Itimaar

Hajj Guide

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Understanding the Different Types of Hajj

There are three different forms of Hajj that pilgrims can perform, and each one is approved and practiced during the time of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. These forms of Hajj differ mainly in how Umrah and Hajj are combined, the number of times Ihram is assumed, and whether sacrifice (Hady) is required.

Choosing the correct form of Hajj depends on travel plans, physical ability, and personal convenience.

1. Hajj al-Tamattu’ (The Most Common Form)

Hajj al-Tamattu’ involves performing Umrah first, followed by Hajj, with a break in between during which the pilgrim exits Ihram. This is the most widely performed form of Hajj today, especially by pilgrims travelling from outside Saudi Arabia.

How It Is Performed

Pilgrims enter the Ihram at the Miqat with the intention for Umrah
Perform Umrah (Tawaf, Sa’i, hair cutting)
Exit Ihram and remain in Makkah
On 8th Dhul Hijjah, assume Ihram again for Hajj
Complete all Hajj rituals

Key Features

Two separate Ihrams
Sacrifice (Hady) is obligatory
Most flexible and convenient option

2. Hajj al-Qiran (Combined Hajj and Umrah)

In this type of Hajj, pilgrims need to perform both Umrah and Hajj in a single Ihram without exiting Ihram in between. The pilgrim remains in Ihram from Miqat until after the major rituals of Hajj are completed.

How It Is Performed

Enter Ihram at Miqat with intention for both Umrah and Hajj
Perform Umrah upon arrival
Remain in Ihram until Hajj rituals are completed
Perform Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa’i

Key Features

One Ihram for both Umrah and Hajj
Sacrifice (Hady) is obligatory
Longer duration in Ihram

3. Hajj al-Ifrad (Hajj Only)

Hajj al-Ifrad involves performing only Hajj, without Umrah.

This form was commonly practiced by the residents of Makkah.

How It Is Performed

Enter Ihram at Miqat with the intention for Hajj only
Perform all Hajj rituals
Optional Umrah may be performed after Hajj

Key Features

One Ihram
Sacrifice (Hady) is not obligatory
Simplest form in terms of rituals

Feature	Tamattu’	Qiran	Ifrad
Umrah Included	Yes (separate)	Yes (combined)	No
Number of Ihrams	Two	One	One
Sacrifice Required	Yes	Yes	No
Most Common	Yes	No	Limited

The different forms of Hajj reflect Islam’s flexibility and mercy. Regardless of which form a pilgrim chooses, the true essence of Hajj lies in sincerity, patience, and complete submission to Allah (SWT).