Introduction
Tawaf is one of the most meaningful acts of worship a Muslim performs during Umrah. Standing before the Kaaba and circling it in devotion is a moment many believers wait for their entire lives. Yet, despite its importance, many pilgrims arrive unsure about how to perform Tawaf, what is required, and what mistakes to avoid.
This guide explains performing Tawaf step by step in a clear and practical way. It is written especially for first-time pilgrims, families, elderly travelers, and those who want to perform Tawaf in Umrah with confidence and peace of mind.
Allah says in the Quran:
“And purify My House for those who perform Tawaf.”
Surah Al-Hajj 22:26
Understanding Tawaf in Islam properly helps you focus on worship rather than confusion.
What Is Tawaf in Islam?
The word Tawaf comes from the Arabic root meaning to go around or circulate. In Islam, Tawaf refers to walking around the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction as an act of worship.
Tawaf is not just walking. It is an act of obedience, humility, and remembrance of Allah. During Umrah, Tawaf is a required ritual, and without it, Umrah is not complete.
Unlike general movement in the mosque, Tawaf must follow specific rules related to intention, direction, number of rounds, and purity.
Types of Tawaf You Should Know
Understanding the types of Tawaf helps pilgrims avoid confusion, especially those performing Umrah for the first time.
Tawaf al-Umrah: This is the Tawaf in Umrah that every pilgrim must perform. It is mandatory and must be completed before Sa’i.
Tawaf al-Qudum: This is a welcoming Tawaf, mainly related to Hajj. It is not required for Umrah.
Tawaf al-Ifadah: This Tawaf is performed during Hajj and is mentioned here for general understanding.
Tawaf al-Wida: This is the farewell Tawaf, required for Hajj but not mandatory for Umrah.
For Umrah pilgrims, the main focus remains Tawaf al-Umrah.
Conditions for a Valid Tawaf
For Tawaf to be valid, the following conditions must be met:
- Being in a state of Ihram
- Making a clear intention for Tawaf
- Being in a state of purity (wudu)
- Proper covering of awrah
- Starting Tawaf from Hajr e Aswad
- Completing seven full rounds of Tawaf
- Keeping the Kaaba on the left side
Ignoring these conditions can invalidate Tawaf, which is a mistake many first-time pilgrims make.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Perform Tawaf
1. Making Intention (Niyyah)
The intention for Tawaf is made in the heart.
Arabic:
نَوَيْتُ أَنْ أَطُوفَ طَوَافَ الْعُمْرَةِ لِلَّهِ تَعَالَى
Transliteration:
Nawaytu an atufa tawafal umrah lillahi ta ‘ala
Meaning:
I intend to perform Tawaf of Umrah for the sake of Allah.
2. Starting at Hajr e Aswad
Stand facing Hajr e Aswad, say “Allahu Akbar,” and begin Tawaf. If the area is crowded, pointing toward it is sufficient.
Touching or kissing Hajr e Aswad is not required for Tawaf to be valid.
3. Performing the Seven Circuits
Walk counter-clockwise around the Kaaba. Each round of Tawaf starts and ends at Hajr e Aswad.
Men may walk briskly during the first three rounds. Women walk normally throughout Tawaf.
4. Completing Tawaf
After completing seven rounds of Tawaf, pray two rakahs near Maqam Ibrahim if possible.
Duas to Recite During Tawaf
There is no fixed dua for Tawaf. Pilgrims may recite any dua, dhikr, or Quran during Tawaf.
A common dua during Tawaf between Rukn Yamani and Hajr e Aswad is:
Arabic:
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
Transliteration:
Rabbana atina fid dunya hasanah wa fil akhirati hasanah wa qina azab an-naar
Meaning:
Our Lord, grant us good in this world and good in the Hereafter and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.
Sunnah and Best Practices During Tawaf
- Maintain humility during Tawaf
- Avoid pushing or harming others
- Stay patient in crowded areas
- Focus on remembrance during Tawaf
- Respect the sanctity of the Kaaba
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Performing Tawaf
Some common Tawaf mistakes include:
- Starting Tawaf from the wrong point
- Losing count of the rounds
- Believing certain duas are compulsory
- Pushing to touch Hajr e Aswad
- Walking in the wrong direction
- Stopping Tawaf without need
Avoiding these mistakes helps ensure your Tawaf in Umrah is valid.
Tawaf for Women, Elderly, and Wheelchair Users
Women perform Tawaf the same way as men, without brisk walking.
Elderly and disabled pilgrims may perform Tawaf using a wheelchair, including on upper floors of Masjid al-Haram.
If a woman is menstruating, Tawaf must be delayed until purity is restored.
Best Time to Perform Tawaf
The best times for performing Tawaf with fewer crowds include:
- Late night after Isha
- Early morning before Fajr
- Non-peak hours outside busy seasons
During Ramadan and peak months, proper planning becomes essential.
What Comes After Tawaf?
After completing Tawaf, pilgrims proceed to Sa’i between Safa and Marwah. Together, Tawaf and Sa’i complete the main rituals of Umrah.
How a Guided Umrah Package Helps with Tawaf
Many pilgrims struggle with Tawaf due to lack of guidance, not difficulty. A travel agency can help by:
- Explaining the steps of Tawaf
- Advising on the best times to perform Tawaf
- Assisting elderly and first-time pilgrims
- Preventing common Tawaf mistakes
Our trusted Umrah travel services provide complete packages, including visa, hotels, transport, and ritual guidance.
Families and groups may also benefit from Easter Umrah packages planned for holidays.
Conclusion: Performing Tawaf With Knowledge and Sincerity
Tawaf is a moment of submission, reflection, and devotion. Understanding how to perform Tawaf correctly ensures you focus on worship rather than confusion.
To make your journey smooth and meaningful, consider our complete Umrah packages with visa and hotels.
When you are ready to start, book your Umrah journey with our experienced team for guidance at every step.
May Allah accept your Tawaf and your Umrah.
FAQs About Tawaf
Is Tawaf valid without touching the Kaaba?
Yes, Tawaf is valid even if you cannot touch the Kaaba.
Can I pause during Tawaf?
Yes, reasonable breaks are allowed, especially for elderly or disabled pilgrims.
Is Tawaf allowed on upper floors?
Yes, performing Tawaf on any level of Masjid al-Haram is valid.
What if I forget how many rounds I completed?
Rely on what you are most certain of and complete the remaining rounds.
Can children perform Tawaf?
Yes, children can perform Tawaf, though they should be supervised by adults to ensure safety.
Are there special rules for women during Tawaf?
Women perform Tawaf at a normal pace. If menstruating, they must wait until they are pure before performing Tawaf.
Can I recite any dua during Tawaf?
Yes, there is no fixed dua for Tawaf. Pilgrims can recite personal supplications or dhikr throughout Tawaf.
