Umrah is a sacred pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah, performed by Muslims at any time of the year, unlike Hajj which has fixed dates. Though it is not obligatory like Hajj, Umrah holds immense spiritual value and is highly recommended in Islam. The rituals of Umrah include entering the state of Ihram, performing Tawaf (circumambulation) around the Kaaba, Sa’i (walking) between the hills of Safa and Marwah, and finally shaving or trimming the hair. It is an act of devotion, seeking forgiveness, and spiritual cleansing.
Ziyarat refers to visiting the holy sites associated with Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, his family, companions, and other significant Islamic landmarks. While Ziyarat is not a formal ritual of Umrah or Hajj, it is a cherished practice among Muslims. In Makkah, pilgrims often visit Jabal al-Noor (Cave of Hira), Jannat al-Mu’alla, and other historic places. In Madinah, visiting Masjid an-Nabawi (the Prophet’s Mosque), the grave of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and the graves of companions in Jannat al-Baqi is a deeply spiritual experience.