Hajj and Umrah glossary for first-time pilgrims
Learn what Ihram, Miqat, Tawaf and Sa’i mean so you can follow your pilgrimage guide with confidence.
Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim enters for Hajj or Umrah. Miqat refers to a prescribed boundary relevant to entering that state. Before you travel, ask your organiser which Miqat applies to your route and when they will brief you.
Tawaf means going around the Kaaba. A complete Tawaf consists of seven circuits. Sa’i is the journey between Safa and Marwa. Count each one-way length separately, starting from Safa and ending at Marwa after seven lengths.
How should I use this glossary before travelling?
Match each term to the relevant step in your Hajo guide and ask your group’s religious guide about anything specific to your journey.