Understanding Umrah
Umrah and Hajj compared
How Umrah differs from Hajj in obligation, timing, length, rites and visas.
Updated 23 October 2026Draft: awaiting review1 min read
| Umrah | Hajj | |
|---|---|---|
| Obligation | Sunnah; obligatory once according to some schools | Fard, once in a lifetime for those able |
| When | Any time of year (visas pause around Hajj) | 8–13 Dhul Hijjah only |
| Duration | A few hours | Five to six days |
| Rites | Ihram, tawaf, saʿi, halq/taqsir | All of Umrah plus Arafat, Muzdalifah, Mina, stoning, sacrifice |
| Where | Masjid al-Haram | Makkah and the surrounding holy sites |
| Visa | Umrah visa, or tourist / other eligible visas | Hajj visa through your country's quota |
Combining them
During Hajj some pilgrims perform Umrah first and then Hajj (tamattuʿ), or both together (qiran). That is a Hajj topic. This guide covers Umrah performed on its own.