Millions of Muslims around the world have a great desire to travel to Makkah. This is the one they dream of for years. Most of them want to go to Makkah to perform Hajj or Umrah. But what’s the main difference between hajj and umrah? Most people have this question arise in their mind when they start planning their pilgrimage.
It’s truly a valid question! And it’s more common than you might think. Hajj and Umrah both require traveling to holy places while wearing white clothes. It’s known as Ihram. Above all else, undertaking actions that will bring one’s heart closer to Allah. But they are not the same. In fact, they differ in purpose with timing and obligation.
I am someone who has helped thousands of people plan their Hajj and Umrah trips over the last 12+ years. I have witnessed the importance of understanding these differences before you decide whether you will be applying for an Umrah visa from Bangladesh or a Hajj visa from Bangladesh. I am preparing this blog to guide you through everything related to Hajj and Umrah in a clear and compassionate manner. This way you can feel confident in your choice as you are both spiritually prepared and informed.
Let’s explore both journeys in depth.
The Core Definitions: Hajj vs. Umrah
Let’s explore the basics first!
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam. Every financially and physically capable Muslim must perform it once in their lifetime. It takes place in a specific Arabic month and has some certain mandatory rituals tied to specific days. The month is Dhul Hijjah.
On the other hand, Umrah is often called the “lesser pilgrimage.” It’s not mandatory. But it’s still highly recommended (Sunnah) and impactful for your entire life. And Umrah can be performed any time of the year unlike Hajj. Even one can perform Umrah during Ramadan. And many people prefer this time frame for its multiplied rewards.
Key Differences at a Glance (Comparison Table)
| Feature | Hajj | Umrah |
| Obligation | Fard (once in a lifetime) | Sunnah (optional) |
| Timing | Fixed: 8–13th Dhul Hijjah | Any time of year |
| Duration | 5–6 days | 3–6 hours (excluding travel) |
| Main Rituals | Tawaf, Sa’i, Arafat, Mina, Rami | Tawaf, Sa’i only |
| Cost | High | Comparatively low |
| Visa Process | Government quota + agency | Open round-the-year visa |
1. Timing and Seasonality
I often get asked, “Which is better? Performing Umrah during Ramadan or off-season?” And the answer depends on what you’re looking for.
Hajj has specific dates and those are the 8th to 13th of Dhul Hijjah. There’s no flexibility here. You have to be in Makkah during those days.
Umrah, however, is flexible. Many of my clients choose off-peak seasons as they want to avoid crowds and save money. Most of them are from corporate backgrounds. Others prefer Ramadan Umrah for the spiritual rewards. Yes! It’s crowded, but it’s deeply emotional.
2. Religious Obligation: Fard vs. Sunnah
This is where the difference really matters.
Performing Hajj is Fard once in a lifetime if you have the physical strength and financial means. Allah has made it mandatory, and delaying it unnecessarily is not wise.
Umrah, though extremely rewarding, is not compulsory. Still, I’ve seen many clients do Umrah once a year or more. Especially those who work in Dubai or Malaysia or have multiple-entry Saudi visas.
If you’re young and able, my advice? Start with Umrah, but plan your Hajj early. Especially now that Saudi quotas are getting tighter.
3. Ritual Differences: What You’ll Actually Do
Let me break it down simply:
Hajj Rituals (more complex):
- Ihram: The sacred state is like a spiritual reset button.
- Tawaf: 7 rounds around the Kaaba.
- Sa’i: Walking between Safa and Marwah.
- Standing at Arafat: The most powerful moment. Your entire Hajj depends on it.
- Muzdalifah: Staying under the sky with no fancy tents. just you and Allah!
- Rami al-Jamarat: Stoning the devil.
- Qurbani: Sacrificing an animal.
Umrah Rituals (simpler):
- Ihram
- Tawaf
- Sa’i
- Halq or Taqsir (shaving/cutting hair)
That’s it. You can finish Umrah in a few hours. Some of my elderly clients with health issues go only for Umrah because Hajj would be physically too demanding.
4. Duration and Travel Requirements
A typical Hajj trip takes about 20 to 30 days. It includes
- Training
- Pre-departure guidance and
- Post-Hajj resting days
You’ll be moving with a group to Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. Each of the places has its own spiritual and physical test.
Umrah, however, can be completed in 7 to 10 days including travel. Some of Our VIP Umrah packages even offer 3-night quick visits for business-class travelers.
5. Costs and Packages: Budgeting Your Pilgrimage
Let’s be real! Hajj is expensive. In 2025, prices range between ৳600,000 and ৳1,000,000+ depending on accommodation type and distance from Haram as well as services like VIP transport or private tents in Mina.
Umrah is far more flexible. I’ve offered packages from ৳120,000 to ৳450,000, depending on hotel star rating and whether the flight is direct or via Dubai or Doha. We accept bKash and bank transfers and even offer installment options for early planners.
6. Visa and Governmental Regulations
Hajj visas are strictly regulated. You can’t apply individually. Only through an approved agency under the Saudi Hajj quota system. It involves registration, health checkups, and selection.
Umrah visas are easier. You can apply round the year and now even get e-visas or transit Umrah via Dubai if you travel with airlines like Emirates.
In 2025, the Saudi government is also allowing multiple Umrahs under one visa for up to 90 days.
7. Spiritual Impact and Emotional Experience
If you ask me personally, I’ll say both Hajj and Umrah are life-changing, but in different ways.
Hajj humbles you. It tests your patience, discipline, and devotion. Standing at Arafat, millions of people in one color, one purpose that moment brings tears to even the strongest hearts.
Umrah, on the other hand, is quieter. More peaceful. More personal. I’ve seen many first-time pilgrims break down during their first Tawaf. This is simply because they never imagined they’d stand in front of the Kaaba.
8. Can You Do Both Together?
Yes, absolutely. Many of my clients go for Hajj Tamattu, where you perform Umrah first, then Hajj later in the same trip.
It’s more expensive but very rewarding. Especially for those who may not be able to visit again.
We offer combo packages that guide you through both, from visa to final Tawaf.
9. Which One Should You Choose First?
Here’s my humble advice:
- If you’re young, financially stable, and ready to go for Hajj as early as possible. Don’t wait till old age.
- If you want to experience the Haram but can’t afford Hajj yet. Start with Umrah.
- Families with small children or elderly parents often find Umrah easier.
- During Ramadan, Umrah carries huge rewards. And we even offer special Sylhet and Chittagong group packages for that.10.Common Myths and Misconceptions About Hajj and Umrah
I’ve heard many pilgrims share ideas that aren’t quite accurate over the years in my journey as a travel agency owner. This happens especially for first-timers. So, let’s clear up a few of the most common misunderstandings I witness at my agency:
Myth 1: You have to perform Umrah before Hajj.
Truth: You can go directly for Hajj. Even if you’ve never done Umrah before. There’s no Islamic requirement to do Umrah first. In fact, many people from rural areas or those who save for years go straight for Hajj. It’s absolutely valid and accepted.
Myth 2: Performing Umrah in Ramadan is the same as doing Hajj.
Truth: The reward for Umrah during Ramadan is indeed very precious. The Prophet (PBUH) said it’s like performing Hajj in reward. But remember that it doesn’t replace your obligation to perform the actual Hajj once in your lifetime if you’re eligible.
Myth 3: After Umrah, you must shave your head completely.
Truth: For men, shaving the head (Halq) is recommended. But trimming (Taqsir) is also acceptable. Especially if they plan to perform Hajj shortly afterward. There’s no shaving required for women. A small portion of hair (a fingertip’s length is ok) is trimmed instead.
10. Two Sacred Journeys, One Ultimate Goal
You may start with Umrah or jump straight into Hajj. But remember, both lead to one thing: closeness to Allah. As someone who has arranged trips for over a decade, my advice is simple: don’t delay. Allah invites whom He wills. If your heart feels called, answer. And if you need help, whether it’s
- Planning
- bKash payment
- Visa processing or
- Joining a group travel from Sylhet or Dhaka
Just reach out to my agency (UmrahLovers). My team is just a phone call away.
