Common Mistakes to Avoid During Hajj & Umrah
Hajj and Umrah are among the most sacred journeys a Muslim can undertake. They are not just physical rituals but deep acts of worship that require preparation, patience, and knowledge. However, many pilgrims – especially first-time travelers – end up making mistakes that can affect the smoothness and even the validity of their pilgrimage.
In this article, we will highlight the most common mistakes during Hajj and Umrah, explain why and when they occur, and provide practical tips on how to avoid them. By being aware of these pitfalls, pilgrims can ensure a more rewarding and spiritually uplifting experience.
1. Lack of Proper Preparation
Why it Happens
Many people underestimate the physical, spiritual, and logistical demands of Hajj and Umrah. Some think they can simply “figure it out” once they arrive, while others focus only on the travel details without preparing spiritually.
When it Happens
This often occurs before the journey begins – during the planning stage.
How to Avoid It
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Learn the step-by-step rituals in advance.
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Attend workshops or online classes about Hajj and Umrah.
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Read authentic guides and watch educational videos.
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Prepare physically by walking regularly, as the rituals involve a lot of movement.
2. Neglecting the Rules of Ihram
Why it Happens
Ihram is a sacred state with specific restrictions. Many pilgrims unintentionally break these rules due to a lack of awareness, such as using scented products, covering the head (for men), or wearing stitched clothing.
When it Happens
Mostly before or during the state of Ihram – at Miqat or throughout the journey.
How to Avoid It
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Review the do’s and don’ts of Ihram beforehand.
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Pack Ihram-friendly toiletries (unscented soap, toothpaste, etc.).
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Ask a knowledgeable guide if unsure about a rule.
3. Incorrect Intention (Niyyah)
Why it Happens
Some pilgrims are unsure of the correct wording or delay making the intention at Miqat. Others confuse the intentions between Hajj Tamattu’, Ifraad, or Qiran.
When it Happens
At Miqat or while entering Makkah.
How to Avoid It
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Learn the different types of Hajj and their correct intentions before traveling.
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Write down or memorize the Niyyah.
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Ask a scholar for clarification based on your situation.
4. Crowding and Pushing at the Kaaba
Why it Happens
Pilgrims often feel emotional and want to touch the Kaaba, kiss Hajr al-Aswad, or pray at Multazam. This leads to overcrowding, pushing, and sometimes harming others.
When it Happens
During Tawaf (circumambulation) around the Kaaba.
How to Avoid It
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Remember that harming another Muslim is a grave sin.
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Do not insist on touching Hajr al-Aswad if it risks injury. Point towards it instead.
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Maintain patience and calmness an know that Allah rewards your sincerity.
5. Performing Tawaf Incorrectly
Why it Happens
Some pilgrims forget to keep the Kaaba on their left, start at the wrong point, or fail to complete seven rounds. Others talk excessively or take selfies during Tawaf, distracting themselves.
When it Happens
During Tawaf in Masjid al-Haram.
How to Avoid It
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Always start from Hajr al-Aswad and keep the Kaaba on your left.
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Count each round carefully.
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Focus on dua and dhikr, not on photographs or conversations.
6. Neglecting Sunnah Acts of Worship
Why it Happens
In the rush to complete rituals, many forget Sunnah practices such as praying in the Rawdah, making duas between Rukn Yamani and Hajr al-Aswad, or offering extra prayers.
When it Happens
Throughout Hajj and Umrah, especially in busy times.
How to Avoid It
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Study Sunnah acts in advance.
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Carry a small pocket guide for quick reminders.
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Take advantage of less crowded times to perform extra prayers.
7. Overexertion and Exhaustion
Why it Happens
Pilgrims try to do too much at once, walking long distances, standing for hours, or performing multiple Umrahs without rest. This leads to fatigue, dehydration, and sometimes illness.
When it Happens
Mostly during Tawaf, Sa’i, and Mina.
How to Avoid It
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Stay hydrated and eat light, nutritious meals.
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Rest between rituals instead of rushing.
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Remember: Hajj is about quality, not quantity.
8. Neglecting Cleanliness and Hygiene
Why it Happens
With millions of people gathered, maintaining hygiene can be difficult. Some neglect personal cleanliness, throw litter, or do not follow proper toilet etiquette.
When it Happens
Throughout the journey, especially in camps at Mina and Arafat.
How to Avoid It
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Carry sanitizers, wet wipes, and tissue packs.
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Follow the Sunnah of cleanliness.
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Dispose of trash properly.
9. Mismanaging Time at Arafat and Muzdalifah
Why it Happens
Some pilgrims waste time in idle talk or sleep during these critical rituals instead of making dua, remembering Allah, or praying.
When it Happens
On 9th Dhul Hijjah at Arafat and the night in Muzdalifah.
How to Avoid It
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Prepare duas beforehand to use your time effectively.
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Focus on worship rather than unnecessary conversations.
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Remember that Arafat is the essence of Hajj.
10. Throwing Pebbles Incorrectly at Jamarat
Why it Happens
Some throw large stones, shoes, or sticks instead of small pebbles. Others insult or curse Shaytan loudly, turning the act into anger rather than a symbolic worship.
When it Happens
During Rami al-Jamarat (stoning of the pillars) in Mina.
How to Avoid It
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Collect proper-sized pebbles (small, like chickpeas).
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Throw calmly, saying “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar.”
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Understand that it’s an act of obedience, not rage.
11. Failing to Respect Local Customs and Rules
Why it Happens
Some pilgrims ignore instructions from authorities, crowd unnecessarily, or disrespect the sanctity of the Haramain.
When it Happens
Throughout Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites.
How to Avoid It
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Obey Saudi regulations designed for safety.
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Be patient with security and crowd control measures.
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Always show respect in the holy lands.
12. Neglecting Women’s Needs and Comfort
Why it Happens
In some groups, women are not given proper consideration for rest, safety, or privacy. This leads to unnecessary hardship for them.
When it Happens
During travel, accommodation, and rituals.
How to Avoid It
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Families and group leaders must prioritize women’s comfort.
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Allow rest, safe space, and assistance when needed.
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Remember: Hajj is equal for men and women in reward and responsibility.
13. Being Busy with Phones and Cameras
Why it Happens
With today’s technology, many pilgrims spend time taking pictures and videos instead of focusing on worship.
When it Happens
Almost everywhere – Kaaba, Masjid al-Nabawi, Arafat, Mina.
How to Avoid It
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Limit phone use to necessities.
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Take only a few respectful photos if needed.
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Focus on the once-in-a-lifetime worship instead of digital distractions.
14. Forgetting to Seek Knowledge Beforehand
Why it Happens
Some people rely entirely on group leaders or companions, without learning the essentials themselves. This causes confusion if separated from the group.
When it Happens
At every stage of the pilgrimage.
How to Avoid It
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Study Hajj and Umrah rulings beforehand.
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Carry a small guidebook.
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Stay confident by learning from authentic scholars.
15. Ignoring the Spirit of Hajj and Umrah
Why it Happens
Some focus only on completing the rituals physically but forget the essence – submission, humility, and seeking forgiveness.
When it Happens
Throughout the pilgrimage.
How to Avoid It
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Constantly remind yourself of the purpose.
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Make sincere duas.
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Avoid arguments, pride, and impatience.
The Role of Learning Before You Travel
One of the best ways to avoid these mistakes is to seek proper knowledge of the Quran and Sunnah before going. At Learn Read Quran, we provide one-on-one online Quran classes that not only teach recitation but also help you understand Islamic rulings and etiquettes. By strengthening your knowledge beforehand, you will approach Hajj and Umrah with confidence, clarity, and devotion.
Conclusion
Hajj and Umrah are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for many Muslims. Mistakes are common, but most can be avoided with preparation, patience, and knowledge. Always remember that the journey is not just about completing rituals – it is about connecting with Allah, purifying your heart, and seeking forgiveness.
By learning in advance, respecting others, and focusing on the spiritual purpose, you can ensure your Hajj or Umrah becomes a beautiful and unforgettable experience.
