ISLAMABAD, April 2026: As Hajj 2026 approaches, millions of Muslims preparing for the pilgrimage to Makkah are seeking clear guidance on how to perform Hajj step by step. The annual pilgrimage follows a defined sequence of rituals carried out over specific days, and understanding each stage is essential to ensure the Hajj is valid and complete.
Hajj takes place in Makkah and nearby locations including Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah, with the journey beginning in the state of Ihram and concluding with the farewell Tawaf. Each step is time-bound and interconnected, making preparation critical for first-time pilgrims.
Step 1: Entering Ihram before Miqat
Pilgrims enter Ihram at designated boundaries (Miqat) before arriving in Makkah. This includes making the intention (niyyah) and reciting the Talbiyah, formally beginning the pilgrimage.
Step 2: Tawaf at Masjid al-Haram
After reaching Makkah, pilgrims perform Tawaf by circling the Kaaba seven times. This ritual marks the start of the core acts of worship within Masjid al-Haram.
Step 3: Sa’i between Safa and Marwah
Pilgrims walk seven times between Safa and Marwah, commemorating the historical struggle of Hajra (AS).
Step 4: Mina (8th Dhul Hijjah)
On the Day of Tarwiyah, pilgrims travel to Mina, where they spend the day and night in prayer and preparation for the main rites.
Step 5: Arafat (9th Dhul Hijjah) — the central ritual
Pilgrims gather at the plains of Arafat, the most critical stage of Hajj. Standing at Arafat (Wuquf) is essential for the validity of Hajj.
Step 6: Muzdalifah (night of 9th Dhul Hijjah)
After sunset, pilgrims move to Muzdalifah, collect pebbles for Rami and spend the night under the open sky.
Step 7: Rami, sacrifice and hair trimming (10th Dhul Hijjah)
Pilgrims return to Mina to perform Rami (stoning of the devil), followed by animal sacrifice. Men shave or trim their heads, while women trim a small portion of hair.
Step 8: Tawaf al-Ifadah in Makkah
Pilgrims return to Makkah to perform Tawaf al-Ifadah, a key pillar of Hajj required for its completion.
Step 9: Additional days in Mina
Pilgrims stay in Mina for two or three days, continuing the Rami ritual at the three pillars.
Step 10: Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wida)
Before leaving Makkah, pilgrims perform the farewell Tawaf, marking the conclusion of Hajj.
Why this step-by-step understanding matters
Each stage of Hajj is linked to specific timings and conditions. Missing or incorrectly performing a required act can affect the validity of the pilgrimage, making preparation and clarity essential for all pilgrims.
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