What Is Umrah in English?
A complete spiritual guide for UK Muslims performing the sacred pilgrimage to Mecca and Madinah in 2026
For Muslims around the world, Umrah is one of the most spiritually uplifting journeys a believer can undertake. Every year, thousands of Muslims from the UK travel to Mecca and Madinah to perform this sacred pilgrimage, seeking closeness to Allah and spiritual renewal.
However, many people who are planning their first pilgrimage often begin with simple questions. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know — from the meaning of Umrah to the step-by-step process of performing it, along with practical travel advice for booking Umrah packages from the UK.
What Is Umrah in English?
The word Umrah in English is commonly translated as "minor pilgrimage" or "lesser pilgrimage."
Unlike Hajj, which is obligatory once in a lifetime for Muslims who are physically and financially able, Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage that can be performed at any time of the year. Although it is not compulsory, performing Umrah holds immense spiritual reward in Islam.
— Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
During Umrah, Muslims travel to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, where they perform a series of sacred acts of worship around the Kaaba, located inside Masjid Al Haram, the holiest mosque in Islam.
For many Muslims living in the UK, Umrah is also an opportunity to:
- Strengthen faith and spiritual connection
- Seek forgiveness and cleanse the soul
- Reflect spiritually on life's purpose
- Visit important Islamic historical sites
Because Umrah can be performed year-round, it is often easier to plan compared to Hajj.
What Is Mecca and Why Is It Important?
Mecca (Makkah) is the holiest city in Islam and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Located in Saudi Arabia, it is home to Masjid Al Haram, the largest mosque in the world and the spiritual center of Islam.
At the heart of Masjid Al Haram stands the Kaaba, the cube-shaped structure Muslims face during their daily prayers.
Why Mecca Is So Important
Mecca holds deep religious significance because:
- It contains the Kaaba, the direction of prayer (Qibla) for Muslims worldwide
- It is the location of Masjid Al Haram, where prayer carries immense reward
- It is where the rituals of Hajj and Umrah are performed
- It was the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Millions of pilgrims visit Mecca every year to perform Islamic pilgrimage rituals, making it one of the most visited religious destinations in the world. For Muslims visiting from the UK, the moment they first see the Kaaba during Umrah is often described as an unforgettable and deeply emotional experience.
What Is Ziyarat in Umrah?
During Umrah, many pilgrims also perform Ziyarat, which means visiting important Islamic historical and religious sites. Ziyarat is not a required part of Umrah, but it is highly recommended because it allows pilgrims to connect with Islamic history and learn more about the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Common Ziyarat Sites in Makkah
Popular places visited during Ziyarat in Mecca include:
- Jabal Al Noor – the mountain containing the Cave of Hira where the first revelation was received
- Jabal Thawr – where the Prophet sought refuge during migration
- Masjid Aisha (Masjid Taneem) – a location where pilgrims can enter Ihram
Ziyarat Sites in Madinah
Pilgrims often travel to Madinah, the second holiest city in Islam, to visit:
- Masjid An Nabawi – the mosque of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
- Rawdah – a blessed area within the mosque
- Jannat Al Baqi – the historic cemetery of companions
- Masjid Quba – the first mosque built in Islam
Many Umrah packages from the UK include guided Ziyarat tours to help pilgrims explore these sacred locations.
How to Perform Umrah Step by Step
Understanding the rituals of Umrah helps pilgrims prepare spiritually and practically before traveling. There are four main steps involved in performing Umrah.
1. Entering the State of Ihram
The pilgrimage begins by entering Ihram, a sacred state of purity and intention. Pilgrims must:
- Make the intention for Umrah
- Wear special Ihram clothing
- Avoid certain actions during the pilgrimage
For men, Ihram consists of two white unstitched cloths, while women wear modest Islamic clothing. Pilgrims typically enter Ihram before reaching Mecca.
2. Performing Tawaf
After arriving at Masjid Al Haram, pilgrims perform Tawaf, which involves walking seven times around the Kaaba in a counterclockwise direction. Tawaf symbolizes unity among Muslims worshipping Allah together. Many pilgrims find this moment deeply spiritual as they circle the Kaaba, the focal point of Islamic worship.
3. Performing Sa'i
After Tawaf, pilgrims perform Sa'i, which involves walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times. This ritual commemorates the story of Hajar (Hagar) searching for water for her son Ismail. Today, Sa'i takes place in a covered walkway inside Masjid Al Haram, making it accessible for all pilgrims.
4. Halq or Taqsir
The final step of Umrah is Halq or Taqsir:
- Halq – shaving the head (for men)
- Taqsir – trimming the hair
Women typically cut a small portion of their hair. This act symbolizes humility and completion of the pilgrimage. After this step, the Umrah pilgrimage is complete.
How to Book Umrah or Hajj from the UK
For Muslims living in the UK, booking Umrah or Hajj has become easier thanks to specialized Islamic travel agencies. Here is the typical process:
1. Choose a Licensed Umrah Travel Agency
Always book through an agency that is:
- ATOL protected (ensuring financial protection)
- Experienced in Islamic travel
- Familiar with Saudi visa requirements
Trusted agencies help organize flights, hotels, and transport.
2. Apply for a Saudi Visa
UK pilgrims need a Saudi visa to perform Umrah. Travel agencies usually arrange the visa as part of a package deal.
3. Select the Right Package
Packages often include:
- Flights from the UK
- Hotel accommodation near Masjid Al Haram
- Transfers between Makkah and Madinah
- Ziyarat tours
Choosing the right package can make the pilgrimage smoother and less stressful.
How Much Does Umrah Cost from the UK?
The cost of Umrah varies depending on travel dates, hotel quality, and package type. Typical price ranges for Umrah packages from the UK are:
| Package Type | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| Budget Umrah | £700 – £1,200 |
| Standard Package | £1,200 – £1,800 |
| Premium Package | £2,000 – £3,500 |
Prices may increase during Ramadan or peak seasons. Booking early often helps secure better deals.
How to Choose a Trusted Umrah Travel Agency
Choosing the right agency is extremely important when planning an Umrah journey. Here are a few tips:
Check ATOL Protection
This ensures your flights and travel package are financially protected.
Look for Experience in Islamic Travel
Agencies that specialize in Umrah understand the unique needs of pilgrims.
Read Customer Reviews
Reviews from other UK pilgrims provide insight into the agency's reliability.
Compare Packages
Look for packages that include:
- Hotels close to Masjid Al Haram
- Easy transport arrangements
- Guided Ziyarat tours
Many UK pilgrims explore Umrah packages offered by United Travel, which focus on affordable and well-organized pilgrimage experiences.
Ready to Begin Your Spiritual Journey?
Book your trusted Umrah package today and experience the spiritual renewal you deserve
Frequently Asked Questions: Umrah for UK Muslims
What does Umrah mean in English?
Umrah means "minor pilgrimage" or "lesser pilgrimage" in English. It is a voluntary Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca that can be performed at any time of the year, unlike Hajj which is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation.
How long does Umrah take?
The rituals of Umrah can usually be completed in 3–6 hours, but most pilgrims stay in Saudi Arabia for several days to perform Ziyarat visits to other holy sites in Makkah and Madinah.
How much does Umrah cost from the UK?
Typical packages range from £700 to £3,500, depending on accommodation quality, travel season, and hotel proximity to Masjid Al Haram. Budget packages start around £700-£1,200, while premium packages can exceed £3,500.
Can you perform Umrah without a package?
Yes, it is possible to perform Umrah independently, but most UK pilgrims choose organized packages because agencies manage visas, arrange hotels, provide transport, and include valuable Ziyarat tours.
Do UK citizens need a visa for Umrah?
Yes. UK pilgrims require a Saudi Umrah visa, which is usually arranged through a travel agency as part of your package. The agency will guide you through the application process.
What is Ziyarat during Umrah?
Ziyarat refers to visiting important Islamic historical sites in Makkah and Madinah, including Masjid An Nabawi, Jabal Al Noor (Cave of Hira), and other sacred landmarks. It helps pilgrims connect with Islamic history.
Begin Your Spiritual Journey Today
Umrah is a deeply meaningful Islamic pilgrimage that allows Muslims to strengthen their connection with Allah while visiting the holiest sites in Islam.
Understanding the meaning of Umrah, the significance of Mecca, and the steps involved in the pilgrimage helps pilgrims prepare both spiritually and practically.
For Muslims living in the UK, planning the journey with a trusted travel agency can make the experience smoother and more fulfilling.
If you are considering performing Umrah in the near future, it is worth exploring Umrah packages available through United Travel, which offer convenient options for individuals, couples, and families.
Preparing early, choosing the right package, and learning about the rituals beforehand can help ensure your pilgrimage becomes a truly unforgettable spiritual journey.
