Comprehensive Guide to Hajj & Umrah Rituals | Contact EG

rahaf mohamed

Table of Content

Introduction

Hundreds of thousands of Egyptians dream of performing Hajj or Umrah, a spiritual journey unlike any other. But between the requirements and rising costs, preparing for this sacred experience can feel overwhelming.

Whether you're planning your first pilgrimage or simply want to understand what it takes to complete one, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know: from the steps of Umrah rituals to the core Hajj conditions, practical travel tips, and the current Hajj costs that Egyptian pilgrims can expect in 2026.

The Similarities And Differences Between Hajj & Umrah

Hajj and Umrah are alike in that they both involve traveling to Makkah, circling the Kaaba, and performing specific acts of worship. But they’re different in purpose, timing, and rituals.

Hajj: one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is mandatory for every Muslim who meets the required Hajj conditions. That includes being mentally, physically, and financially able to perform it. Hajj takes place once a year and involves several key steps that usually last 5-7 days.
Umrah: on the other hand, is referred to as the “minor pilgrimage.” It is not mandatory, but it is still incredibly spiritually rewarding. You can perform Umrah at any time of the year, and the core Umrah rituals (Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, and Halq or Taqsir) can be completed in just a few hours or days.

Step-by-Step Overview of Hajj Rituals

Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual and deeply personal transformative journey. It is also physically demanding and intense, especially for first-time pilgrims. Understanding what each day holds will help you make the most of it:

Day 1: Ihram and Arrival in Mina

Your Hajj begins with entering the sacred state of Ihram. This involves:

Performing ghusl (ritual washing)
Wearing the proper Ihram garments
Making your intention (niyyah)
Reciting the Talbiyah

After that, you’ll head to Mina, just outside of Makkah, where you’ll spend the night in prayer and reflection.

Day 2: Arafat - The Heart of Hajj

On the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims gather in Arafat for what is known as the Day of Standing. This is considered the spiritual peak of Hajj.

You’ll stand from noon until sunset in prayer, reflection, and heartfelt du‘aa, asking for closeness and forgiveness from Allah. After sunset, you’ll travel to Muzdalifah, collect pebbles, and sleep under the stars.

Day 3: Jamarat and Sacrifice

After praying Fajr in Muzdalifah, you’ll return to Mina to perform the stoning of Jamarat al-Aqabah, symbolizing the rejection of evil.

Then comes the Udhiya (animal sacrifice), followed by shaving or trimming your hair (Halq or Taqsir). These steps mark your exit from Ihram and a symbolic renewal of self.

Day 4: Tawaf and Sa’i

Back in Makkah, you’ll perform Tawaf al-Ifadah (circling the Kaaba seven times) and then complete Sa’i, walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah.

Most of your core Hajj rituals are now done, and you can return to Mina or stay in Makkah, depending on your group.

Day 5: Final Stoning and Farewell

On your final day, you’ll return to Mina for the stoning of all three Jamarat. Before leaving Makkah, you’ll perform Tawaf al-Wada, a farewell circumambulation of the Kaaba.

This will mark the official completion of your pilgrimage.

Hajj Costs for Egyptians in 2026

For many Egyptians, covering Hajj costs is one of the biggest obstacles standing between them and their pilgrimage. Here's a quick overview of the prices paid this year and what you can expect when planning for your Hajj journey in 2026:

Government-Sponsored Hajj

If you're selected through the official Hajj lottery, you’ll be offered a subsidized package. According to the Ministry of Interior’s 2025 figures, the total cost starts at around EGP 175,500, which includes:

Flight tickets
Accommodation in shared rooms or tents
Transportation inside Saudi Arabia
Basic meals and logistical support

This is one of the most affordable options available, but places are limited and subject to strict eligibility requirements.

Private Hajj Packages in Egypt

For those in search of more comfort and flexibility (or not selected in the lottery), private travel companies offer a wide range of packages.

Economy Packages: EGP 225,000 – 260,000. 3 or low 4-star hotels, usually farther from the Haram. Shared rooms (4–6 people) and group transport. Ideal for those who want to keep costs low
Standard Packages: EGP 355,000 – 410,000. Balance between comfort and affordability. 4 to 5-star hotels within walking distance of the Haram. Rooms shared with 2–3 people. Air-conditioned buses and Arabic-speaking guides
Luxury Packages: EGP 430,000 – 580,000+. Premium 5-star hotels right next to the Haram. Private or semi-private rooms. Private transport

Items not included in most packages:

Personal expenses, snacks, shopping, and tips
Travel insurance or health coverage
Extra services like wheelchair rentals or private guides

Step-by-Step Overview of Umrah Rituals

For many Egyptians, Umrah is the first pilgrimage they take and the first time they stand before the Kaaba in person. Here’s a simple guide to the Umrah rituals:

Ihram:
- Performing ghusl (ritual washing)
- Dressing in Ihram garments (men wear two white unstitched cloths, women dress modestly)
- Making your intention (niyyah)
- Reciting the Talbiyah: “Labbayka Allahumma labbayk…”
Tawaf (Circling the Kaaba):
- When you reach the Haram in Makkah, you’ll perform Tawaf by walking around the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. You start and end each round near the Black Stone, offering du‘aa as you go.
- This is often the most emotional moment for first-timers.
Sa’i (Between Safa and Marwah):
- After completing Tawaf, you’ll head to the long hallway between the hills of Safa and Marwah. You walk seven rounds back and forth just as Hagar (peace be upon her) did in search of water for her son.
Halq or Taqsir (Hair Removal):
- Men shave their heads (Halq) or trim their hair (Taqsir)
- Women cut a small portion of their hair (about the length of a fingertip)
- This final step symbolizes renewal and humility and marks your exit from the state of Ihram.

How Long Does It Take? Most pilgrims complete Umrah in just a few hours, depending on crowd size and pace. But many choose to stay longer in Makkah afterward to pray, reflect, and soak in the moment.

Tips for a Smooth & Meaningful Pilgrimage

A little preparation goes a long way. These tips will help you stay focused on the spiritual side of your journey while avoiding common headaches along the way:

Study the rituals ahead of time: Familiarize yourself with the steps of the Umrah rituals or Hajj in advance. Ask scholars, watch videos, read guidebooks, or talk to those who’ve performed it before. The more you understand the process, the less overwhelmed you’ll feel once you're there.
Pack smart, not heavy: Resist the urge to overpack and stick to the essentials:
- Ihram garments, a prayer mat, and a small Quran
- Passport, visa, and copies of your documents
- Basic first aid, prescribed medications, and unscented toiletries
- Comfortable shoes and a refillable water bottle
Pro tip: A waist pouch helps you keep valuables close while you move through crowds.
Take care of your health: Get all required vaccinations (like meningitis, COVID-19, and flu), and consult your doctor if you have chronic conditions. Hajj and Umrah both involve long walks and standing in the heat, so start light physical training a few months before you go.
Book early: Especially for government-subsidized programs. Booking early gives you better choices and more time to budget properly.

How Contact Can Help You Afford Your Pilgrimage

If you’re eligible for Hajj or Umrah but are hesitant to take the journey because of the cost, you’re not alone. Many Egyptians find themselves torn between their spiritual calling and financial reality.

That’s where Contact’s Manasik financing comes in. Our Shariah-compliant solution is designed specifically to make Hajj and Umrah more accessible without putting pressure on your savings or delaying your plans for years.

What Contact Manasik Financing Offers:

Flexible repayment options: Up to 12 months for Umrah and up to 60 months for Hajj.
Finance up to EGP 3 million, depending on your needs and package.
Start with as little as 20% down, then spread the rest over time.
Simple application process: Fast approvals with minimal paperwork.

Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or helping a loved one fulfill their dream, don't let finances hold you back. Contact Manasik financing will support you every step of the way.

Learn more about Contact Manasik or use our online installment calculator to plan your payments. Your journey to Makkah is closer than you think.

Similar blogs