Complete Step-by-Step Hajj Guide - Rituals, Days & Timeline
Table of Contents
The Significance of Hajj
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and represents the pinnacle of a Muslim’s spiritual life. This sacred pilgrimage to Makkah is an obligation for every Muslim who is physically and financially able to undertake it at least once in their lifetime.
The journey commemorates the trials and sacrifices of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), his wife Hajar (Hagar), and their son Ismail (Ishmael). Through performing Hajj, Muslims from around the world unite in faith, standing equal before Allah regardless of race, nationality, or social status. It is a profound act of worship that cleanses the soul, forgives sins, and renews one’s commitment to living a life pleasing to Allah.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever performs Hajj and does not commit any obscenity or transgression will return [free from sin] as on the day his mother gave birth to him.” (Sahih Bukhari)
When Does Hajj Take Place?
Hajj occurs annually during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The main rituals of Hajj are performed between the 8th and 13th of Dhul Hijjah, with the Day of Arafah falling on the 9th and Eid al-Adha beginning on the 10th.
Important dates to remember:
- 8th Dhul Hijjah: Day of Tarwiyah—pilgrims travel to Mina
- 9th Dhul Hijjah: Day of Arafah—the most important day of Hajj
- 10th Dhul Hijjah: Eid al-Adha and the Day of Sacrifice
- 11th-13th Dhul Hijjah: Days of Tashreeq—remaining in Mina
Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, Hajj dates shift approximately 10-11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar. The entire Hajj season typically spans 5-6 days for the core rituals, though many pilgrims arrive earlier and stay longer.
Step 1: Entering Ihram
What is Ihram?
Ihram is the sacred state of purity and devotion that pilgrims must enter before performing Hajj or Umrah. It involves both physical preparation (wearing specific garments) and spiritual commitment (making the intention and following certain restrictions).
The Miqat Boundaries
Pilgrims must enter the state of Ihram before crossing designated boundary points called Miqat. There are several Miqat locations depending on your direction of travel:
- Dhul-Hulaifah (Abyar Ali): For those coming from or through Madinah
- Al-Juhfah: For those coming from Syria, Egypt, or the Maghreb
- Qarn al-Manazil: For those coming from Najd (central Arabia)
- Yalamlam: For those coming from Yemen
- Dhat Irq: For those coming from Iraq
If you’re flying directly to Jeddah, you will typically enter Ihram before your flight or on the plane as you approach the Miqat boundary.
How to Enter Ihram
Physical Preparation:
- Perform ghusl (ritual bath): Take a complete bath with the intention of purifying yourself for Ihram
- Groom yourself: Trim nails, remove unwanted hair, apply perfume to your body (not to Ihram garments)
- Dress in Ihram garments:
- Men: Two white, unstitched pieces of cloth—one wrapped around the waist (izar) and one draped over the upper body (rida). Wear sandals that expose the heels and toes
- Women: Modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers the entire body except the face and hands. Any color is acceptable, though many choose white
Spiritual Preparation:
- Pray two rak’ahs: Perform two units of prayer (if it’s not a disliked time for prayer)
- Make intention (Niyyah): Declare your intention in your heart for Hajj
- Recite the Talbiyah: Begin reciting:
“Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayk la shareeka laka labbayk. Inna al-hamda wan-ni’mata laka wal-mulk, la shareeka lak.”
(Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Surely all praise, grace, and dominion are Yours, and You have no partner.)
Continue reciting the Talbiyah frequently throughout your journey until you begin the Tawaf.
Restrictions While in Ihram
Once in Ihram, certain actions are prohibited:
For everyone:
- No cutting of hair or nails
- No use of scented products
- No killing of animals or insects (except harmful ones)
- No sexual activity or talk
- No marriage contracts
- No arguing or fighting
- No wearing of gloves (for men) or face coverings (for women)
For men specifically:
- No wearing of stitched clothing
- No covering of the head
For women specifically:
- No covering of the face (though you may drape fabric from your head forward when needed)
Step 2: Arrival in Makkah and Tawaf al-Qudum
Entering Makkah
Upon arriving in Makkah, proceed to your accommodation to rest briefly if needed. When you’re ready, head to the Masjid al-Haram (the Grand Mosque) to perform your first Tawaf.
Entering the Haram
As you approach the Haram, enter with your right foot first and recite:
“Bismillah, was-salatu was-salamu ‘ala Rasulillah. Allahumma iftah li abwaba rahmatik.”
(In the name of Allah, and peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah. O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy.)
First Glimpse of the Kaaba
When you first see the Kaaba, this is a blessed moment when duas (supplications) are answered. Raise your hands and make sincere dua from your heart. Many pilgrims are overcome with emotion at this moment—this is natural and part of the spiritual experience.
Tawaf al-Qudum (Arrival Tawaf)
Tawaf means to circle the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. This is your first Tawaf upon arrival in Makkah.
How to Perform Tawaf:
Begin at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad):
- If possible, kiss the Black Stone or touch it with your right hand and kiss your hand
- If the crowd is too dense, raise your right hand toward it and say “Allahu Akbar” (this is perfectly acceptable and avoids causing harm)
- This marks the start of your first circuit
Circle the Kaaba seven times:
- Keep the Kaaba on your left side
- Men may perform Idtiba (uncovering the right shoulder) and Raml (walking briskly) for the first three circuits
- Recite dhikr, make dua, and recite Quran during Tawaf
- Between the Yemeni Corner and the Black Stone, recite: “Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina ‘adhaban-nar” (Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire)
Complete seven circuits:
- Each time you reach the Black Stone, that completes one circuit
- After seven complete circuits, your Tawaf is complete
Pray two rak’ahs:
- After completing Tawaf, pray two rak’ahs at Maqam Ibrahim (if possible) or anywhere in the Haram
- It’s recommended to recite Surah al-Kafirun in the first rak’ah and Surah al-Ikhlas in the second
Drink Zamzam water:
- After the prayer, drink Zamzam water and make dua
Notes on Tawaf:
- Stay focused on your worship and be mindful of others
- Be patient—the Haram can be extremely crowded
- If you need to take a break, you can stop and resume from where you left off
- Women should not perform Raml or Idtiba
- Wheelchairs are available for elderly or disabled pilgrims
Step 3: Sa’i Between Safa and Marwa
After completing Tawaf and praying two rak’ahs, proceed to perform Sa’i, which commemorates Hajar’s search for water for her son Ismail.
How to Perform Sa’i:
Begin at Mount Safa:
- Approach Safa and recite: “Inna as-Safa wal-Marwata min sha’a’irillah” (Indeed, Safa and Marwa are among the symbols of Allah)
- Climb up Safa (if able) until you can see the Kaaba
- Face the Kaaba, raise your hands, and make dua
- Say “Allahu Akbar” three times and make sincere supplications
Walk to Mount Marwa:
- Descend from Safa and walk toward Marwa
- Between the two green lights (markers), men should jog at a moderate pace (this is called Harwalah); women walk normally
- Recite dhikr, make dua, and supplicate as you walk
Reach Mount Marwa:
- Climb up Marwa (if able)
- Face the Kaaba, raise your hands, and make dua
- This completes one lap
Return to Safa:
- Walk back from Marwa to Safa (jogging between the green markers)
- This completes the second lap
Complete seven laps:
- Continue going back and forth between Safa and Marwa
- Safa to Marwa = 1 lap
- Marwa to Safa = 2 laps
- Continue until you complete seven laps, ending at Marwa
After Sa’i:
For those performing Hajj al-Tamattu’ (the most common type), you should:
- Have your hair shortened (men) or trim a small amount (women)
- Exit the state of Ihram
- Remain in Makkah in regular clothes until the 8th of Dhul Hijjah
For those performing Hajj al-Qiran or Hajj al-Ifrad, you remain in Ihram.
Step 4: The Day of Tarwiyah (8th Dhul Hijjah) – Going to Mina
The 8th of Dhul Hijjah is called the Day of Tarwiyah, marking the official beginning of Hajj.
Preparing for Hajj
In the morning of the 8th:
- Perform ghusl and enter Ihram again (if you performed Tamattu’)
- Make your intention for Hajj
- Begin reciting the Talbiyah
Journey to Mina
- Depart for Mina, located approximately 8 kilometers from Makkah
- Most pilgrims travel by bus provided by their Hajj group
- Arrive at your assigned tent in Mina
Activities in Mina (8th Dhul Hijjah)
What to do:
- Pray Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha, and next day’s Fajr in Mina
- Prayers are shortened (2 rak’ahs instead of 4) but not combined
- Spend time in worship, reciting Quran, making dhikr, and supplicating
- Rest and prepare for the next day—the most important day of Hajj
What to remember:
- Stay with your group to avoid getting lost
- Keep your identification and group information on you
- Conserve energy for the Day of Arafah
- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated
Step 5: The Day of Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah) – Standing at Arafah
The 9th of Dhul Hijjah is the Day of Arafah—the most important day of Hajj. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Hajj is Arafah.”
Morning in Mina
- Pray Fajr in Mina
- After sunrise, depart for Arafah
- Continue reciting the Talbiyah
Arrival at Arafah
- Arrive at the plain of Arafah (approximately 14 km from Mina)
- Proceed to your assigned tent or area
- The entire plain of Arafah is the place of standing, not just Mount Arafah (Jabal al-Rahmah)
The Standing (Wuquf) at Arafah
This is the central pillar of Hajj. If you miss the standing at Arafah, your Hajj is not valid.
Timing:
- The time for standing begins after Dhuhr (midday) on the 9th
- Continues until Fajr on the 10th
- Most pilgrims stand from after Dhuhr until sunset
How to spend the Day of Arafah:
Pray Dhuhr and Asr combined and shortened:
- Listen to the Khutbah (sermon) if available
- Pray Dhuhr and Asr together at Dhuhr time (2 rak’ahs each, combined)
Dedicate yourself to worship:
- Face the Qibla (direction of Kaaba)
- Raise your hands in supplication
- Make sincere dua for yourself, your family, the Ummah, and all of humanity
- Recite the Quran
- Say Tahlil: “La ilaha illa Allah”
- Seek forgiveness repeatedly
Recommended supplications:
- “La ilaha illa Allahu wahdahu la shareeka lah, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu wa huwa ‘ala kulli shay’in qadeer”
- Make dua in your own language from your heart
- This is the best day of the year for dua—ask for everything
Important reminders:
- You don’t need to climb Jabal al-Rahmah (Mount of Mercy)
- Standing anywhere within the boundaries of Arafah is valid
- Avoid spending the day in idle talk or distractions
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun
The boundaries of Arafah:
- Ensure you are within the boundaries of Arafah (marked clearly)
- The Masjid Namirah is partially outside Arafah—be aware of boundary markers
Sunset – Departure to Muzdalifah
- Wait until after sunset to leave Arafah (leaving before sunset invalidates this essential act)
- Depart for Muzdalifah immediately after sunset
- Pray Maghrib and Isha combined and shortened upon arrival in Muzdalifah
Step 6: Muzdalifah (Night of 9th-10th Dhul Hijjah)
After the Day of Arafah, pilgrims proceed to Muzdalifah, an area between Arafah and Mina.
Arrival at Muzdalifah
- Travel approximately 9 kilometers from Arafah to Muzdalifah
- The journey may take several hours due to crowds
- Continue reciting Talbiyah
Activities in Muzdalifah
Upon arrival:
Pray Maghrib and Isha:
- Combine and shorten these prayers
- Pray Maghrib (3 rak’ahs) and Isha (2 rak’ahs) together
- One adhan and two iqamahs
Collect pebbles for stoning:
- Collect 49 or 70 small pebbles (size of chickpeas)
- 49 is sufficient: 7 for the 10th, 21 for the 11th, and 21 for the 12th
- 70 includes extra for the 13th if you stay the additional day
- Pebbles can be collected anywhere—Muzdalifah is not special for this
- You can also collect them in Mina
Spend the night:
- Sleep under the open sky (most common)
- Engage in worship, dhikr, and dua
- Rest and conserve energy for the next day
Pray Fajr:
- Pray Fajr at its earliest time
- Make abundant dua after Fajr
Leaving Muzdalifah
- Depart after Fajr for Mina, before sunrise
- Weak individuals, women, and the elderly may leave after midnight
- Continue reciting Talbiyah until you reach the Jamarat
Step 7: Day of Sacrifice (10th Dhul Hijjah – Eid al-Adha)
The 10th of Dhul Hijjah is Eid al-Adha, the Day of Sacrifice. This day involves several key rituals performed in sequence.
The Four Main Acts (in order):
- Stoning the largest pillar (Jamarat al-Aqabah)
- Offering the sacrifice (Hady)
- Shaving or trimming hair (Halq or Taqsir)
- Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa’i
1. Stoning Jamarat al-Aqabah
When: After sunrise on the 10th (though it can be done from after midnight for those who left Muzdalifah early)
How:
- Go to the Jamarat area in Mina
- Locate the largest pillar (Jamarat al-Aqabah or Jamarat al-Kubra)
- Throw seven pebbles, one at a time, at the pillar
- Say “Allahu Akbar” with each throw
- Stop reciting Talbiyah after the first pebble hits
Tips:
- The target is now a large wall/basin structure, not a pillar
- Throw from ground level—no need to get close
- Be patient and mindful of others
- Women, elderly, and weak individuals can appoint someone to stone on their behalf
2. Offering the Sacrifice (Hady)
Who must sacrifice:
- Those performing Hajj al-Tamattu’ or Hajj al-Qiran must offer a sacrifice
- Those performing Hajj al-Ifrad are not required to sacrifice
How it’s done today:
- Most pilgrims purchase a sacrifice voucher in advance
- The sacrifice is performed on your behalf at designated slaughterhouses
- The meat is distributed to the poor
- You do not need to be physically present
Timing:
- The sacrifice can be made on the 10th, 11th, 12th, or 13th of Dhul Hijjah
3. Shaving or Trimming Hair (Halq or Taqsir)
After stoning and arranging the sacrifice:
Men:
- Shave the entire head (Halq) – this is more rewarding
- OR trim at least an inch from all over the head (Taqsir)
- Barbers are available throughout Mina
Women:
- Trim approximately one inch (fingertip length) from the ends of the hair
- This can be done in privacy
First Tahallul (Partial Exit from Ihram)
After completing two of the three acts above (stoning, sacrifice, hair removal), you enter the state of first Tahallul:
- You can now exit Ihram and wear regular clothes
- All restrictions of Ihram are lifted EXCEPT marital relations
- Many pilgrims change into regular clothes at this point
4. Tawaf al-Ifadah (Tawaf of Hajj)
When: Anytime on the 10th, though it can be delayed until later days
How:
- Return to Makkah (approximately 8 km from Mina)
- Perform Tawaf exactly as you did upon arrival (7 circuits)
- Pray two rak’ahs after Tawaf
- Perform Sa’i between Safa and Marwa (if you didn’t do it earlier or if performing Hajj al-Ifrad/Qiran)
Second Tahallul (Complete Exit from Ihram)
After completing Tawaf al-Ifadah, you enter the state of second Tahallul:
- All restrictions of Ihram are now completely lifted
- Marital relations are now permitted
Flexibility in Order
While the preferred order is stoning → sacrifice → hair removal → Tawaf, the Prophet (peace be upon him) gave permission for these to be done in any order on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah for those who needed flexibility.
Return to Mina
After completing these rituals, return to Mina to spend the nights of the 11th and 12th (and optionally the 13th).
Step 8: Days of Tashreeq (11th, 12th, and 13th Dhul Hijjah)
The three days following Eid are called Ayyam al-Tashreeq (Days of Tashreeq). Pilgrims must spend the nights in Mina and perform the stoning ritual each day.
Staying in Mina
- Spend the nights of the 11th and 12th in Mina
- If you choose to leave early, you must depart before sunset on the 12th
- If you remain past sunset on the 12th, you must stay for the 13th and stone on that day as well
Daily Stoning Ritual (11th and 12th)
Each day, stone all three Jamarat in order:
Timing: After Dhuhr (midday) until before Fajr of the next day (though doing it after Dhuhr and before sunset is preferred)
How:
First Pillar (Jamarat al-Sughra – smallest):
- Throw 7 pebbles, one at a time
- Say “Allahu Akbar” with each throw
- After finishing, move away and make dua facing the Qibla
Second Pillar (Jamarat al-Wusta – middle):
- Throw 7 pebbles, one at a time
- Say “Allahu Akbar” with each throw
- After finishing, move away and make dua facing the Qibla
Third Pillar (Jamarat al-Aqabah – largest):
- Throw 7 pebbles, one at a time
- Say “Allahu Akbar” with each throw
- Depart without making dua after this one
Total pebbles per day: 21 (7 for each of the three pillars)
13th Dhul Hijjah (Optional)
If you remain in Mina past sunset on the 12th:
- You must stay the night of the 13th
- Perform stoning at all three Jamarat again (21 pebbles)
- This is called “Taakhhur” (delay)
Activities During These Days
- Pray five daily prayers in your tent
- Engage in dhikr and worship
- Rest and reflect on your journey
- Spend quality time with fellow pilgrims
- Continue making dua
Important Notes
- The stoning area can be extremely crowded—be patient and gentle
- Never push or harm others to get closer
- If unable to stone personally, you may appoint someone
- Women may stone at night when it’s less crowded
- The goal is to hit the target area—precision isn’t required
Step 9: Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wada)
Before leaving Makkah to return home, every pilgrim must perform the Farewell Tawaf. This is your final ritual of Hajj.
When to Perform
- After completing all Hajj rites
- Immediately before your departure from Makkah
- This should be the last thing you do in Makkah
How to Perform
- Perform Tawaf exactly as before (7 circuits around the Kaaba)
- Pray two rak’ahs after Tawaf
- Make dua at Multazam (the area between the Black Stone and the door of the Kaaba) if possible
- Drink Zamzam water
- Take a final look at the Kaaba
Who Is Exempt
- Menstruating women
- Women in post-natal bleeding
- These women should leave Makkah without performing the Farewell Tawaf
After Farewell Tawaf
- Proceed directly to your departure point
- Do not engage in shopping or other activities after this Tawaf
- If you need to buy something small, it’s permissible, but don’t linger
Step 10: Visiting Madinah (Optional but Highly Recommended)
While not part of Hajj, most pilgrims visit Madinah either before or after Hajj to visit the Prophet’s Mosque and pay respects at his grave.
The Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi)
Entering the Mosque:
- Enter with your right foot
- Recite the dua for entering a mosque
- Pray two rak’ahs of Tahiyyat al-Masjid (greeting the mosque)
Visiting the Rawdah:
- The Rawdah is the area between the Prophet’s pulpit and his grave
- It’s one of the gardens of Paradise
- Try to pray there if possible (it can be very crowded)
Visiting the Prophet’s Grave:
- Stand respectfully before the grave
- Send salutations: “As-salamu alayka ya Rasulullah” (Peace be upon you, O Messenger of Allah)
- Keep your voice low and be brief
- Do not make dua TO the Prophet—make dua to Allah
- Visit the graves of Abu Bakr and Umar (may Allah be pleased with them)
Other Significant Sites in Madinah
Masjid Quba:
- The first mosque built in Islam
- Pray two rak’ahs here
- The Prophet (peace be upon him) said praying here is like performing Umrah
Uhud Mountain:
- Site of the Battle of Uhud
- Visit the martyrs’ cemetery
- Make dua for the martyrs
Jannat al-Baqi:
- The cemetery where many companions are buried
- Visit and send salutations to the believers there
Duration in Madinah
- Many scholars recommend staying for at least eight days
- Pray at least 40 consecutive prayers in the Prophet’s Mosque if possible
- Spend time in worship and reflection
After Hajj: Returning Home
Spiritual Maintenance
The acceptance of Hajj is shown through your improved character and behavior. Maintain the spiritual high by:
Continuing good deeds:
- Establish regular prayers on time
- Read Quran daily
- Make frequent dhikr
- Give charity regularly
- Maintain good character and manners
Avoiding sins:
- Stay away from major and minor sins
- Guard your tongue from gossip and slander
- Lower your gaze
- Be honest and trustworthy
Serving others:
- Share your knowledge of Hajj with others
- Help others prepare for their pilgrimage
- Be patient and kind with family and community
- Engage in community service
Signs of Accepted Hajj
The scholars mention that signs of an accepted Hajj include:
- Increased love for worship
- Decreased desire for sin
- Improved character and patience
- Greater humility and gratitude
- Stronger connection with Allah
- Increased concern for the Hereafter
Sharing Your Experience
- Share beneficial knowledge about Hajj with others
- Inspire others to make the journey
- Help first-time pilgrims with practical advice
- Make dua that Allah grants Hajj to those who haven’t yet gone
Essential Duas for Hajj
General Supplications
When seeing the Kaaba: “Allahumma zid hadhal-bayta tashreefan wa ta’dhiman wa takrimaa wa mahabatan, wa zid man sharrafahu wa ‘adhdhamahu mimman hajjahu awi’tamarahu tashreefan wa ta’dhiman wa takrimaa wa birra.”
During Tawaf (between Yemeni Corner and Black Stone): “Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina ‘adhaban-nar.” (Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.)
On Safa and Marwa: “La ilaha illa Allahu wahdahu la shareeka lah, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu wa huwa ‘ala kulli shay’in qadeer. La ilaha illa Allahu wahdahu, anjaza wa’dahu, wa nasara ‘abdahu, wa hazamal-ahzaba wahdah.”
On the Day of Arafah: Make dua in your own language for everything you need in this life and the next. This is the best time for dua.
When stoning the Jamarat: “Allahu Akbar” (with each throw)
Making Dua
- Make dua in your own language—Allah understands all languages
- Be sincere and humble
- Ask for forgiveness, guidance, and blessings
- Pray for yourself, your family, and all Muslims
- Don’t restrict yourself to memorized duas only
Important Reminders
Stay Connected with Your Group
- Always keep your group leader’s contact information
- Know your tent/hotel location and number
- Carry identification at all times
- Stay within sight of your group in crowded areas
Health and Safety
- Stay hydrated—drink water constantly
- Protect yourself from the sun (umbrella, hat for non-Ihram times)
- Wear comfortable, supportive shoes
- Rest when needed—pace yourself
- Seek medical attention if feeling unwell
- Keep emergency numbers accessible
Patience and Good Character
- The crowds can be overwhelming—stay patient
- Help others, especially the elderly and disabled
- Don’t push or shove
- Forgive others who may accidentally bump into you
- Remember, everyone is a guest of Allah
Technology and Communication
- Download helpful apps (Hajj guides, prayer times, Qibla finder)
- Keep your phone charged
- Have offline maps available
- Set up international calling/data if needed
- Take photos to remember (but don’t let it distract from worship)
Types of Hajj
There are three types of Hajj. Most pilgrims perform Hajj al-Tamattu’, which this guide primarily describes:
1. Hajj al-Tamattu’ (Most Common)
- Perform Umrah first upon arrival (Tawaf and Sa’i)
- Exit Ihram and wear regular clothes
- Re-enter Ihram on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah for Hajj
- Must offer a sacrifice
- This is the easiest and most recommended type
2. Hajj al-Qiran
- Enter Ihram with intention for both Hajj and Umrah
- Perform Tawaf and Sa’i upon arrival
- Remain in Ihram until completing all Hajj rites
- Must offer a sacrifice
3. Hajj al-Ifrad
- Enter Ihram with intention for Hajj only
- Remain in Ihram until completing all Hajj rites
- Perform Tawaf and Sa’i for Hajj only
- No sacrifice required
- This type is less common for international pilgrims
Conclusion: The Journey of a Lifetime
Hajj is a transformative experience that goes beyond the physical rituals. It’s a journey of the heart, a renewal of faith, and a return to spiritual purity. As you complete each step, remember that millions of believers before you have walked the same path, and millions will follow.
May Allah accept your Hajj, forgive your sins, and grant you a blessed return. May the lessons and blessings of Hajj remain with you throughout your life.
Taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum (May Allah accept from us and from you)
Quick Reference: Hajj at a Glance
Day-by-Day Summary
| Date | Day | Location | Key Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Before 8th | Arrival | Makkah | Ihram, Tawaf al-Qudum, Sa’i |
| 8th Dhul Hijjah | Tarwiyah | Mina | Enter Ihram (if Tamattu’), proceed to Mina, 5 prayers |
| 9th Dhul Hijjah | Arafah | Arafah → Muzdalifah | Standing at Arafah (most important day), move to Muzdalifah after sunset |
| 10th Dhul Hijjah | Eid/Sacrifice | Mina → Makkah → Mina | Stone Jamarat al-Aqabah, sacrifice, hair removal, Tawaf al-Ifadah |
| 11th Dhul Hijjah | Tashreeq | Mina | Stone all 3 Jamarat (21 pebbles) |
| 12th Dhul Hijjah | Tashreeq | Mina | Stone all 3 Jamarat (21 pebbles), may leave after |
| 13th Dhul Hijjah | Tashreeq (optional) | Mina | If stayed past sunset on 12th, stone all 3 Jamarat |
| Before departure | Farewell | Makkah | Tawaf al-Wada (Farewell Tawaf) |
Essential Checklist
Before Hajj:
- [ ] Valid passport and visa
- [ ] Vaccinations completed and documented
- [ ] Hajj package booked with licensed provider
- [ ] Medications and first aid supplies
- [ ] Ihram garments
- [ ] Comfortable walking shoes
- [ ] Money belt or secure bag
- [ ] Emergency contact information
- [ ] Hajj guide and dua book
Documents to Carry:
- [ ] Passport
- [ ] Hajj permit
- [ ] Vaccination certificates
- [ ] Hotel/tent location details
- [ ] Group leader contact information
- [ ] Emergency contacts
- [ ] Health insurance information
- [ ] Copies of all important documents
During Hajj:
- [ ] Maintain state of Ihram and its restrictions
- [ ] Complete all mandatory rituals
- [ ] Stay hydrated and healthy
- [ ] Keep track of your group
- [ ] Be patient and kind to others
- [ ] Focus on worship and spirituality
- [ ] Make abundant dua
- [ ] Protect your belongings
May your Hajj be accepted, and may Allah grant you His mercy, forgiveness, and countless blessings. Ameen.