How to Perform Hajj – Step-by-Step Guide with Al Bait Guests

When is Hajj in 2026/1447H?

What is Hajj?

Hajj is the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca (Makkah), Saudi Arabia, and one of the five pillars of Islam. It is a mandatory religious duty for every adult Muslim who is physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey at least once in their lifetime. Each year, approximately 2 to 3 million Muslims from around the world gather for this sacred act of worship during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah.

This profound pilgrimage commemorates the actions of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), his wife Hajar, and their son Prophet Isma’il (peace be upon them all). Each ritual symbolises a deeper spiritual journey: leaving behind worldly attachments, cultivating patience, and renewing one’s relationship with Allah (SWT). For many pilgrims, Hajj becomes a transformative experience that reshapes their faith, perspective, and purpose long after returning home.

This sacred journey brings together millions of Muslims from every corner of the world in a powerful expression of unity, humility, and submission to Allah (SWT). When pilgrims don the simple white garments of Ihram, all distinctions of wealth, nationality, and status disappear, demonstrating the equality of all believers before their Creator.

Travelling with a professional operator such as Al Bait Guests can help you enjoy a spiritually focussed, manageable journey while leaving the logistics in their capable hands. Al Bait Guests offer decades of experience, comfortable accommodation options, organised transportation, meal services, and on ground support, letting you concentrate on worship.

This detailed step by step Hajj guide for 2026/1447H walks you through how to perform Hajj, explaining the three types of Hajj, specific dates, requirements, and exactly what to do and when, from entering Ihram to your final farewell Tawaf.

When is Hajj in 2026?

Hajj takes place annually during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, specifically from the 8th to the 13th day. Because the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, Hajj dates shift approximately 10-11 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar.

Hajj 2026 Dates: May 24-29, 2026/1447H

These dates are based on lunar calculations and may vary by a day or two depending on the official moon sighting by Saudi authorities, which is typically announced 1-2 months before Hajj begins.

What are the different types of hajj?

When planning your Hajj pilgrimage, you must choose between three types: Hajj al-Tamattu, Hajj al-Qiran, and Hajj al-Ifrad. Each type has different rituals and requirements. Understanding these differences will help you select the best option for your journey.

Hajj al-Tamattu

What is Hajj al-Tamattu?
Tamattu means “enjoyment” or “interrupted” Hajj. This is the most popular type for international pilgrims.

How it works:

Perform Umrah first when you arrive in Makkah (during Shawwal, Dhul-Qa’dah, or early Dhul-Hijjah)
Complete Tawaf and Sa’i, then exit Ihram completely
Wear normal clothes and rest until the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah
Re-enter Ihram on the 8th for Hajj
Perform all Hajj rituals from Mina onwards

What is Hajj al-Qiran?

Qiran means “combined.” You perform both Umrah and Hajj together without breaking Ihram.

How it works:

Enter Ihram with intention for both Umrah and Hajj
Perform Tawaf and Sa’i for Umrah
Stay in Ihram continuously until Hajj is complete
Perform one Sa’i (some scholars allow a second)

What is Hajj al-Ifrad?

Ifrad means “single.”You perform Hajj only, without Umrah.

How it works:

Enter Ihram with intention for Hajj only
Optionally perform Tawaf al-Qudum (arrival Tawaf)
Stay in Ihram until Hajj completion
Perform all Hajj rituals (8-13 Dhul-Hijjah)
Can perform Umrah separately afterward if desired

How to Perform Hajj: Step by Step Guide

Step 1 – Enter Ihram: Intention, Clothing, and State of Purity

Before you begin Hajj in Makkah, you must enter a state of physical and spiritual purity called ihram.

At a designated Miqat (entry point), you should:

Make the sincere niyyah (intention) to perform Hajj.
For men: wear two unstitched white cloths (one wrapped around the waist, the other over the shoulder). For women: wear modest, simple clothing that complies with the rules of Hijab. The purpose of this is to remove indicators of class, wealth, or nationality, representing equality before Allah (SWT).
Refrain from certain actions while in a state of ihram. You should avoid: cutting hair or nails, wearing perfume or scent, engaging in marital intimacy, arguing or violence, and smoking.

Begin reciting the Talbiyah: “Labbayka Allahumma Labbayk…” repeatedly as a declaration of intention and readiness.

If you are unfamiliar with these rituals, Al Bait Guests offer comprehensive pre-departure support, such as counselling and educational resources, to help you understand the rituals and significance of Hajj. This includes virtual or in-person orientation seminars which are especially useful for first-time pilgrims.

Al Bait Guests also create local walking groups, so you can physically prepare for Hajj. This is a great way to meet fellow pilgrims from your local community and motivate each other for the journey ahead!

Step 2 – Arrival in Makkah: Initial Tawaf and Sa’i

Upon arriving in Makkah, many pilgrims choose to perform Tawaf al-Qudum (‘arrival Tawaf’).

To perform Tawaf al-Qudum, you should:

Circle the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction, starting from the Black Stone. This symbolises unity in the worship of one God, Allah (SWT).
You may also offer two rak‘ah of voluntary prayer near Maqam Ibrahim after Tawaf.
Drink Zamzam water, which many pilgrims do to seek blessing and fulfill tradition.

After Tawaf, many pilgrims perform Sa’i, the ritual of walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah.

To perform Sa’i, you should:

Begin at the hill of Safa and walk towards the hill of Marwah.
Once you reach a green light, briskly walk (or jog) until you reach the next green light.
Then, you may resume walking until you arrive at Marwah.

This represents one lap completed. Return to Safa to complete your second lap. Your Sa’i is finished once you have completed a total of seven laps between the two hills.

This rite commemorates the endurance of Hajar (peace be upon her), and her struggle in the desert as she searched for water for her son Prophet Isma’il (AS).

To make access to Tawaf and Sa’i easier, Al Bait Guests offer hotel accommodation within easy reach of the Haram (in some packages, less than a 2-minute walk!). This is especially helpful for elderly or less mobile pilgrims. Their team often coordinates group entry to the Haram and provides guidance on how to navigate the busy crowds.

Step 3 – Proceed to Mina (8 Dhul-Hijjah): Day of Tarwiyah

On 8 Dhul-Hijjah, depart Makkah and head to Mina, a tent city 8 kilometers east of the Kaaba.

Once at Mina:

Check in to your assigned tent or camp area.

Al Bait Guests provide air-conditioned tent accommodation in European-style camps (Moaisem) or in upgraded options (Majar al-Kabsh). These camps offer various facilities and amenities, including meals, sofa beds, and dedicated security personnel.

Perform the five daily prayers (Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha). You may shorten your four rak’ah prayers to two rak’ah each, without combining them, as stated in the Qur’an.
Spend the night in prayer and reflection as you prepare for the next day (Arafat). Staying hydrated and eating light snacks is recommended to keep your energy up.

Step 4 – Day of Arafat (9 Dhul-Hijjah) and Standing (Wuquf)

The ninth day is the spiritual peak of Hajj – the Standing at Arafat (Wuquf). Allah (SWT) refers to this Day in Surah al-Maidah as the Day on which He perfected His religion. Muslims across the world choose to fast in solidarity with those performing Hajj.

On this day:

Depart Mina after Fajr and make your way to the plain of Arafat before midday.

Al Bait Guests arrange transport from Mina to Arafat, and provide access to air-conditioned tents, plus refreshments, water, and meals during the day. Their team of guides and Imams are available to assist pilgrims in their journey.

Air-conditioned tents offered in Arafah (left) and designated area in Muzdalifah (right). Source: Al Bait Guests, 2024.

Offer combined Dhuhr and Asr prayers, then spend the rest of the time (throughout the afternoon until sunset) in supplication (dua), reflection, recitation of Qur’an, and Istaghfar (seeking forgiveness). Many pilgrims remain near the hill of Jabal ar-Rahmah for its historical significance.
Listen to the Khutbah (Hajj sermon) if possible, delivered from Masjid al-Nimra at around midday.

The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “Hajj is Arafah”. The standing at Arafat is the ritual that defines Hajj, and missing it invalidates the pilgrimage.

Pilgrims upon Mount Arafat. Source: Islamic Relief Australia, 2025.

Step 5 – Muzdalifah: Night Under the Sky & Collecting Pebbles

After sunset on the Day of Arafat:

Head to Muzdalifah (a flat plain between Arafat and Mina).
Perform your Maghrib and Isha prayers as soon as you arrive, shortening the Isha prayer to two rak’ah.

While there are no official tents in Muzdalifah, Al Bait Guests will be available in the designated area provided by the Hajj Ministry. Dinner and soft drinks will be served, as well as roll up mattresses to sleep on.

Spend the night under the sky or in the area provided by the Hajj Ministry.
Collect 49 or 70 small pebbles from the ground (depending on whether you plan to do 2-day or 3-day stoning in Mina). These pebbles are used in Rami al-Jamarat (the stoning ritual) the next day.

Step 6 – Day of Eid (10 Dhul-Hijjah): Stoning, Sacrifice, Haircut and Tawaf al-Ifadah

10 Dhul Hijjah, also known as Yawm al-Nahr, is the Day of Sacrifice (Qurbani).

On this day:

Return to Mina early in the morning, after praying Fajr.
Perform Rami al-Jamarat: throw seven pebbles (one at a time) at the largest pillar, Jamarat al-Aqabah. Say “Allahu Akbar” when throwing each pebble. This symbolises the stoning of Satan and rejecting his temptations.

Pilgrims performing the stoning ritual, Rami al-Jamarat. Source: Muhammad, Understanding Islam, 2024.

After the first stoning, perform Qurbani, the ritual slaughter of a sheep, goat, cow, camel, or other animal, in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son for the sake of Allah (SWT). The meat is then distributed to the needy, poor, friends, or family.

Two young boys leading a goat. Source: Zafar, S., EcoMENA, 2024.

The festival of Eid al-Adha, or the Feast of Sacrifice, is also celebrated by Muslims across the world who are not performing Hajj.

Perform Tahallul (shaving): Men should shave their heads as the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) did. Women should trim a small portion of their hair (about the length of a fingertip).

This rite represents spiritual renewal. At this point, you may partially exit the state of ihram and it is Sunnah to apply perfume.

Proceed to Makkah to perform Tawaf al-Ifadah by circling the Kaaba seven times, followed by another S’ai. These obligatory rites mark the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage.

This day encompasses some of the most symbolic acts of Hajj: rejecting evil, commemorating sacrifice and submission to God, physical and spiritual renewal, and reaffirming faith through Tawaf.

Al Bait Guests coordinate all logistical aspects of these critical rites. Their dedicated team is present on the ground to provide 24/7 assistance, guidance, and support. This includes accessing essential services and addressing any emergencies that may arise. You will also be accompanied by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about all rituals and aspects of Hajj. These guides are available to answer all of your questions and ensure you enjoy a spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience.

“Inside Saudi’s Hajj-only barbershop”. Source: MENAFN, 2025.

Step 7 – Days in Mina (11–13 Dhul-Hijjah): Tashreeq and Final Stoning Rituals

After Tawaf al-Ifadah, re-enter Mina and for the next two days (or three if you choose to remain an extra day), perform the stoning ritual (Rami):

Each day, throw seven pebbles at each of the three Jamarat pillars: Jamarah al-Ula (the smallest pillar), Jamarah al-Wusta (the middle pillar), and Jamarah al-Aqabah (the largest pillar). Do this sequentially (from smallest to largest pillar). After stoning each pillar, face the Qibla (Kaaba) to make Du’a.
Return to your camp in Mina and spend your remaining time in prayer, rest, and reflection.

Step 8 – Tawaf al-Wada’ (Farewell Tawaf) and Departure

Before leaving Makkah (heading home or onward):

Enter Masjid al-Haram for a final Tawaf, known as Tawaf al-Wada’ (farewell Tawaf). Circle the Kaaba seven times, and after completion, offer two rak‘ah of prayer and drink Zamzam water. Many pilgrims also recite dua, reflect on their pilgrimage, and pray for forgiveness and peace.

Time lapse photograph of pilgrims performing Tawaf around the Kaaba. Source: Hajj & Umrah Planner, n.d.

Tawaf al-Wada’ signifies the end of Hajj. It serves as a spiritual farewell and a final act of worship before departing the sacred space.

Al Bait Guests coordinate the final transfer from your accommodation to the Haram, assist in navigating the crowds, and arrange airport transport as per your itinerary. Their support helps ensure a calm and organised departure, letting you conclude your spiritual journey with dignity and peace of mind.

Private coaches offering ground transportation between accommodation and airport. Source: Al Bait Guests, 2024.

After the pilgrimage concludes, Al Bait Guests organise a post-Hajj reunion dinner for its groups. This gathering allows pilgrims to reflect and share their experiences, strengthen bonds forged during Hajj, and receive any follow-up guidance or support as they transition back to daily life.

Hajj reunion dinner in 2023. Source: Al Bait Guests, 2024.

Hajj Mabroor!

Hajj, when approached step by step, is a deeply moving spiritual journey. From ihram to farewell Tawaf, every stage carries historical, religious, and symbolic meaning. By following this detailed guide, you can move through the rites with clarity and confidence.

Opting for a trusted provider such as Al Bait Guests helps reduce stress, manage logistics, and handle practical needs, allowing you to focus on prayer, reflection, and devotion. May your pilgrimage be accepted, and may this guide serve as a helpful companion in your preparations Insha’Allah.

A team from Al Bait Guests. Source: Al Bait Guests, 2024.

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