November 5, 2026 · PILGRIM GUIDE
Umrah for Shia Muslims: Important Masail to Understand Before Departure
Umrah is an important act of worship that requires pilgrims to understand the correct sequence of rituals and their religious obligations.
For Shia Muslims, particular attention should be given to Ihram, Tawaf, the prayer of Tawaf, Sa’i and Tawaf-un-Nisa.
1. Understand the Different Types of Umrah
Two important types of Umrah are:
- Umrah al-Tamattu: Performed as part of Hajj al-Tamattu.
- Umrah Mufradah: A separate pilgrimage with its own sequence of rituals.
The obligations of these two types are not identical. Always confirm which type of Umrah is included in your itinerary.
2. Main Acts of Umrah al-Tamattu
According to Ayatollah Sistani’s Hajj handbook, the obligatory acts include:
- Entering Ihram at the prescribed Miqat.
- Performing Tawaf around the Holy Kaaba.
- Performing the two-rak’ah prayer of Tawaf.
- Performing Sa’i between Safa and Marwah.
- Performing Taqsir according to the applicable ruling.
3. What Is Tawaf-un-Nisa?
Tawaf-un-Nisa is an important ritual in Shia Islamic jurisprudence.
According to Ayatollah Sistani, Tawaf-un-Nisa and its prayer are obligatory in Hajj and Umrah Mufradah, subject to their respective rules.
It is important not to confuse Umrah Mufradah with Umrah al-Tamattu because their ritual requirements differ.
4. Can Women Perform Umrah During Menstruation?
This is an important question for female pilgrims.
The rules concerning menstruation, Ihram, Tawaf and the timing of rituals require careful attention. The correct procedure depends on the type of Umrah and the pilgrim’s individual circumstances.
Women should consult their Marja before travelling if their expected menstrual dates overlap with their pilgrimage.
5. Why Should You Learn the Rituals Before Travelling?
- Understand the correct sequence of rituals.
- Avoid confusion during pilgrimage.
- Know the difference between obligatory and recommended acts.
- Understand when religious guidance is necessary.
- Prepare for questions concerning Ihram and Tawaf.
6. Official Religious Reference
Important: This article follows Ayatollah Sistani’s published rulings. Other Maraja may have different rulings.