Have you ever wondered if it’s possible to perform Umrah on behalf of a parent, grandparent, or someone close to you — especially if they have passed away or are unable to travel because of health issues? For many Muslims, this is not just a question of religious duty, but also of love and longing. The thought of helping a loved one fulfill this sacred act can be deeply emotional.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know — from what Islam says about performing Umrah on behalf of someone else, to practical tips for UK pilgrims who want to make it happen.
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What Does It Mean to Perform Umrah for Someone Else?
Performing Umrah on behalf of another person is called Umrah Badal. Simply put, it’s when you perform all the rites of Umrah — but with the intention that the reward goes to someone else.
This is often done for people who have passed away or for those who are permanently unable to travel because of illness or age. In a way, you become their representative (wakil), helping them complete an act of worship they couldn’t do themselves.
Islamic Evidence: What the Quran and Hadith Say
There are several authentic narrations that show the permissibility of performing pilgrimage for someone else:
- A woman once asked the Prophet ﷺ, “My mother vowed to perform Hajj but passed away before she could do it. Can I perform Hajj for her?” The Prophet ﷺ replied: “Yes, perform Hajj on her behalf.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
- In another narration, a man asked about his elderly father who could not travel. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Perform Hajj on behalf of your father.” (Sunan Abu Dawood)
Since Hajj and Umrah share the same basic rulings, scholars agree that this applies to Umrah as well — as long as certain conditions are met.
When You Can Perform Umrah on Behalf of Someone
1. For the Deceased
If someone close to you passed away without performing Umrah, you can do it on their behalf. This is considered an act of kindness (ihsan) and is often seen as a form of sadaqah jariyah — ongoing charity that continues to benefit them. Many Muslims in the UK choose to do this for their parents or grandparents.
2. For the Living Who Cannot Travel
You can also perform Umrah for someone who is alive but unable to travel due to:
- Chronic or severe illness
- Permanent disability
- Old age that makes travel dangerous or extremely difficult
For example, if someone from Manchester travels to Makkah and performs Umrah on behalf of their elderly father who can’t leave the UK, it is perfectly valid. However, it’s highly recommended to get the parent’s permission first.
When It’s Not Allowed
You cannot perform Umrah on behalf of someone who is healthy and financially able to go themselves. Islam obligates every capable Muslim to perform Umrah or Hajj personally. Doing it on their behalf without a valid reason (or without their consent) doesn’t count.
Conditions for a Valid Umrah Badal
To make sure your Umrah counts for the other person, keep these points in mind:
- Perform your own Umrah first. Scholars generally agree you must complete your own before doing it for someone else.
- Have a clear intention (niyyah). Quietly say in your heart that this Umrah is for the person you’re representing.
- Get permission if they are alive. This ensures you are respecting their right.
- Follow all rites properly. Mistakes can invalidate the Umrah, so take your time.
Step-by-Step: How to Perform Umrah for Someone Else
- Complete your own Umrah first (if you’ve never done it).
- Make your intention for the person before entering ihram.
- Wear ihram and recite the talbiyah.
- Do Tawaf (seven circuits around the Kaaba) sincerely.
- Pray two rak’ahs near Maqam Ibrahim if possible.
- Perform Sa’i between Safa and Marwah.
- Shave or trim your hair (for men) or cut a small portion (for women).
- Pray for the person after completing the Umrah, asking Allah to accept it for them.
The Rewards and Spiritual Benefit
This act is a win-win — the person you perform Umrah for receives the reward of the pilgrimage, and you also get rewarded for enabling them to fulfill this act of worship. It can bring a lot of peace to your heart, especially if it’s for a late parent or grandparent.
Common Mistakes to Watch Out For
- Forgetting to make a proper intention.
- Performing several Umrahs back-to-back without re-entering ihram.
- Doing Umrah for someone who could have gone themselves.
- Rushing through the rites just to get it done.
FAQs
Can I do Umrah for more than one person on the same trip?
Yes, but you need to perform each Umrah separately with a fresh intention and ihram every time.
Can I do Umrah for a non-Muslim?
No, Umrah is only valid for Muslims.
Do I also get rewarded?
Yes — you receive the reward of helping someone fulfill their obligation.
Practical Tips for UK Pilgrims
- Choose flight schedules that allow enough time if you plan to perform more than one Umrah.
- Opt for packages with guidance from a scholar, especially if it’s your first time.
- Keep a written list of names so you don’t forget anyone you intended to include.
Final Thoughts
Performing Umrah on behalf of someone else is not just allowed — it’s a beautiful way to honor loved ones and give them a share of spiritual reward. It’s a deed full of barakah (blessings) for both sides.
If you’re based in the UK and thinking about planning your journey, Safar-e-Kaaba makes it simple with guided Umrah packages tailored for British Muslims. Check out our Umrah packages here.
And don’t forget to share this article with friends or family — someone you know might be looking for this exact answer.
