Step-by-step instructions for all Hajj rituals with detailed explanations to help you prepare for this sacred journey
Hajj is the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the holiest city for Muslims. It is one of the five pillars of Islam and is a mandatory religious duty for Muslims that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime by all adult Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey.
Enter the sacred state of Ihram before crossing the Miqat (boundary). Perform Ghusl, wear the prescribed white garments, and make the intention (Niyyah) for Hajj.
Talbiyah: "Labbayka Allahumma labbayk..."
Upon arrival in Mecca, perform seven counter-clockwise circles around the Kaaba. Start and end at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad).
Walk/run seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, commemorating Hagar's search for water for her son Ishmael.
Distance: Approximately 450 meters each way (7 trips total)
Travel to Mina and spend the night there. This day is called the Day of Tarwiyah (Day of Reflection). Pray Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha, and Fajr in Mina.
The most important day of Hajj. Stand at Mount Arafat from after Dhuhr until sunset, engaging in prayer, dhikr, and seeking forgiveness.
Important: If you miss Arafah, your Hajj is invalid
After sunset, travel to Muzdalifah. Pray Maghrib and Isha combined, and spend the night under the stars. Collect pebbles for the stoning ritual.
On the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhul Hijjah, stone the pillars at Mina. Start with the largest pillar (Jamarat al-Aqaba) on the 10th.
Perform or arrange for the sacrifice of an animal (sheep, goat, cow, or camel) on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, commemorating Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son.
After the sacrifice, men shave their heads completely (Halq) or trim their hair (Taqsir). Women cut a small portion of their hair.
Return to Mecca and perform another Tawaf around the Kaaba, followed by Sa'i (if not performed earlier). This completes the major rituals of Hajj.
Before leaving Mecca, perform a final Tawaf as a farewell to the Holy Kaaba. This should be the last ritual performed in Mecca.
Our experienced Hajj guides are here to help you understand every aspect of this sacred journey.