We all know that Umrah is one of the most spiritually uplifting acts of worship, and this spiritual retreat starts with intention. In Islam, the intention is given much importance. Even if you intend to perform a good deed but don’t, you still get a reward. This is the significance of pure intentions in Islam. In the case of Umrah, you must also make Niyat for Umrah dua before you embark on the spiritual retreat. It is a crucial step of the pilgrimage, and you must not miss it.
Anyone going on an Umrah for the first time may want to know how to properly make the intention for the pilgrimage. Thousands of UK Muslims who undertake Umrah each year ensure their pilgrimage is as smooth as making the intention. If you are also looking for the best Umrah packages 2026 from the UK, it is time to learn about the pilgrimage beforehand to ensure an unforgettable journey. Here is a blog on how to make the intention for Umrah, the dua for it, and when and where to recite it.
What is Niyat in Umrah?
Before learning when and where to make the Niyat for Umrah, you must understand what Niyat is in Umrah. Niyat is another word for intention. It is a conscious decision to perform an act solely for the sake of Allah Almighty. And even though it might seem like a verbal statement, it is much more than that. It is a heartfelt commitment to prove your devotion to the Almighty.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“Actions are judged by intentions, and everyone will be rewarded according to what they intended.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
By making an intention for the pilgrimage, you will make it clear that this is not an ordinary journey. It distinguishes ordinary journeys from spiritual retreat. Therefore, it is as essential as any other pilgrimage ritual.
Why You Should Make Niyat for Umrah?
As we have already mentioned, making Niyat for Umrah is very crucial. It officially enters you in the state of Ihram, which is the state of purity that prepares you to be the guest of Allah Almighty. Not only that, but it is also a source of defining your act of worship. With a proper intention to perform Umrah, you distinguish the voluntary pilgrimage from the obligatory pilgrimage, the Hajj.
Moreover, it is also the perfect way to align your worship with sincerity and devotion. There is no better way to start your spiritual transformation journey than by aligning your goals. Additionally, another important factor supporting the significance of Niyat for Umrah is that the pilgrimage is not valid without a pure intention. Therefore, ensure your intention is clear before you begin the pilgrimage rituals.
Niyat for Umrah Dua
Here is an Umrah dua that you can recite as you make an intention for your pilgrimage.
Arabic
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أُرِيدُ الْعُمْرَةَ فَيَسِّرْهَا لِي وَتَقَبَّلْهَا مِنِّي
Transliteration
Allahumma innī urīdul ‘umrata fa yassirhā lī wa taqabbalhā minnī
Meaning
O Allah, I intend to perform Umrah, so make it easy for me and accept it from me.
When to Recite Niyat for Umrah?
One question many pilgrims ask is when to recite Niyat for Umrah. You must recite Niyat for Umrah before you cross any of the designated Miqat points. Every pilgrim must make their intention for the pilgrimage clear after they have entered the state of Ihram. The ideal time to make Niyat for the pilgrimage is;
- After performing ghusl
- After wearing the Ihram garments
- Before crossing the Miqat boundary
- Just before starting Talbiyah
Making Niyat is the last step of entering the state of Ihram. As you recite your Niyat for Umrah dua, you officially enter Ihram, and you must abide by all the Ihram rules.
Where to Make Niyat for Umrah?
Another critical question for first-time pilgrims is where to make Niyat for Umrah. There are multiple places where you can make your intention, depending on your route and entry point to Makkah. Some pilgrims even make Niyat and enter Ihram at home, while others observe this sacred month at airports. Therefore, there is no limitation to where you should make Niyat for your pilgrimage. Here are some common places to make Niyat for Umrah.
- At the Miqat (e.g., Dhul Hulayfah, Juhfah, Qarn al-Manazil)
- On a plane, just before crossing Miqat (usually announced by the crew)
- At home, if you live within the Miqat boundary
- At a hotel (for residents of Makkah or nearby areas)
If you are travelling by air, you should be careful that you don’t cross the Miqat points while travelling, or else, you will have to pay a penalty fee.
Should You Say Niyat Out Loud?
Even though it is essential to make your Niyat for Umrah clear and with full focus, it is not mandatory to say the Niyat out loud. Niyat is an action of the heart and must be performed with a pure heart. You should refocus your thoughts and speak your Niyat dua silently and softly. Make sure there are no other distractions while you make Niyat to perform an Umrah solely for the sake of the Almighty, to please Him. There is no requirement for a loud declaration of Umrah Niyat in the Quran and Sunnah.
Summing Up
Making Niyat for Umrah dua is the last step of Ihram. This is crucial for completing one of the primary pilgrimage rituals. It is a powerful practice that helps you focus on pleasing the Creator and forget worldly distractions while at pilgrimage sites. If you are planning an Umrah soon and have already contacted an Islamic travel agency, it is time to prepare to make Niyat for your Umrah. You must also understand the importance of a pure heart and of performing all pilgrimage rituals correctly to ensure a smooth pilgrimage.
