10 Common Umrah Mistakes First-Time Pilgrims Must Avoid in 2025

The journey of Umrah is a profoundly spiritual experience, often called the "minor pilgrimage." While the rituals are simpler than Hajj, the sheer awe, crowds, and physical demands of Makkah and Madinah can lead first-time pilgrims to make avoidable mistakes—both logistical and ritualistic. To help ensure your worship is valid, sincere, and stress-free, here are the most common mistakes first-time pilgrims must avoid. RITUAL & SPIRITUAL MISTAKES (IBADAH) Not Entering the State of Ihram at the Miqat (The Boundary) Many pilgrims wrongly assume they can assume Ihram (the sacred state) once they reach their hotel in Makkah. The mistake is crossing the Miqat (the designated boundary zone for Makkah) without having the Niyyah (intention) for Umrah and donning the Ihram garments. The fix is to make your intention and wear your Ihram garments before crossing the Miqat, usually while on the flight. If you miss it, you incur a serious penalty (Damm—a sacrifice). Shouting Du'as in Unison During Tawaf The atmosphere around the Kaaba can be overwhelming, and many join groups that chant prayers loudly. The mistake is following a leader who recites Du'as loudly for the whole group to repeat in unison. This is not from the Sunnah and often disrupts the concentration of other pilgrims. The fix is that Tawaf is a personal, private conversation with Allah. Recite your Du'as quietly to yourself. Losing Count During Tawaf and Sa'i With the crowds and the spiritual intensity, it is easy to get distracted. The mistake is completing six circuits instead of seven for Tawaf, or six laps instead of seven for Sa'i, which can invalidate the entire ritual. The fix is to use a simple tracking method. A popular method is to use a digital counter app or a simple rubber band counter on your wrist, moving one band after each completed circuit. Touching or Wiping the Walls of the Kaaba (or Maqam Ibrahim) Due to cultural practice, many believe touching the Kaaba or its surrounding structures brings special blessings. The mistake is touching, wiping hands over, or "distance kissing" the walls of the Kaaba, its cover (Kiswa), or the Maqam Ibrahim. These areas are often perfumed, which is strictly prohibited while in the state of Ihram. The fix is to remember there is no religious basis for seeking blessings this way. Only the Hajr al-Aswad and the Rukn al-Yamani should be touched or gestured towards. Performing Multiple Umrahs in a Single Trip Many pilgrims feel the urge to perform multiple Umrahs on consecutive days by traveling back to Masjid Aisha (Taneem) to make a new Niyyah. The mistake is believing that performing multiple Umrahs is rewarded more than focusing on other forms of worship. The fix is to focus on quality, not quantity. Instead, spend the extra time performing Nafl Tawaf (voluntary circumambulation), reciting the Quran, or simply sitting in prayer and contemplation at Masjid al-Haram. PRACTICAL & LOGISTICAL MISTAKES (DUNYA) These errors will not invalidate your Umrah but will make the entire experience physically stressful and exhausting. Not Preparing for the Physical Demand Umrah is physically demanding, requiring up to 6–10 kilometers of walking for Tawaf and Sa'i alone, often in intense heat. The mistake is underestimating the effort, which leads to exhaustion and dehydration. The fix is to prepare your body by walking regularly for a few weeks before your trip. Pack comfortable walking shoes that have already been "broken in" (never wear new shoes!). Overpacking or Underpacking Essentials Luggage is cumbersome in crowded areas, but forgetting key items can ruin your trip. The mistake is overpacking heavy suitcases or forgetting essentials like unscented products (prohibited in Ihram) or necessary medication. The fix is to pack light, focusing on essentials: two sets of Ihram (for men), comfortable loose clothing, a refillable water bottle, a small first-aid kit, and all your prescription medications. Neglecting Hydration and Sun Protection The heat in Saudi Arabia, especially during daylight hours, can cause severe dehydration and sunstroke. The mistake is not carrying water during Tawaf and Sa'i and failing to use sun protection. The fix is to always carry a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of Zamzam water. Use an umbrella for shade, and apply unscented sunscreen if you are not in the state of Ihram. Failing to Secure Permits in Advance (Rawdah) Visiting the Rawdah (the area between the Prophet's grave and pulpit) in Madinah is a highlight, but access is now strictly regulated. The mistake is arriving at Masjid an-Nabawi hoping to spontaneously visit the Rawdah. You will be turned away without an appointment. The fix is to download and use the Nusuk app to book your slot for the Rawdah well in advance of your travel date. Slots are limited and mandatory for entry. Focusing on Sightseeing and Shopping Over Ibadah The commercialism surrounding the Haram can be distracting. The mistake is spending more time in the air-conditioned malls (like Abraj Al Bait) or Souqs than in the sacred mosques. The fix is to remember the Niyyah (intention) of your trip. Allocate specific time slots each day purely for Ibadah (worship) in the Haram. Save your souvenir shopping for Madinah or Jeddah, where prices are often better. Your Journey Begins with Knowledge By preparing for both the spiritual actions and the practical realities, you can avoid these common mistakes and dedicate yourself fully to worship. Green Umrah Travels provides experienced guides who are well-versed in all these matters, ensuring your rituals are performed correctly and your focus remains entirely on your spiritual journey.