How to Perform Hajj 2026: A Simple Guide Every Muslim Needs

Every year, more than 2.5 million Muslims worldwide gather in Makkah to perform this life-altering pilgrimage. Whether preparing for your first trip or assisting a loved one, learning how to do the hajj right is essential to completing this important ritual.

This guide will explain the historical importance of the Hajj, lay out all the steps in a simple way, detail what it takes to be a Hajji, and give you tips for completing your pilgrimage. By the end of this post, you will have a step-by-step plan for one of Islam’s most important pillars.

Are you ready to travel the world? Let’s explore all you need to know about how to perform hajj successfully.

What Makes Hajj Special

Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and the most ambitious spiritual journey every capable Muslim must take at least once in their lifetime. This holy pilgrimage is built on the foundations of the Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family, continuing thousands of years-old traditions. 

The pilgrimage is observed in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, from the 8th to the 12th day. Hajj 2026 is projected to start on May 24th and end on May 29th, which varies according to the sighting of the moon each year.

As Allah (SWT) declares in the Holy Quran:

“And [due] to Allah from the people is a pilgrimage to the House – for whoever can find thereto a way. But whoever disbelieves – then indeed, Allah is free from need of the worlds.” (Quran 3:97)

Who Can Perform Hajj: Essential Requirements

Before you learn how to perform hajj step by step, you must know the right candidate for this sacred journey. Only male or female Muslim adults must perform Hajj, but children may go with their parents. The basic requirements for performing Hajj include: 

• Physical Requirements: You must be physically capable of undertaking the demanding journey. Seriously ill, weak, old, or otherwise physically disabled persons are exempt.
• Financial Requirements: You must be able to cover all costs without causing your dependents or family hardship.
• Mental Requirements: You must be of sound mind and understand the significance of the rituals.
• Documentation: A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months, recent photographs, vaccination certificates, and a guaranteed Hajj visa are required for the trip.

How Long Does It Take to Perform Hajj?

The principal acts of the Hajj take 5-6 days, starting from the 8th day to the 12th or 13th day of Dhu al-Hijjah. Most pilgrims, however, spend extra days in Saudi Arabia before returning to another country for 10-14 days.

The 7 Essential Steps: How to Perform Hajj Step by Step

Step 1: Ihram and Entering the Sacred State

Your Hajj journey begins with entering the Ihram state spiritually and physically. It entails making a sincere intention (niyyah) to perform Hajj for the sake of Allah only. Men must wear two white unseamed pieces of clothing—one around the waist and the other on the shoulders. Women can wear any modest dress that covers the body.

Upon entering Ihram, pilgrims begin reciting the Talbiyah:

لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، انَّالْحَمْدَ، وَالنِّعْمَةَ، لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ، لا شَرِيكَ لَكَ

“Labbayk Allaahumma labbayk, labbayk laa shareeka laka labbayk, innal-hamda, wanni’mata, laka walmulk, laa shareeka laka.”

Translation: “Ever at Your service, O Allah, ever at Your service. Ever at your service, you have no partner. Verily, all praise, blessings, and dominions are Yours. You have no partner.”

Step 2: Tawaf – Circling the Holy Kaaba

Upon reaching Makkah, pilgrims perform Tawaf, walking seven times around the Kaaba in an anti-clockwise direction. It symbolizes the united believer and his love for Allah (SWT). While performing Tawaf, pilgrims may try to stop and touch or kiss the Black Stone (Hajr al-Aswad), but that is not mandatory if overcrowding exists.

Step 3: Sa’ee – Walking Between Safa and Marwah

After Tawaf, pilgrims perform Sa’ee, walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah. It marks Hajar’s (AS) desperate search for water for her baby son Ismail (AS) and trust in Allah’s sustenance even in the most challenging situations. 

Step 4: Journey to Mina

On the 8th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims proceed towards Mina, which is called the “City of Tents.” Here, they spend the day and the night in prayer and meditation in anticipation of the most important day of the Hajj.

Step 5: Day of Arafah – Standing Before Allah

The 9th of Dhul Hijjah is the Day of Arafah, the best day of Hajj. From noon until sunset, the pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat for worship, praying for mercy and supplication and asking for Allah’s forgiveness. This rite is called Wuquf and is the highlight of Hajj.

Step 6: Muzdalifah and Collecting Pebbles

After sunset on Arafah day, the pilgrims head toward Muzdalifah, where they pray the Maghrib and Isha together and spend the night in the open. The next day, they gather pebbles for a ritual.

Step 7: Rami, Sacrifice, and Farewell

The final days involve:

• Rami al-Jamarat: Throwing stones at pillars symbolizing Satan
• Nahr: Sacrifice of animals to mark Ibrahim’s (AS) readiness to sacrifice his son
• Halq or Taqsir: Shaving or cutting hair as an indication of spiritual rebirth
• Farewell Tawaf: Last circumambulation of the Kaaba before leaving

How to Perform Hajj in USA

For American Muslims planning to perform Hajj, the process includes arranging a Hajj visa through the Nusuk platform, getting required vaccinations (including meningitis and COVID-19), and using a reputable Hajj tour operator. The overall time spent outside the home for Hajj is about 2-3 weeks.

Understanding and being taught how to perform hajj and then actually going is a spiritually transcending experience. As Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Whoever performs Hajj for the sake of Allah and does not utter any obscene speech or do any evil deed, will go back (free of sin) as his mother bore him.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

Strengthen Your Islamic Knowledge with Ilm Noor

At Ilm Noor, we provide extensive courses that will heighten your spiritual readiness:

Our Noorani Qaida Basic course enables you to learn Quranic recitation basics. The Nazra Quran with Tajweed course lets you recite the Holy Quran beautifully. Our Hifz e Quran (Quran Memorization) with Tajweed course offers complete memorization training for others aiming for spiritual connection.

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In Closing

Learning how to perform hajj properly is the first step in a spiritual transformation journey. This holy journey allows Muslims to purify their souls, ask forgiveness, and complete their journey back home spiritually purified. When on the Hajj, remember that it is about more than rituals—it’s devotion, spiritual thought, and an opportunity to connect to millions of other believers in the oneness of faith.

The pilgrimage requires extensive preparation, both spiritually and practically. From learning the step-by-step process to fulfilling all the requirements, adequate preparation will allow you to concentrate on the spiritual elements of this life-altering experience.

Are you ready to embark on your journey of Islamic Education? Connect with Ilm Noor now to boost your awareness before your holy journey.

FAQs

Q1: How many times should I perform Hajj in my lifetime? 

Although Hajj is only once obligatory for those who can, performing it more than once is acceptable and has more spiritual rewards.

Q2: Can women perform Hajj alone? 

While traditionally, women performed the Hajj with a mahram, current views, and Saudi government policies permit women to make the Hajj without one if they are with a safe group or take measures to safeguard themselves. It is best to consult with your local Islamic scholar.

Q3: What happens if I make a mistake during Hajj rituals? 

Minor errors in the Hajj could be rectified by redoing the ritual. Greater mistakes could need Fidya or Kaffara (compensation/expiation), and guidance should be sought from a scholar.

Q4: How much does Hajj typically cost? 

The price of the Hajj varies depending on your country of departure, whether you opt for an economy, mid-scale, or luxury package, how long you stay, and what services are included. The price of the Hajj for pilgrims in the US typically ranges from $6,000 to over $15,000 per individual.

Q5: What should I pack for Hajj? 

Pack only necessary documents, simple and comfortable wear (including Ihram attire for men), unperfumed toiletries, personal medications, and a small backpack containing a water bottle, prayer mat, and sun protection.