The pilgrimage of Umrah is a soulful experience at any time of year, but when combined with the spiritual peaks of the fasting month, it becomes a life-altering event. Umrah in Ramadan is widely considered the pinnacle of voluntary worship, drawing millions of believers to the holy city of Makkah.
For those seeking the ultimate spiritual renewal, Umrah in Ramadan offers a unique blend of physical sacrifice through fasting and spiritual elevation through the rituals of Tawaf and Sa’ee. Understanding the depth and virtues of Umrah in Ramadan is essential for every pilgrim planning this sacred journey.
The Reward of Umrah During Ramadan: Like Hajj with the Prophet (PBUH)
The most striking aspect of Umrah in Ramadan is the immense reward attached to it. While Umrah is often called the "lesser pilgrimage," performing Umrah in Ramadan carries a weight that rivals the obligatory Hajj.
Evidence from the Sunnah
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) explicitly highlighted the reward of Umrah during Ramadan. In a Sahih Hadith narrated by Ibn Abbas (RA) and recorded in Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, the Prophet (PBUH) told an Ansari woman who missed Hajj:
"When Ramadan comes, perform Umrah, for indeed Umrah in Ramadan is equal to Hajj."
In another narration, he added: "It is equal to performing Hajj with me." Scholars like Ibn Taymiyyah in his Majmoo’ al-Fatawa and Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani in Fath al-Bari clarify that while the reward is equivalent to Hajj, it does not legally replace the once-in-a-lifetime obligatory Hajj. However, the rewards of completing Umrah in the holy month are a testament to Allah's infinite mercy.
find out: Virtues of the month of Shaban
Virtues of Umrah in Ramadan from the Quran
The Quran commands the completion of the pilgrimage in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:196):
"And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah."
Ibn Kathir, in his famous Tafsir, explains that this verse encompasses the obligation to finish the rituals once they are started. Performing Umrah in Ramadan allows a believer to fulfill this divine command during a time when every good deed is multiplied. The significance of the month of Ramadan as the month of the Quran adds a layer of "Noor" (light) to the pilgrimage, making Umrah in Ramadan a "living Quranic experience."
Learn: What is the Ramadan Kareem Meaning
Step-by-Step Umrah Guide for Fasting Pilgrims
Fasting while performing Umrah requires a delicate balance of physical energy and spiritual focus. Here is a brief guide for the fasting pilgrim:
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Niyyah and Ihram: Make your intention at the Miqat.
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Best time to perform Tawaf in Ramadan: Many pilgrims find the time after Taraweeh or shortly before Suhoor to be cooler and more manageable while fasting.
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Sa’ee: Walking between Safa and Marwah requires hydration; ensure you drink plenty of Zamzam at Iftar.
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Halq or Taqsir: Shaving or clipping the hair to complete the rituals.
For Kids: How to Make Ramadan Fun 2026
The Spiritual Atmosphere: Iftar and Itikaf
One of the most beautiful sights is the Iftar at Masjid al-Haram, where miles of plastic tablecloths are spread out, and millions break their fast with dates and Zamzam. For those staying for the last ten nights of Ramadan Umrah, performing Itikaf in Masjid al-Haram offers the chance to catch Laylat al-Qadr in the holiest place on earth.
Health Tips for Ramadan Pilgrims
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Stay hydrated between Iftar and Suhoor.
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Use sun protection if performing rituals during the day.
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Practice spiritual preparation for Ramadan Umrah by increasing your Dhikr and Quran recitation before you travel.
Ramadan Fasting Rules: Common Mistakes to Avoid
and make your Umrah in Ramadan a truly enlightened experience
FAQ about Umrah in Ramadan
Does Umrah in Ramadan replace the obligatory Hajj?
No. While the reward of Umrah during Ramadan is equal to Hajj, you are still required to perform the obligatory Hajj if you have the means.
Can I perform Umrah while fasting?
Yes. Many pilgrims choose to do this. However, if you find it too difficult, you can break your fast (if you are a traveler) and make it up later, as per the Exemptions from fasting.
Is it very crowded during the last ten nights?
Yes, the last ten nights of Ramadan Umrah are the busiest. It is important to follow crowding and safety tips for Umrah provided by the authorities.
The Reason: Why is fasting in Ramadan obligatory
How do I get a permit?
Download the Nusuk app Umrah registration system. This is the only official way to book your Tawaf and prayer times.
What is the best time for Tawaf?
The best time to perform Tawaf in Ramadan is often late at night or early in the morning when the sun is down and the heat is less intense for fasting while performing Umrah.
Best Ways for: Preparing for Ramadan in Shaban
Enhance Your Ramadan Journey with Iman School
Performing Umrah in Ramadan is a physical journey, but its success depends on your spiritual knowledge. At Iman School, we help you prepare your heart and mind for this sacred trip.
Iman School offers specialized online courses on the Fiqh of Umrah, the History of Makkah and Madinah, and Quranic Arabic. Our expert tutors can guide you through the virtues of Umrah in Ramadan and help you master the Duas needed for your journey.
