devotion will help you maximise this life-changing opportunity.
Hajj truly embodies Islam’s universal message of equality, unity and submission to Allah. Though the journey may challenge you physically and emotionally, the spiritual rewards and sense of accomplishment last a lifetime. As you prepare for Hajj, may Allah accept your intentions, ease your journey, and make this pilgrimage a source of blessing and forgiveness.