Ultimate Hajj Guide
Your Journey Through the Haramain
What is Hajj?
Hajj is the sacred pilgrimage to Makkah, a cornerstone of Islam and one of its Five Pillars. Every financially and physically able Muslim is obligated to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime. This spiritual journey allows believers to seek forgiveness, strengthen their faith, and spiritually connect with Allah SWT by performing rituals at the heart of Al Haramain.
How long does Hajj take?
Hajj rituals span from the 8th to the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah, lasting around five to six days. However, preparations may begin weeks prior to ensure readiness for this blessed experience.
Virtues of Hajj
Performing Hajj purifies the soul and absolves sins. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized performing Hajj with sincerity, purity of action, and devotion to Allah SWT, as it brings immense spiritual reward and closeness to Him.
When is Hajj performed?
Hajj is exclusively performed during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, specifically from the 8th to the 12th.
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The Pillar of Hajj
Hajj is the final Pillar of Islam, only obligatory for those with the means to undertake it.
- You will enter the Sacred Masjid, God willing, perfectly secure, and you will cut your hair or shorten it (as you fulfill the pilgrimage rituals) there. You will not have any fear. Since He knew what you did not know, He has coupled this with an immediate victory.” [Holy Quran, 48:27]
It includes four key rituals:
Ihram – a sacred state involving both physical attire and mental readiness.
Sa’ee – walking between Safa and Marwa, reenacting Hajar’s search for water.
Wuqoof Arafah – standing and praying on the plains of Arafat on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah.
Tawaf al-Ifadah – circumambulating the Kaaba in Masjid Al Haram.
The Significance of the Haram
The term “Haram” refers to sacred areas in Mecca and Medina – where specific acts are restricted to preserve sanctity. These are areas where divine blessings are multiplied and sins carry greater weight.
The Blessings of Dhul Hijjah
The first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah are the most sacred of the year. Muslims are encouraged to increase good deeds, observe fasting, offer Qurbani, and engage in dhikr, especially on the Day of Arafah.
Repeat Hajj
Dhul Hijjah is the final month of the Islamic Calander and in addition to Hajj, Muslims also withness the Day of Arafah and Eid ul Adha.
- The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are better than all other days of the year and most acts of Hajj are performed within this period. The Messenger (PBUH) of Allah SWT said, “There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah SWT than these ten days.” (Bukhari)
While not everyone can perform Hajj every Dhul Hijjah, it does not mean that the virtues of these days need to go to waste. Instead, Muslims may like to spend these days doing other acts from their own home including giving charity (zakat or sadaqah), praying Tahajjud, observing fasts in the first nine days, reciting the Holy Quran, doing dhikr of Allah SWT, and giving prophetic Qurbani.
- The Messenger (PBUH) of Allah SWT said, “There are no days greater and more beloved to Allah SWT than these ten days of Dhul Hijjah. So, increase in them your declaration of the oneness of Allah SWT (tahleel), your exaltation of him (takbeer), and your praise of him (tahmeed).” (Ahmed)
Preparing for Hajj
As with most things, ou should start your journey for Hajj with the intention to ask Allah for the means and resources to do so. Concerning important decisions, believers can perform Salat Al-Istikharah, to ask Allah for guidance in making the right choice.
The Costs
Hajj comes with various costs such as purchasing a ticket, visa and fnding a place to stay; it is an investment and the money you use for Hajj should be halal, and you should be able to provide for any dependents at home while you’re away. Moreover, some rituals such as sadaqah, the Eid al-Adha ritual, and the obligatory animal sacrifice need to be accounted for as well.
The Package
The Hajj package you choose can make a large difference to your trip. It is recommended to look for a travel agent that can get you the best deal. Your package should cover the necessary costs associated with Hajj so that you don’t have to worry about going over budget.
The Legal Documents
Hajj, like any form of travel, requires the appropriate legal documents. You will need a visa to travel to Makkah. The processing time for a Hajj visa can vary depending on several factors, including the country of application and the time of year. Generally, obtaining a Hajj visa can take several weeks to a couple of months, based on the requirements set by the ministry.
Millions around the world have been undertaking Hajj each year since the migration of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) from Madina to Makkah. For anyone preparing to go, it’s an incredibly exciting time but of course a deeply spiritual, serious and important period of our lives. The timeline below helps you understand the different aspects of the holy pilgrimage.
Day 1: Yawm al-Tarwiyah (8th Dhul-Hijjah)
The first official day of Hajj is known as Yawm al-Tarwiyah, or the Day of Quenching Thirst. This day holds historical significance as early pilgrims were advised to hydrate and fill their water containers in preparation for the physically demanding journey ahead. The name symbolizes readiness and reflection as pilgrims begin their sacred rites.
Departing for Mina
After completing Umrah in Makkah, pilgrims depart for Mina on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah, following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, who set out after sunrise. It is recommended to recite the Talbiyah frequently throughout this journey as a sign of devotion and remembrance of Allah (SWT).
Pilgrims typically travel to Mina by bus or coach and settle in tents provided by the Saudi authorities. Once there, you will offer the following prayers in Qasr (shortened) form:
- Dhuhr
- Asr
- Maghrib
- Isha
This prayer shortening applies to all pilgrims, whether they are residents of Makkah or not, as per the guidelines of the pilgrimage.
Spending the Night in Mina
The night of the 8th of Dhul Hijjah is spent in Mina in preparation for the Day of Arafah. During your stay, pilgrims are encouraged to engage in prayer, dhikr (remembrance), and sincere supplication, seeking Allah’s mercy and spiritual purification.
By spending the night in Mina, pilgrims complete the first day of the Hajj pilgrimage, aligning themselves with the prophetic tradition and spiritually preparing for the days to come.
Day 2: Day of Arafah (9th Dhul-Hijjah)
What is the Day of Arafah? – The 9th of Dhul Hijjah in Hajj
The Day of Arafah occurs on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, and it is one of the holiest and most spiritually significant days in the Islamic calendar. Also known as Yawm al-Arafah or the Day of Standing (Wuquf), this sacred day is the pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage, when millions of pilgrims gather on the plains of Arafat, seeking forgiveness and making heartfelt dua (supplication).
What Happened on the Day of Arafah?
On this blessed day, Allah (SWT) completed the religion of Islam and bestowed His divine favor upon the Muslim Ummah. It was during the Farewell Sermon (Khutbah al-Wada’) that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) testified three times that he had fulfilled his mission of conveying Allah’s message and delivering the Holy Qur’an to the believers.
The revelation of the verse:
“This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have approved for you Islam as your religion…”
(Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:3)
occurred on this very day.
Why is the Day of Arafah So Important?
The Day of Arafah is honored in the Qur’an, as Allah swears by it in Surah Al-Burooj:
“By the sky full of constellations, and [by] the Promised Day, and [by] the Witness and what is witnessed.” (85:1–3)
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also emphasized its significance by saying:
“There is no day greater and more beloved to Allah than these first ten days of Dhul Hijjah.”
[Ahmad]
What Should Muslims Do on the Day of Arafah?
Make Dua – It is strongly encouraged to engage in deep supplication, asking for forgiveness, mercy, and peace. On this day, Allah (SWT) descends to the nearest heaven and listens to the duas of His servants.
Fasting – For those not performing Hajj, it is Sunnah to fast on the Day of Arafah. The Prophet (PBUH) said that fasting on this day expiates the sins of the previous year and the year to come.
[Sahih Muslim]Offer Qurbani (Sacrifice) – Performing an extra sacrifice in the name of Allah on this day is highly recommended. It revives the Sunnah and allows for more people to benefit through food distribution.
Day 3: Night at Muzdalifah (9th Night)
What is Muzdalifah in Hajj? – The Sacred Stop Between Arafat and Mina
Muzdalifah is an essential location during the Hajj pilgrimage, situated between Mount Arafat and Mina. It spans approximately 12.25 square kilometers and stretches from the mountains of Ma’zamayn to the Valley of Muhassar. Pilgrims arrive in Muzdalifah on the night of the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, after completing Wuquf at Arafat, and stay overnight under the open sky.
Unlike Mina, Muzdalifah has no tents or permanent accommodation, making it a truly humbling experience. While the area is well-lit, the growing crowds can make navigation difficult as the night progresses. Pilgrims can identify the boundaries of Muzdalifah by large purple signposts. One of the notable landmarks here is Masjid Mash’ar al-Haram, which stands on the site of what was once a small mountain and is mentioned in the Qur’an as a sacred monument.
Why is Muzdalifah Important During Hajj?
Muzdalifah holds immense spiritual significance in Islam. It is the place where pilgrims rest, reflect, and gather pebbles for the next day’s Rami (stoning of the Jamarat). Many pilgrims spend the night in dua (supplication), seeking Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal.
While collecting stones, it is recommended to reflect on personal sins or bad habits—symbolically preparing to cast them away the next day during the ritual of stoning. This act of reflection and preparation deepens the spiritual meaning of the journey.
What Should You Do at Muzdalifah?
Pray and Make Dua – Spend the night praying to Allah (SWT), making sincere dua, and repenting for past sins.
Rest – It is Sunnah to rest in Muzdalifah to prepare for the physically demanding days ahead in Mina.
Collect Pebbles – According to the Sunnah, 49 pebbles should be collected for Rami al-Jamarat, with an additional 21 pebbles as a precaution. Pebbles should ideally be pea-sized—not too large or too small.
Although pebbles can technically be collected from anywhere, Muzdalifah is the preferred and most spiritually symbolic location for this purpose.
Day 4: Day of Qurbani (10th Dhul-Hijjah)
What is the Jamarat in Hajj? – Stoning the Pillars
The Jamarat are three symbolic stone pillars located in Mina, near Makkah, and form a crucial part of the Hajj pilgrimage. These pillars—Jamarat al-Ula, Jamarat al-Wusta, and Jamarat al-Kubra—represent the exact locations where Prophet Ibrahim (AS) threw stones at Shaitan (Satan) when he tried to dissuade him from obeying Allah’s (SWT) command to sacrifice his son, Prophet Ismail (AS).
Each Jamarah holds deep spiritual meaning:
Jamarat al-Ula symbolizes the first temptation faced by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
Jamarat al-Wusta represents the temptation of Hajrah (AS), the mother of Prophet Ismail (AS).
Jamarat al-Kubra marks the final attempt by Shaitan to mislead Prophet Ismail (AS) himself.
Despite the temptations, all three remained steadfast in their submission to Allah (SWT), and these moments are commemorated during Hajj.
Stoning the Jamarat – A Symbol of Rejecting Evil
The ritual of Rami al-Jamarat, or stoning the pillars, is performed from the 10th to the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah. Pilgrims throw pebbles at the Jamarat, symbolizing their rejection of Shaitan’s whispers, temptations, and personal sins.
This powerful act is not about attacking the physical structures, but about demonstrating one’s spiritual commitment to following the path of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), resisting evil, and strengthening one’s faith in Allah (SWT).
Day 5: Continue Ramy (11th Dhul-Hijjah)
Hady is the obligatory animal sacrifice performed by pilgrims on the Day of Nahr (10th of Dhul-Hijjah), following the Rami (stoning of the Jamarat) ritual. This important act commemorates the sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and marks a key step in completing the rites of Hajj.
The Hady must be offered before exiting the state of Ihram and can be completed anytime until sunset on the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. It is often included in the Hajj packages offered by authorized travel operators, ensuring the sacrifice is carried out in accordance with Islamic guidelines.
While the Hady is mandatory for pilgrims performing Hajj al-Tamattu or Hajj al-Qiran, Muslims around the world are also encouraged to offer Qurbani during Eid al-Adha as a separate act of devotion if they have the means to do so.
Day 6: Final Ramy & Tawaf al-Ziyarah (12th Dhul-Hijjah)
What is Halq and Taqsir in Hajj and Umrah?
Halq and Taqsir are essential concluding rituals of both Hajj and Umrah, performed in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. These acts signify the end of a pilgrim’s sacred journey and mark their formal exit from the state of Ihram.
Halq refers to shaving the entire head, a practice typically carried out by male pilgrims.
Taqsir means to trim at least an inch of hair from the head, and it is the method prescribed for women, though men may also opt for it if preferred.
It is recommended to begin the act of Halq or Taqsir by starting from the right side of the head while facing the Holy Kaaba.
A pilgrim cannot leave the state of Ihram until one of these two rites is completed. This step is symbolic of humility, spiritual renewal, and submission to the will of Allah (SWT).
Why is Halq and Taqsir Important?
The importance of Halq and Taqsir is emphasized in the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In an authentic hadith narrated in Sahih al-Bukhari, the Prophet (PBUH) said:
“O Allah! Be merciful to those who shave their heads.”
The companions asked, “And those who cut their hair short, O Messenger of Allah?”
The Prophet (PBUH) repeated: “O Allah! Be merciful to those who shave their heads.”
After multiple requests, he finally added: “And to those who trim their hair.”
This repeated emphasis highlights the virtue and reward associated with shaving the head (Halq), while also acknowledging the act of trimming (Taqsir) as a valid and rewarded alternative.
Day 7: Tawaf al-Wada
What is Tawaf al-Ziyarah in Hajj?
Tawaf al-Ziyarah, also known as Tawaf al-Ifadah, is one of the most important rituals of Hajj. It is performed by pilgrims on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, after completing the Qurbani (animal sacrifice), Halq (shaving of the head) or Taqsir (hair trimming), and exiting the state of Ihram.
This ritual is referred to as the “Tawaf of Visitation” because it marks the pilgrim’s symbolic return to the Holy Kaaba in Masjid al-Haram to reaffirm their devotion after the physical challenges of Hajj.
When to Perform Tawaf al-Ziyarah
Pilgrims should ideally perform Tawaf al-Ziyarah after Fajr on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah and before sunset on the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. While it is best to complete this Tawaf before returning to Mina for the Rami (stoning of the Jamarat), it remains valid as long as it’s completed within this timeframe.
Rulings and Sunnah for Tawaf al-Ziyarah
It is Sunnah to perform ghusl (ritual purification) before Tawaf al-Ziyarah.
If a pilgrim is still in Ihram and has not yet trimmed or shaved their hair, they must avoid using any forbidden products or actions that would break the rules of Ihram.
No specific intention (niyyah) is required. Any Tawaf performed within the valid timeframe is automatically considered as Tawaf al-Ziyarah.
Day 8: Sa’ee of Tawaf al-Ziyarah
What is Sa’ee in Hajj and Umrah?
Sa’ee refers to the ritual of walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, located within Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. Linguistically, “Sa’ee” means to strive or make an effort. In the context of Hajj and Umrah, Sa’ee symbolizes the devotion and struggle of Hajar (AS), the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who ran between these two hills in search of water for her infant son, Ismail (AS).
Sa’ee is the fourth essential ritual of both Hajj and Umrah, and must be performed after completing Tawaf and its associated prayers. This act honors the unwavering faith and determination of a mother, deeply embedded in Islamic history.
Sa’ee of Tawaf al-Ziyarah
For those performing Hajj al-Tamattu, Sa’ee after Tawaf al-Ziyarah is an obligatory ritual. While no specific verbal intention (niyyah) is required, the first Sa’ee performed following Tawaf al-Ziyarah will automatically be considered valid.
Although Sa’ee doesn’t need to be performed immediately after Tawaf al-Ziyarah, it is preferable to complete it before sunset on the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. It’s also important to note that hair cutting or shaving is not required after this Sa’ee, as it has already been done earlier during the Hajj process.
Day 9: Tawaf al-Wada (Farewell Tawaf)
Tawaf al-Wada, meaning the Farewell Tawaf, is the final ritual that pilgrims perform before departing from Makkah after completing Hajj. Pilgrims return to the Holy Kaaba in Masjid al-Haram and circumambulate it seven times, bidding a heartfelt farewell to the House of Allah (SWT). This act symbolizes the completion of the sacred pilgrimage and the emotional conclusion of one’s journey to the Haramain.
Although Tawaf al-Wada marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage, many pilgrims choose to visit Madinah (Al-Masjid An-Nabawi) afterward to send peace and blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) before returning home.
The significance of this ritual is emphasized in the Hadith of Ibn Abbas (RA), who reported that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) instructed:
“None of you should depart until he makes as his last act Tawaf of the House.”
[Sahih al-Bukhari, 1755]
This final act ensures that a pilgrim’s last moments in Makkah are in devotion and remembrance of Allah (SWT).
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Arrival: King Abdul Aziz International Airport Jeddah (JED)
- Expect organized customs and bus transport by authorities.
- Declare any large gifts or funds.
Transportation within the Haramain
- Private cars are restricted in Mecca during Hajj. Parking is available at designated lots.
- Take buses or trains (like Al-Mashaaer Al-Mugaddassah Metro) to travel between Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
Makkah to Madinah Transportation
- High-speed trains or buses connect Makkah and Madinah efficiently.
- These are often included in most Hajj packages.
Travelling by Land
Hajj pilgrims residing in adjacent countries are allowed to enter the Kingdom through land ports on their own or rented cars. They may also enter through land ports using means of transportation licensed to external agents only.
Residents and local citizens intending to do Hajj or Umrah can travel by public transport buses. Small cars are banned from entering Makkah before the start of the Hajj season and on the last ten days of Ramadan unless they have an official entry permit.
At entrances to Makkah, there are 7 parking lots able to accommodate 50,000 cars of Umrah pilgrims.
You will be asked to park your car in a parking lot in the Holy Capital (Makkah). At these parking lots, buses transport Hajj and Umrah pilgrims directly to the Grand Mosque.
Traveling Between Holy Sites During Hajj – Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah
Mina is a significant site located approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) east of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, nestled in the Mina Valley. Situated at an elevation of around 400 meters (1,230 feet), Mina is bordered by the 4th Ring Road to the north, Makkah city to the west, the Al-Jamaih district to the south, and Muzdalifah to the east. During Hajj, pilgrims spend the night in Mina and perform five obligatory prayers as part of the sacred rituals.
Mount Arafat, also known as Jabal Arafat, lies about 10 kilometers from Mina in the open plains of Arafah. Pilgrims traditionally depart Mina after sunrise on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, aiming to reach Arafat before Dhuhr. However, due to the large crowds and heavy traffic, delays are common—so pilgrims are advised to plan ahead and remain patient during the journey.
Muzdalifah is strategically located between Arafat and Mina in the Hejaz region of Saudi Arabia. This holy site spans over 12.25 square kilometers, stretching from the Ma’zamayn mountains to the Valley of Muhassar. Pilgrims must stay in Arafat until sunset before making their way to Muzdalifah to continue the next phase of Hajj.
Transportation Options During Hajj
Pilgrims have several transportation options for moving between Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah during Hajj. These include:
Al-Mashaaer Al-Mugaddassah Metro: A dedicated train service with air-conditioned compartments that offers quick and efficient transportation between the major holy sites. It helps reduce travel time significantly and is ideal for those seeking convenience.
Buses: Many pilgrims choose to travel by bus, which offers a relatively comfortable experience. However, traffic congestion is common due to the massive number of pilgrims on the move.
Walking: Some pilgrims prefer to walk between the Hajj sites for a more personal and spiritually engaging experience. While walking is not a Sunnah requirement, it can be rewarding and reflective. However, it’s essential to consider one’s physical health and stamina before opting to walk.
Whether by train, bus, or on foot, each method of transportation during Hajj has its pros and cons. Pilgrims are encouraged to choose the mode of travel that best suits their health, time constraints, and spiritual goals.
Navigate Hajj Islamic terminologies with ease. Our glossary offers clear definitions of key terms, aiding both newcomers and seasoned learners in deepening their understanding of Islamic teachings.
Ihram – Entering the Sacred State for Hajj
Ihram is the sacred state a Muslim must enter before performing the rites of Hajj or Umrah. It begins with specific acts of purification and the wearing of designated white garments. Every pilgrim intending to perform Hajj or Umrah must enter this state before crossing the Miqat boundary. Ihram symbolizes purity, humility, and readiness to fulfill the pilgrimage solely for the sake of Allah (SWT).
Tawaf – Circumambulation of the Kaaba
Tawaf is the ritual of walking around the Holy Kaaba in Makkah seven times in an anti-clockwise direction. It is a central part of both Hajj and Umrah. Pilgrims perform Tawaf while reciting Takbir and other prescribed duas, following the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This act reflects devotion, unity, and the timeless connection to Allah’s House.
Tawaf al-Qudum – The Arrival Tawaf
Tawaf al-Qudum is the initial circumambulation performed by pilgrims entering Makkah for Hajj al-Ifrad or Hajj al-Qiran. This Tawaf marks the pilgrim’s formal entry into Masjid al-Haram before the start of Hajj rituals, typically completed before the Day of Arafah.
Sa’ee – Walking Between Safa and Marwa
Sa’ee is the act of walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, commemorating the devotion and struggle of Hajar (AS), wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). It is a compulsory ritual in both Hajj and Umrah, performed after Tawaf. This rite honors perseverance, faith, and the power of supplication.
Miqat – The Boundary for Entering Ihram
Miqat refers to specific geographical points where pilgrims must don the Ihram and formally begin their Hajj or Umrah rituals. Before crossing this boundary, one must cleanse, wear the Ihram garments, and recite the Talbiyah. Entering Ihram at Miqat signifies the pilgrim’s spiritual readiness and intention.
Talbiyah – The Call of the Pilgrim
The Talbiyah is a sacred chant recited by pilgrims upon entering the state of Ihram. It proclaims the pilgrim’s devotion and intention to perform Hajj solely for the sake of Allah (SWT). Reciting the Talbiyah frequently reinforces the spirit of submission and sincerity throughout the pilgrimage.
Halq – Shaving the Head After Hajj
Halq is the complete shaving of the head performed by male pilgrims at the end of Hajj. It signifies humility, renewal, and the completion of the pilgrimage. This act allows the pilgrim to exit the state of Ihram and is traditionally done starting from the right side while facing the Kaaba.
Taqsir – Hair Trimming for Women Pilgrims
Taqsir involves trimming a small portion of hair and is the alternative to Halq for female pilgrims. It is an essential part of completing Hajj or Umrah, marking the end of the sacred state of Ihram in a modest and respectful manner.
Wuquf – Standing at Arafat
Wuquf at Arafat is the most crucial pillar of Hajj. On the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims gather at the plain of Arafat to stand in worship, make du'a, and seek forgiveness. Missing Wuquf invalidates the Hajj. This day is considered the pinnacle of the pilgrimage, symbolizing reflection, repentance, and nearness to Allah.
Rami – Stoning the Pillars in Mina
Rami is the ritual act of throwing pebbles at the three stone pillars (Jamarat) in Mina, performed on the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. It symbolizes the rejection of Shaytaan (Satan) and evil temptations, reenacting Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) steadfastness against the whispers of the devil.
