How to Perform Umrah for Children: A Complete Guide for Parents

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Umrah with Children

Question: Parents are taking their three young children for Umrah. How should Umrah be performed for the children? A detailed answer is requested.

Answer: It is permissible and valid for children to perform Umrah. However, guardians need to consider whether the child can handle the restrictions of ihram and if the process will be manageable. If the guardian is confident that the child can wear ihram, observe its restrictions, and perform the rituals of Umrah, they may proceed. But if it seems too burdensome, they should wait until the child is older and more understanding. The procedure for children is the same as for adults. First, the child is dressed in ihram, and at the miqat, the guardian makes the intention for Umrah on behalf of the child. If possible, the child may also recite the talbiyah. The child must be kept from the prohibitions of ihram. Upon reaching Mecca, the guardian should keep the child close during the tawaf, exposing the child’s right shoulder (as done during idtibaa’). The guardian performs the tawaf with the intention for both themselves and the child. Similarly, in sa’i, the guardian intends to perform it for both themselves and the child. After completing the tawaf and sa’i, the child’s hair is shaved or trimmed. This completes the child’s Umrah.

Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah 

Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia  

Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail