How to Perform Hajj? Complete Step-by-Step Hajj Guide for UK Pilgrims

Hajj is a fifth pillar of Islam that Muslims recognize as a major pilgrimage. It's a highly rewarding act of worship but becomes obligatory to Muslims who are able to afford the Hajj journey both financially and physically. From the UK, thousands of pilgrims plan their Hajj pilgrimages every year to fulfill their religious duty. And if you are also among these pilgrims this year, how to perform Hajj should be your first concern. This is because Hajj has to be performed exactly as per the Sunnah method explained below.

Hajj Rituals Overview: Complete Hajj Step-by-Step Timeline

Hajj has a number of rituals to perform in a sequence on their fixed time. And skipping any of these will totally invalidate the entire Hajj journey. So, refer to the following sequence to make your Hajj journey acceptable, starting with the given steps:

Ritual	Place	When
Ihram	Miqat	Before entering Makkah
Tawaf al-Qudum	Ka'bah	On arrival
Sa'i	Safa–Marwah	After Tawaf
Stay at Mina	Mina	8 Dhul-Hijjah
Wuquf	Arafat	9 Dhul-Hijjah
Muzdalifah	Muzdalifah	Night of 9 Dhul-Hijjah
Rami (Day 1)	Jamarat al-Aqabah	10 Dhul-Hijjah
Sacrifice (Hady)	Mina	10 Dhul-Hijjah
Shaving/Trimming	Mina	10 Dhul-Hijjah
Tawaf al-Ifadah	Ka'bah	10–12 Dhul-Hijjah
Sa'i	Safa–Marwah	After Ifadah
Rami (Days 2–3)	Jamarat	11–13 Dhul-Hijjah
Tawaf al-Wada	Ka'bah	Before departure

Step 1: Entering the State of Ihram for Hajj

Ihram is a state of purity that pilgrims have to enter before performing Hajj and Umrah. It starts when pilgrims make a niyyah of performing Umrah or Hajj before crossing Miqat. Also, remember that Ihram state doesn't begin with wearing Ihram clothes. 

Physical Preparations Before Wearing Ihram

Since Ihram is a state of purity, pilgrims have to be pure physically too before wearing Ihram clothes and making niyyah for pilgrimage. So, pilgrims can perform major grooming activities before entering Ihram since most of these will become prohibited afterward. The simple steps to follow can be:

• Performing Ghusl.
• Trimming Hair and Nails.
• Applying Perfume Before Wearing Ihram.

Ihram Clothing Rules for Men and Women

There are specific guidelines for Ihram clothes for both men and women. For example:

• Ihram Clothing for Men: Men have to wear two white, unstitched sheets known as Izar and Rida. Izar is a lower sheet to cover waist and the lower body while Rida is an upper sheet to cover the upper body and drape over shoulders.
• Ihram Clothing for Women: Women have to wear any modest clothing that fully covers the body except the face and hands. Women should avoid wearing tight or transparent Ihram clothes.

Where Do Pilgrims Enter Ihram? Understanding Miqat

Pilgrims have to enter the Ihram state before crossing Miqat. Miqat is a fixed location designated for pilgrims traveling from different directions. Crossing Miqat without entering the Ihram state will totally invalidate the pilgrimage whether it's Umrah or Hajj. There are five Miqat locations, each specific for pilgrims traveling from different regions:

Miqat	Location	For Pilgrims Coming From
Dhul-Hulayfah (Abyar Ali)	Near Madinah	Madinah & north
Al-Juhfah (Rabigh)	Near Rabigh	Syria, Egypt & North Africa
Qarn al-Manazil (As-Sayl)	East of Makkah	Najd & GCC east
Yalamlam (As-Sa'diyyah)	South of Makkah	Yemen & south
Dhat 'Irq	Northeast of Makkah	Iraq & northeast

Which Miqat Applies to UK Pilgrims Traveling by Air?

Pilgrims traveling from the United Kingdom normally cross the Miqat of Al-Juhfah (Rabigh) during their flight. Airlines ensure  announcing when the aircraft is about to approach Miqat so that pilgrims can make Niyyah before crossing it. And it's ideal to wear Ihram clothes at the airport before boarding a flight. After boarding the flight, make Niyyah of performing the type of Hajj you are going to perform and recite Talbiyah.

Making Niyyah for Different Types of Hajj

There are three types of Hajj and pilgrims can make Niyyah for any one based on their choice and convenience. These are Hajj al-Tamattu', Hajj al-Qiran and Hajj al-Ifrad.

Hajj al-Tamattu

Hajj al-Tamattu' is a type of Hajj in which pilgrims perform Umrah and Hajj in one journey by entering into the Ihram state for both Umrah and Hajj separately. So, if you are going to perform Hajj al-Tamattu', make Niyyah of performing Umrah first as part of Hajj al-Tamattu' before crossing Miqat.

Hajj al-Qiran

Hajj al-Qiran is a type of Hajj in which pilgrims perform Umrah and Hajj in one journey in one Ihram. So, if you are intending to perform Hajj al-Qiran, make Niyyah for performing Hajj and Umrah together before crossing Miqat in the aircraft.

Hajj al-Ifrad

Hajj al-Ifrad is a type of Hajj in which pilgrims don't perform Umrah but only perform Hajj rituals starting on 8th Dhul Hijjah. So, if you're planning to perform Hajj al-Ifrad, then make Niyyah for only Hajj before crossing Miqat.

Feature	Hajj al-Tamattu'	Hajj al-Qiran	Hajj al-Ifrad
Meaning	Umrah followed by Hajj	Umrah and Hajj together	Hajj only
Number of Ihram	Two	One	One
Intention (Niyyah)	Separate for Umrah and Hajj	Combined for Umrah and Hajj	Hajj only
Umrah Performed	Yes	Yes	No
Exit Ihram Before Hajj	Yes	No	No
Re-enter Ihram on 8th Dhul Hijjah	Yes	No	No
Remain in Ihram Until 10th Dhul Hijjah	No	Yes	Yes
Hady (Sacrifice)	Obligatory	Obligatory	Not obligatory
Best Suited For	Pilgrims from outside Makkah	Those bringing sacrificial animals	Residents of Makkah or nearby
Most Common Today	Yes	Less common	Less common

Reciting Talbiyah During Hajj

Talbiyah is the official declaration that pilgrims recite regularly as a response to a call for Hajj from Allah. The Holy Prophet used to say:

لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ، لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ

Transliteration: Labbayka Allahumma labbayk. Labbayka la sharika laka labbayk. Innal hamda wan nimata laka wal mulk. La sharika lak.

Translation: Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am. You have no partner. Here I am. Indeed, all praise, every blessing, and all sovereignty belong to You. You have no partner.

Keep reciting Talbiyah after making Niyyah whenever you remember until reaching in front of Kaabah.

Prohibitions During Ihram

After making Niyyah for Hajj, there are certain activities which become prohibited during the Ihram state to perform for pilgrims. And ignoring these prohibitions can invalidate the entire pilgrimage. These prohibitions include:

• Cutting hair and nails.
• Applying fragrance or using scented products.
• Engaging in marital relations.
• Hunting land animals.
• Damaging natural vegetation in the Haram.

Step 2: Arriving in Makkah and Entering Masjid al-Haram

Makkah is a sacred land in Islam associated with the history of Islam. So, maintain humility, gratitude and respect while arriving in Makkah. 

Entering Masjid al-Haram

After arriving in Makkah and settling your belongings, it's time to visit Masjid al-Haram to begin the rites of Umrah or Hajj. Our Holy Prophet used to make Wudu before entering Mosque and recite this Dua:

بِسْمِ اللهِ، وَالصَّلَاةُ وَالسَّلَامُ عَلَى رَسُولِ اللهِ، اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ رَحْمَتِكَ

Transliteration: Bismillah, was salatu was salamu ala Rasulillah. Allahumma iftah li abwaba rahmatik.

Translation: In the name of Allah. May peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah. O Allah, open for me the doors of Your mercy.

First Sight of the Kaabah

The first sight of Kaabah is when Dua's are accepted. So, take a pause and make personal Dua's for yourself and your loved ones for this life and hereafter as well. Also, ask Allah for ease throughout your pilgrimage and grant you acceptance.

Step 3: Performing Tawaf During Hajj

Tawaf is an important ritual of Hajj and Umrah in which pilgrims have to complete seven circuits around the Kaabah in anticlockwise direction.

Tawaf al-Qudum vs Tawaf al-Umrah

First Tawaf after arrival in Makkah will count as Tawaf al-Umrah for pilgrims performing Hajj al-Tamattu'. And for pilgrims performing Hajj al-Ifrad or Hajj al-Qiran, this first Tawaf will count as Tawaf al-Qudum (Arrival Tawaf).

Conditions to Complete Tawaf Correctly

Tawaf is a significant act of worship and thus also has specific conditions to meet for all pilgrims. For example, pilgrims have to fulfill these prerequisites to start Tawaf:

• Performing Wudu and being in state of purity. 
• Ensuring that both the body and Ihram clothes are free from impurities. 
• Performing Idtiba (leaving the right shoulder uncovered) for men.
• Covering the whole body except hand, feet and face for women.

How to Start Tawaf From Hajar al-Aswad

Tawaf starts in front of Hajar al-aswad (Black stone). So, position yourself in line with Hajar al-aswad and begin walking by doing Istilam (touching, kissing or raising hand from distance) while reciting:

بِسْمِ اللهِ، اللهُ أَكْبَرُ

Transliteration: Bismillah, Allahu Akbar.

Translation: In the name of Allah. Allah is the Greatest.

After this, begin walking to complete the first circuit.

What to Recite During Tawaf?

There is no specific Dua or supplication to recite while walking around the Kaabah. So, pilgrims can recite any Sunnah or Quranic Dua's during seven circuits of Tawaf. The Yemeni corner is located at southwestern side of Kaabah which is the corner just before the corner having Hajar al-aswad. And there is a Sunnah Dua to recite after reaching Rukn al-Yemeni until reaching in front of Hajar al-aswad which is:

رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ

Transliteration: Rabbana atina fid dunya hasanah wa fil akhirati hasanah wa qina adhaban nar.

Translation: Our Lord, grant us goodness in this world, goodness in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.

Completing Seven Circuits of Tawaf

After reaching Hajar al-aswad again, the first circuit of Tawaf gets completed. So, start the second circuit by doing Istilam in a similar way as earlier. Remember the exact count of circuits and complete each circuit in a similar way. This way, Tawaf ends in front of Hajar al-aswad. So, end it by doing Istilam for the eighth time.

Step 4: Offering Two Rak'ahs at Maqam Ibrahim

Maqam e Ibrahim is a stone covered with a golden dome upon which Hazrat Ibrahim stood while building the Kaabah with his son Isma'il. Pilgrims have to offer two rak'ah Salah after completing Tawaf near Maqam e Ibrahim. However, Maqam e Ibrahim remains crowded during Hajj days. So, find any available place nearby to offer Salah just like any other voluntary prayer.

Step 5: Drinking Zamzam Water After Tawaf

Drinking Zamzam is a Sunnah act while performing Umrah or Hajj rituals. So, find any Zamzam station nearby and drink until satisfied. 

Step 6: Performing Sa'i Between Safa and Marwah

Sa'i is an important ritual of both Umrah and Hajj which is an act of completing seven laps between Safa and Marwa hills. This whole act revives Muslims about the level of trust and faith Hazrat Hajar had when started running for the search of water for Hazrat Isma'il.

How to Start Sa'i From Safa

Sa'i starts at Safa hill, so proceed to Mas'a area after completing Tawaf and offering two rak'ah Salah. 

Duas and Dhikr During Sa'i

إِنَّ الصَّفَا وَالْمَرْوَةَ مِن شَعَائِرِ اللَّهِ

Transliteration: Innas-safa wal-Marwata min sha'a'irillah.

Translation: Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah.

After this, recite the following Sunnah Dua while standing at Safa:

أَبْدَأُ بِمَا بَدَأَ اللَّهُ بِهِ

Transliteration: Abda'u bima bada'Allahu bih.

Translation: I begin with what Allah began with.

Our Holy Prophet also used to start Sa'i with the following remembrance.

اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ

لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ

لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ، أَنْجَزَ وَعْدَهُ، وَنَصَرَ عَبْدَهُ، وَهَزَمَ الْأَحْزَابَ وَحْدَهُ

Transliteration: Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la sharika lah, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu wa huwa 'ala kulli shay'in qadir. La ilaha illallahu wahdah, anjaza wa'dah, wa nasara 'abdah, wa hazamal-ahzaba wahdah.

Translation: Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest. There is no god except Allah alone. He has no partner. His is the kingdom and all praise. He has power over everything. There is no god except Allah alone. He fulfilled His promise, helped His servant, and defeated the confederates by Himself.

With this, you can start Sa'i or can also make any personal Dua. After completing the supplications on Safa, walk towards Marwah while making dhikar and reciting supplications of your choice. There are not any authentic Dua's to recite while walking between Safa and Marwa.

Raml for Men Between Safa and Marwah

Between Safa and Marwa, there is a green light area where men have to perform Raml (walking briskly with short steps). However, women have to walk at a normal pace. After reaching Marwa, the first lap of Sa'i will be completed. And the second lap will start from Marwa to Safa. 

Completing Seven Rounds of Sa'i

Similar to the first lap of Sa'i, complete all the seventh laps from Safa to Marwa and from Marwa to Safa while making dhikar. The seventh lap will be completed at Marwa at which you can stop for a while and make Dua for acceptance.

Step 7: Performing Halq or Taqsir After Umrah (For Hajj Tamattu')

Pilgrims performing Hajj al-Tamattu' have to perform Halq or Taqsir after completing Sa'i. However, pilgrims with the intention of performing Hajj al-Ifrad or Hajj al-Qiran don't have to exit the Ihram state but continue the rituals of Hajj.

What is Halq?

Halq is an act of shaving the entire head as an important ritual of Hajj and Umrah to exit the Ihram state. Halq is recommended for men and permissible for men only. To perform Halq, pilgrims have to shave their entire head, not any part of the head.

What is Taqsir?

Taqsir is an act of trimming the ends of hair to exit the Ihram state. And it's the only option for women as part of an Umrah and Hajj ritual. Though men can also perform Taqsir, it's not recommended in normal conditions. To perform Taqsir, men have to trim the hair from the entire head, not from any part of the head. And for women, it's important to trim the hair ends up to the length of a fingertip.

Leaving the First Ihram (Tahallul)

After shaving or trimming, pilgrims performing Hajj al-Tamattu' leave the state of Ihram. This is known as Tahallul (release from Ihram). So, all the restrictions of Ihram don't apply after exiting the first Ihram until pilgrims enter Ihram again on 8th Dhul Hijjah.

Step 8: Beginning the Main Days of Hajj (8th Dhul Hijjah)

8th Dhul Hijjah is an official beginning of Hajj days which aims to make pilgrims prepared for the most important days of Hajj journey both physically and spiritually. Pilgrims also recognize this day as Yawm al-Tarwiyah. Entering into the state of ihram and traveling to Mina are the main rituals to perform on 8th Dhul Hijjah.

Entering into the state of Ihram

Pilgrims have to enter the state of Ihram on 8th Dhul Hijjah before traveling to Mina. However, the niyyah they have to make brings the difference among pilgrims based on the type of Hajj they are going to perform. For example:

• Pilgrims who intend to perform Hajj al-Ifrad: Have to enter into the state of Ihram at Miqat.
• Pilgrims who intend to perform Hajj al-Tamattu': Have to enter into the state of Ihram again (for Hajj this time) without traveling to Miqat.

However, pilgrims who intend to perform Hajj al-Qiran already remain in the state of Ihram until the end of Hajj days. So, they don't need to enter the Ihram state again.

Entering Ihram Again for Hajj

The entire process of entering Ihram remains the same every time whether you are going to perform Umrah or Hajj. So, follow these quick steps:

• Performing ghusl before wearing ihram clothes.
• Trimming the nails and shaving unwanted body hair.
• Applying fragrance to the body before entering Ihram.
• Wearing Ihram clothes.

Making Niyyah and Reciting Talbiyah

Making niyyah for Hajj is the step that makes all the prohibitions of Ihram state apply on pilgrims and marks the beginning of Hajj rituals. Niyyah is the state of heart, so make your inner self focused on the Hajj journey while saying:
اللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ حَجًّا

Transliteration: Allahumma labbayka Hajjan.

Translation: O Allah, I answer Your call to perform Hajj.

Renewing the Talbiyah

Reciting Talbiyah is an important step after making an intention for Hajj. It's a declaration from the side of pilgrims that they are obeying the commands of Allah. So, keep reciting Talbiyah. Men have to recite it louder while women have to recite politely:

لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ، لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ

Transliteration: Labbayka Allahumma labbayk. Labbayka la sharika laka labbayk. Innal hamda wan-ni'mata laka wal-mulk. La sharika lak.

Translation: Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am. You have no partner. Here I am. All praise, every blessing, and all sovereignty belong to You. You have no partner.

Travelling From Makkah to Mina

After entering Ihram, traveling to Mina is the next step which is approximately 8 kilometres (5 miles) far from Makkah. Pilgrims can travel by any means either by bus, train or walking while reciting Talbiyah and making personal supplications.

Spending the Day and Night in Mina

After reaching Mina, pilgrims have to spend the entire day and night of 8th Dhul Hijjah there. During Hajj days, Mina has a complete setup of tents to accommodate pilgrims. Get benefit from this day to prepare yourself mentally and spiritually for the Day of Arafah.

Sunnahs of Yawm al-Tarwiyah (8th Dhul Hijjah)

The 8th Dhul Hijjah is a day of preparation. So, spend this day while:

• Reciting Talbiyah 
• Making Dhikr
• Reciting the Quran
• Making personal supplications 
• Asking Allah for ease throughout the Hajj days
• Asking Allah for acceptance of Hajj 

Reciting:

رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ

Transliteration: Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina 'adhaban-nar.

Translation: Our Lord, grant us good in this world, good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.

Spending the Night in Mina

Spending the night of 9th Dhul Hijjah in Mina is also important for Hajj pilgrims. And for some scholars, it's an important obligation of Hajj. Spend this night to take adequate rest and prepare yourself both mentally and physically for the Day of Arafah. 

Step 9: Day of Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah) – The Most Important Day of Hajj

9th Dhul Hijjah is the most important day for Hajj pilgrims on which pilgrims have to consider staying (Wuquf) at Arafat. There, this day is also known as the day of Arafah. This involves traveling to Arafat and staying there until sunset. Arafah is a designated area located about 20 kilometers southeast of Masjid al-Haram.

Travelling From Mina to Arafat

Hajj pilgrims have to travel from Mina to the mount of Arafat because performing Wuquf at Arafat is the main obligation of Hajj and missing this will totally invalidate the entire Hajj.

 The Prophet ﷺ said that:

 "Hajj is Arafah."

So, leave Mina after sunrise on 9th of Dhul Hijjah while continuously reciting Talbiyah.

What is Wuquf at Arafat?

Wuquf literally means "standing." And in terms of Hajj rituals, it's a practice of staying anywhere inside the plain of Arafat or the boundaries of Arafat. There are important landmarks to designate the boundaries of Arafat like:

• Jabal al-Rahmah (Mount of Mercy).
• Masjid Namirah (partly inside Arafat).
• Open plains surrounding the mountain.

So, confirm mindfully that your tent remains inside the boundaries of Arafat because staying outside Arafat does not fulfill Wuquf.

Timing of Wuquf at Arafat

The time for Wuquf begins after the sun passes its highest point (after Dhuhr begins) on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah and continues until the Fajr of 10th Dhul Hijjah. However, the Sunnah is to remain at Arafat until sunset.

Recommended Worship During Arafah

Wuquf at Arafah is the time of acceptance during which pilgrims can get closer to Allah. So, spend this time mindfully while doing worshipped acts other than offering obligation prayers like:

• Making Sunnah and personal Dua's.
• Seeking forgiveness and repenting.
• Making dhikar.
• Reciting the Quran.
• Asking Allah for acceptance and ease.

Khutbah of Arafah

Before Dhuhr, the Imam delivers the Khutbah of Arafah at Masjid Namirah. This sermon reminds pilgrims about Tawhid (the Oneness of Allah), Taqwa, justice, rights of others, brotherhood among Muslims and obedience to Allah. So, listening to this sermon is also recommended for Hajj pilgrims.

Step 10: Travelling to Muzdalifah After Arafah

After sunset, pilgrims have to leave Arafat and travel to Muzdalifah (not back to Mina). Similar to Mina, pilgrims have to spend the night of 10th Dhul Hijjah at Muzdalifah. This ritual involves leaving Arafat, traveling to Muzdalifah, spending night at Muzdalifah and collecting pebbles for Rami. 

Leaving Arafat After Sunset

The duration of Wuquf at Arafat lasts till the sunset. And leaving Arafat before sunset without any valid reason is not permissible; that can also require compensation (dam) to make your Hajj valid. So, leave the plain of Arafat after sunset calmly in an order. 

Also, keep reciting Talbiyah throughout your journey to remember Allah.

Arriving at Muzdalifah

Muzdalifah is an open area located between Arafah and Mina. And it's the place where pilgrims have to spend the night after leaving Arafah.

Combining Maghrib and Isha Prayers

After arriving at Muzdalifah, it's the Sunnah to combine both the Maghrib and Isha prayers with no Sunnah prayers to perform between them.

Spending the Night at Muzdalifah

Spending the night of 10th Dhul Hijjah at Muzdalifah is an important ritual of Hajj, so avoid missing it. And it's ideal to leave Muzdalifah after praying Fajr in an open area.

Collecting Pebbles for Rami

Muzdalifah is a place from where pilgrims have to collect pebbles to complete the stinking ritual (Rami) in Mina. 

Size of the Pebbles

Pilgrims should avoid collecting large stones for this ritual. The ideal size of pebbles is about the size of chickpea or the tip of a fingertip. 

How Many Pebbles to Collect?

Pilgrims have to perform Rami for at least three days which require pebbles in different quantities. For example, 

• 7 pebbles for Jamrat al-Aqabah on the 10th.
• 21 pebbles on the 11th.
• 21 pebbles on the 12th.
• 21 pebbles on the 13th if staying.

A practical recommendation is to collect around 70 small pebbles. You can also collect some extra pebbles in case of loss or to share with fellows if required. 

Leaving Muzdalifah for Mina

Pilgrims have to leave Muzdalifah before sunrise and travel toward Mina while continuing the Talbiyah. The destination is Jamrat al-Aqabah, where you have to perform the first stoning ritual of Hajj.

Step 11: Day of Sacrifice (10th Dhul Hijjah)

10th Dhul Hijjah is the main day of Hajj which is also known as Yawm an-Nahr (Day of Sacrifice). On this day, pilgrims have to complete rituals like stoning Jamrat al-Aqabah, offering the Hady (sacrificing animal), Halq or Taqsir and Tawaf al-Ifadah. So, the sequence will remain as below:

Returning to Mina From Muzdalifah

After spending the night of 10th Dhul Hijjah at Muzdalifah, pilgrims have to leave for Mina while reciting Talbiyah.  And, stop reciting Talbiyah before stoning Jamrat al-Aqabah. Also, avoid rushing or pushing through crowds of pilgrims out of impatience. 

Stoning Jamrat al-Aqabah (Rami al-Jamrah al-Kubra)

There are three Jamarat which are stone structures as a mark of the place where Hazrat Ibrahim rejected the temptations of Satan. These are named as Jamarat al-Sughra, Jamarat al-Wusta and Jamarat al-Aqabah. Jamrat al-Aqabah is the largest stone pillar (out of three) in Mina. On 10th Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims have to stone only this pillar. While stoning this pillar, revive the obedience of Hazrat Ibrahim who rejected the temptations of Satan while preparing to obey the command of Allah.

How Many Pebbles Are Thrown at Jamrat al-Aqabah?

At Jamrat al-Aqabah, pilgrims have to throw 7 pebbles separately (not at once). 

When is the Best Time for Rami?

The preferred time begins after sunrise on 10th Dhul Hijjah. Pilgrims can also perform stoning later in the day or at night if required. 

How to Perform Rami Correctly?

First of all, stop reciting Talbiyah after reaching Jamrat al-Aqabah. To start Rami, stand facing Jamrat al-Aqabah and throw one pebble at a time. Also, say "Allahu Akbar" with every throw.

اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ

Transliteration: Allahu Akbar

Translation: Allah is the Greatest.

Try to throw each pebble in a way that it lands within the designated basin surrounding the pillar. Rami is an act of worship. So, don't get panic or aggressive anyway. Also, avoid believing that the pillar represents Satan. This is because the pillar is only the location designated for the ritual. It is not Satan himself.

Offering Hady (Animal Sacrifice)

Hady is an animal that pilgrims have to sacrifice to thank Allah for completing Hajj. This ritual revives Muslims about the sacrifices of Hazrat Ibrahim to fulfill the command of Allah. 

Who Needs to Offer Hady?

Pilgrims who are performing Hajj al-Tamattu' and Hajj al-Qiran have to sacrifice Hady as part of Hajj rituals. However, pilgrims who are performing Hajj al-Ifrad are not required to sacrifice Hady unless they want to do it voluntarily.

Which Animals Are Eligible for Hady?

Pilgrims can choose animals like a sheep, a goat, one-seventh share of a camel or one-seventh share of a cow. However, the selected animal should be healthy and free from significant defects.

Time of Sacrifice

The sacrifice begins after completing Rami on 10th Dhul Hijjah. Pilgrims can also perform sacrifice during the Days of Tashriq.

Modern Arrangements

Nowadays, pilgrims can hand over the task of sacrificing Hady on their behalf to authorized organizations. After payment, the organization arranges the slaughter according to Islamic requirements and distributes the meat to needy people. All you have to do is confirm the authority of organization and the completion of sacrifice before heading towards the next ritual.

Performing Halq or Taqsir

Pilgrims have to perform Halq or Taqsir after sacrificing the animal in the same way as they did earlier after performing Umrah rituals to exit the Ihram state. 

• Men should prefer Halq (shaving entire head) to exit the Ihram state.
• Women can only perform Taqsir (cutting the ends of hair up to the length of a fingertip).

Dua During Halq or Taqsir

There is no specific dua to recite while performing Halq or Taqsir. However, the best Dua you can recite at that time is:

رَبَّنَا تَقَبَّلْ مِنَّا ۖ إِنَّكَ أَنْتَ السَّمِيعُ الْعَلِيمُ

Transliteration: Rabbana taqabbal minna innaka Antas-Sami'ul-'Alim.

Translation: Our Lord, accept this from us. Surely You are the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.

Partial Release from Ihram (Tahallul al-Awwal)

After completing Halq or Taqsir, pilgrims enter Tahallul al-Awwal which is the first release from Ihram. During this stage, most of the Ihram restrictions are lifted. And things which become permissible include:

• Wearing ordinary clothing.
• Covering the head (for men).
• Applying perfume.
• Trimming nails.
• Using scented soap or lotion.
• Resuming normal daily activities.

Step 12: Performing Tawaf al-Ifadah

Tawaf Al-Ifadah is an important ritual of Hajj that pilgrims perform after completing major Hajj rituals like sacrifice for the sake of Allah.  So, every pilgrim whether performing Hajj al-Tamattu', Hajj al-Qiran or Hajj al-Ifrad has to perform Tawaf Al-Ifadah. And skipping this Tawaf will leave the entire Hajj journey incomplete. 

When is Tawaf al-Ifadah Performed?

The ideal time begins after completing stoning at Jamrat al-Aqabah, offering sacrifice and performing Halq or Taqsir on 10 Dhul Hijjah. The Sunnah is to perform Tawaf Al-Ifadah on 10th Dhul Hijjah. However, if necessary out of any valid reason, the pilgrim can also perform Tawaf Al-Ifadah on 11th, 12th or even later before leaving Makkah. 

Preparation for Tawaf al-Ifadah

Prepare yourself for Tawaf Al-Ifadah in a similar way as any other voluntary Tawaf by performing Wudu and making an intention for Tawaf Al-Ifadah. However, during this Tawaf, men are no longer required to perform Idtiba' (leaving the right shoulder uncovered). They have to cover their both shoulders. They are also not required to perform Raml (brisk walking) during the first three circuits.

Offering Two Rak'ahs After Tawaf

Offering two rak'ah Salah after completing Tawaf is a Sunnah act. So, find a place near maqam e Ibrahim and offer two rak'ah Salah and ask Allah for acceptance.

Drinking Zamzam After Tawaf

Drinking Zamzam while completing rituals in Masjid al-Haram is also the Sunnah act. So, drink Zamzam while standing until satisfied and praise Allah afterward. Zamzam is a miraculous water which brings unlimited benefits to the pilgrims. And to ask for all these benefits, recite this Dua before or after drinking Zamzam:

 اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا، وَرِزْقًا وَاسِعًا، وَشِفَاءً مِنْ كُلِّ دَاءٍ

Transliteration: Allahumma ini as'aluka 'ilman nafi'an, wa rizqan wasi'an, wa shifa'an min kulli da'.

Translation: O Allah, grant me beneficial knowledge, abundant provision, and healing from every illness.

Performing Sa'i after Tawaf Al-Ifadah

Not all the pilgrims need to perform Sa'i after completing Tawaf Al-Ifadah since it depends on the type of Hajj you are performing. 

• Pilgrims performing Hajj Tamattu' have to perform Sa'i after Tawaf Al-Ifadah even if they had performed Sa'i earlier as part of an Umrah ritual. 
• Pilgrims performing Hajj Qiran don't require to perform Sa'i after Tawaf Al-Ifadah who had already performed Sa'i after arrival at Tawaf (Tawaf al-Qudum).
• Pilgrims performing Hajj Ifrad also don't require to perform Sa'i after Tawaf Al-Ifadah who had already performed Sa'i after arrival  Tawaf (Tawaf al-Qudum).

Complete Release From Ihram (Tahallul al-Thani)

After completing Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa'i, pilgrims reach Tahallul al-Thani (the second and complete release from Ihram). And this doesn't require performing Halq or Taqsir again (for those who had performed Halq or Taqsir already before performing Tawaf Al-Ifadah) to exit the Ihram state fully. 

Returning to Mina

After exiting the Ihram completely, pilgrims have to return back to Mina and spend the nights of 11th and 12th and 13th (if required) Dhul Hijjah (days of Tashriq) there. And staying during these days of Tashriq in Mina is an obligatory duty of Hajj.

Step 13: Stoning the Three Jamarat During Days of Tashriq

After completing all the major rituals and exiting Ihram completely on 10th Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims have to spend the night of 11th Dhul Hijjah in Mina and continue the ritual of Rami. Unlike the Rami that pilgrims had performed on 10th Dhul Hijjah only at Jamarat al-Aqabah, pilgrims have to perform Rami on all of the three Jamarat on 11th, 12th and 13th (optional) Dhul Hijjah. 

Understanding the Three Jamarat

• Jamrat al-Sughra (The Small Jamrah): The first Jamarah while approaching from Mina that requires 7 pebbles to throw each day.
• Jamrat al-Wusta (The Middle Jamrah): The second Jamarah in between Jamrat al-Sughra and Jamarat al-Aqabah which also require 7 pebbles to throw each day.
• Jamarat al-Aqabah (The largest Jamrah): The largest stone pillar (out of three) in Mina which also require 7 pebbles to throw.

Timing of Stoning

On 11th and 12th Dhul Hijjah, the right time of stoning begins after the sun passes its highest point (after Dhuhr begins) and remains until sunset.

Step 14: Optional Stay in Mina on 13th Dhul Hijjah

Staying in Mina on 13th Dhul Hijjah is completely optional for pilgrims. So, pilgrims aren't sinful if they leave Mina after completing stoning on 12th Dhul Hijjah. And pilgrims can also stay on 13th Dhul Hijjah and hence have to perform stoning at all three Jamarat on that additional day as well.

Leaving Mina After Completing Rami

After completing the stoning, pilgrims can leave Mina and return to Makkah. And before departing Makkah, they have to complete Tawaf al-Wada'.

Step 15: Performing Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wada')

Tawaf al-Wada' is the final act of Hajj that pilgrims perform before leaving Makkah. 

What Happens After Completing Hajj?

Completing all the rituals of Hajj marks the completion of Hajj not the worship. So, it's important to practice the patience for bearing hardships on the right way and motivation for performing additional worshipping acts even after returning home - and this is what a transformative pilgrimage actually feels like. To do so, practice:

• Reflecting on your Hajj journey. 
• Pondering on the spiritual meaning of each Hajj ritual.
• Analyzing difference in your inner self before and after performing Hajj.
• Making constant dhikar.
• Continuing righteous deeds.

Final Words: Complete Your Hajj According to Sunnah

Following the right sequence of Hajj rituals and performing each at the right time as per the Sunnah method are all what make the Hajj journey acceptable and transformative for pilgrims. So, prepare yourself for such a sacred journey ahead of your departure from the UK to make it your life changing experience.