How Long Does Umrah Take? Complete Time Breakdown for Rituals, Visa & Full Trip

The Umrah pilgrimage is not a journey like any other. It's a call from the creator that Muslims feel in their heart. So, when you plan to perform this revered journey, one of the most common questions that comes to your mind is: How long does Umrah take? Right? Well, the good news is that Umrah is not as long a ritual as Hajj. It can be completed in a few hours. But the full journey depends on many factors, such as visa processing time, travel time, crowd levels, and how long you plan to stay in Makkah and Madinah. You might have many questions about timings, such as how long it takes to perform Umrah step by step. How much time does Tawaf and Sa'i require? How long does an Umrah visa take? How many days do you need for a full Umrah trip? And what are the factors that affect the duration?

Umrah rituals are not very long and can usually be completed within 2 to 4 hours, depending on crowd levels and your pace. However, the full Umrah journey often takes 5 to 14 days, including travel, stay in Makkah and Madinah, and additional worship. Visa processing may take anywhere from 3 days to 2 weeks, especially during peak seasons like Ramadan. Overall, most pilgrims plan a complete Umrah trip of around 7 to 10 days for a comfortable experience.

How long does Umrah usually take? Quick Review

The rituals of the Umrah are not prolonged and can be finished in 2-4 hours, based on your speed and energy level. However, it is a 5-14-day journey most of the time. It varies according to your schedule and travel package. In case it is your first Umrah, you can follow this breakdown for better understanding.

• Umrah Rituals: 2 to 4 hours
• Visa Process: 3 days to 2 weeks
• Travel and Stay: 5 to 14 days.
• Time Spent on the Trip: 1-3 weeks (including planning)

If you lack time, you can complete Umrah after a few days. If you want a relaxed experience, consider a longer stay. This depends on the time of the year, season, group, and type of package.

Time Required for Umrah Rituals (Step-by-Step Guide)

Umrah normally takes about 2.5 to 4 hours, but this varies depending on the number of people, your walking pace, and your health. The Umrah has essentially four rituals: first, entering the holy state of Ihram; then performing Tawaf (7 circuits around the Kaaba); then walking between Safa and Marwa (Sa'i); and lastly, cutting the hair (Halq or Taqsir). Let's look at each step in detail.

1. Ihram and Intention (15 to 30 Minutes)

You have to be in the state of Ihram before visiting Masjid al-Haram. This includes:

• Wearing Ihram clothes (in case of men, two white sheets, and in case of women, they need to wear regular modest clothes)
• Making your intention (niyyah) for Umr+ah
• Reciting the Talbiyah

Estimated time: 15 to 30 minutes

This can be time-consuming, so when you are preparing at your hotel or even commuting to a far destination. Most pilgrims like to prepare in advance so they won't be in a hurry. Make sure you are mentally and spiritually prepared. Take a few moments to focus and make sincere intentions.

Tip: You must be psychologically and spiritually ready. Take some time to concentrate and make earnest plans.

2. Tawaf Around the Kaaba (45 to 90 Minutes)

Tawaf is walking around the Kaaba 7 times in a counterclockwise direction.

Time of your Tawaf: It largely depends on the number of people. Let's get into it,

• Off-season or late night: Faster
• Peak season (Ramadan, Hajj season): leisurely

Approx time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours

If you are an elder, a kid, or in a wheelchair, your Tawaf might take longer.

Tip: Remember to be patient and calm. Do not rush or push, and pay attentionto prayer and reflection.

3. Sa'i Between Safa and Marwah (45 to 90 Minutes)

You have to walk between Safa and Marwa seven times to perform Sa'i. This is an air-conditioned area, which makes it more comfortable. It is not as physically demanding as Tawaf, though it still takes energy.

Estimated time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours

You can walk at your own pace, and if you feel tired, you can also take short breaks.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes before Ihram and drink plenty of water beforehand.

4. Hair Cutting (Halq or Qasr) (15 to 30 Minutes)

Once you have finished Sa-ai, you have to cut your hair to complete Umrah.

• Men:
  • Halq: Shaving the head (more reward)
  • Qasr: Shortening the hair
• Women:
  • Cut a small portion (about fingertip length)

Estimated time: 15 to 30 minutes

There are many barber shops around the Haram, and employees are accustomed to serving pilgrims in a hurry. When this is done, then your Umrah is finished, and you get out of the Ihram state.

Total Time to Complete Umrah Rituals

Here is the full ritual estimate:

Your total time depends on:

• Crowd size
• Time of day
• Your health and fitness
• Weather conditions

Umrah Visa Processing Time

If you have decided to go on Umrah, the first thing that you should do is to obtain an Umrah visa. This is the most crucial part of your trip, as you cannot travel without approval. You should start your Umrah visa process early to avoid last-minute stress.

How Long Does an Umrah Visa Take?

Umrah visa processing usually takes;

• 3 to 7 working days when applying through authorised agents
• But during busy times, such as Ramadan and school holidays, it can take up to 14 days.
• More than two weeks in case of missing or correction of documents.
• Group packages often get faster processing.

Note: Several pilgrims use a Tourist Visa. It is quicker and can take you to other cities; however, it is better to look at the regulations beforehand.

Factors That Affect Visa Time

Several factors influence how long it takes for your Umrah visa to be issued. You need to address some of them when applying for your visa.

• The Season: It takes longer during Ramadan because many people are applying.
• Your Documents: If your photos are blurry or the info is wrong, the visa will be delayed.
• Your Agency: It could normally be done through a good, licensed travel agent in less time.
• Your Passport: You may encounter issues if your passport is about to expire.

Tips to Get Your Visa Faster

To minimise waiting time and prevent issues, it is recommended to:

Want to minimise waiting time and avoid issues? All you have to do is follow the simple tips:

• Book at least 3 or 4 weeks in advance, particularly during peak seasons.
• Use a licensed and experienced Umrah agent.
• Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months.
• Send accurate and precise documents, photos, and ID.
• Check the spelling of names and passport particulars again.
• Keep digital and printed copies of all paperwork.
• It is better to avoid peak travel hours.

Starting your preparation early not only saves you time but also affords you peace of mind. Once all your documents are ready, you can focus entirely on the spiritual side of the journey.

Travel Time to Saudi Arabia

Umrah is not only about the place, but also about the journey you have to take! The number of hours you spend in the air or on the road can be exhausting, but if you plan properly, you will not come back from the journey tired.

International Flight Duration

Flight time depends on where you are traveling from:

• Europe: 5 to 6 hours
• South Asia: 5 to 7 hours
• Southeast Asia: 8 to 10 hours
• Africa: 4 to 7 hours
• North America: 12 to 16 hours

Traveling with seniors? A direct flight is your best bet because it's much less tiring. Or do you want to save money on flights? Connecting flights are a great way to save money, but they do make your journey longer. So before you book, don't forget to check that the stopover airport is comfortable and whether you need a visa to stay there for a few hours.

Airport Procedures

Once your plane lands, there are a few things you'll need to do before you leave the airport.

• Immigration: 30 to 90 minutes
• Baggage collection: 20 to 40 minutes
• Customs: 10 to 20 minutes
• Transport arrangements

Well, it depends on when you are travelling. If you are travelling during busy periods, such as Ramadan or school holidays, you should expect a long wait at the airport, sometimes over 3 hours. So if you want to save some time, keep your passport, visa, hotel info, and whatever else is required at the airport in your hand so you are prepared when it's your turn.

Travel Between Makkah and Madinah

Pilgrims visit Makkah and Madinah, which are part of the Umrah tour, and they are almost 450 kilometers apart, so you'll need to decide how you want to travel between them. You have a few great choices! If you want to save time and travel quickly, take the train; if you want to save money, take the bus. There is an option for everyone.

High-Speed Train

• Time: About 2.5 hours
• Most comfortable option

Bus

• Time: 5 to 6 hours
• Budget-friendly

Taxi/Private Car

• Time: 4 to 5 hours
• More flexible

You can choose any option based on your budget and schedule.

Why Does Umrah Take Longer for Some People?

Not everyone spends the same amount of time on Umrah. Some pilgrims complete it more quickly, whereas others take longer. This generally relies on the individual situation, the mob's state of affairs, and strategy. The following are the primary reasons why some people may spend longer to conduct Umrah:

Crowds in Masjid al-Haram

• The nights during Ramadan are very hectic, particularly after Isha and Taraweeh.
• Weekends are more crowded.
• Pilgrim numbers are on the rise due to school holidays.
• There is also the crowd level that is enhanced on special Islamic dates.

Time of Day

• The morning (after Fajr): It is generally peaceful and not as congested.
• Late in the night, it is quieter.
• After Maghrib: It is one of the busiest periods.
• After Isha: Crowded, especially in Ramadan

Age and Health

Your physical health is also important.

• Old pilgrims might require additional rest periods.
• There are individuals using mobility aids, such as wheelchairs.
• Health conditions can reduce walking speed.
• Travel-related fatigue may affect performance.

Caring for your health helps you perform Umrah more comfortably.

Group Travel

Traveling in large groups can increase the time needed.

• Groups move at the pace of the slowest member.
• Waiting for everyone to gather causes delays
• Instructions from group leaders take time.
• Transit timetables may affect timing.

While group travel provides guidance and support, it often reduces flexibility.

How Long Does Umrah Take in Ramadan?

Ramadan is the busiest and most spiritually rewarding time for Umrah. This month, millions of Muslims visit Makkah, resulting in heavy crowds. During Ramadan:

• Tawaf may take 2 hours alone.
• Sa'i can be time-consuming because of crowds.
• On the whole, Umrah may last 4 to 6 hours.

If you want a faster experience, it is better to perform Umrah:

• Early morning after Fajr
• Late night after Tahajjud hours

How Long Does an Umrah Trip Usually Last?

Although the rituals of Umrah take several hours, most pilgrims spend several days in Saudi Arabia, worshipping, resting, and visiting sacred sites. The average period of Umrah packages is:

7-Day Umrah Trip

• Short and affordable
• Best for working professionals.
• Limited free time

10-Day Umrah Trip

• Balanced option
• Has sufficient time in Makkah and Madinah.
• Allows relaxed worship

14-Day Umrah Trip

• Perfect families and older pilgrims.
• Less rushed schedule
• More time for rest and prayer

3 to 5-Day Short Umrah

• Possible but very tight
• Requires good planning
• More appropriate for the experienced traveler.

The majority of pilgrims consider 7 to 10 days the most suitable period, given comfort and cost.

How Many Days Should You Stay in Makkah and Madinah?

When you plan well for your journey, you can make the most of it without feeling tired or rushed.

Makkah Stay: 3 to 5 Nights

At Makkah, you are spending the majority of your time within and around the Masjid al-Haram. Activities usually include:

• Performing Umrah rituals
• Offering prayers five times a day in the Haram.
• Offering optional Tawaf
• Reading the Quran and saying a dua.
• Resting between prayers

It is better to spend at least three days staying and worshiping.

Madinah Stay: 3 to 4 Nights

Madinah is a peaceful and meditative place. During your stay, you can:

• Pray in Masjid an-Nabawi.
• Riyadh al-Jannah (Rawdah) Visit.
• Greeting of the Prophet (PBUH) to Salam.
• Tour Ziyarats with Ziyarat tours.
• Spend quiet time in worship.

Spending a couple of days in Madinah is good enough to do so without haste.

Recommended Total Journey

For most pilgrims, the ideal Umrah journey looks like this:

• Makkah: 3 to 5 nights
• Madinah: 3 to 4 nights
• Travel days: 1 to 2 days

Total recommended duration: 7 to 10 days

This will allow you sufficient time to worship, rest, and reflect, and still make your trip manageable and comfortable.

Prepare for an easy and Rewarding Umrah

The time you need to perform Umrah varies for everyone, depending on your visa, when you choose to travel, your health condition, and your personal pace. If you are performing the Umrah prayers and rituals, you can complete them in under 5 hours. Most pilgrims stay for a few days to spend more time praying and worshiping in Masjid al-Haram. And many stay for two weeks to see both Makkah and Madinah. Before you start, make sure to look into the visa costs. Want to make it simple? Let Bismillah Travel handle the details using our reliable Umrah packages!