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Hajj Guide UK

Hajj Guide UK / Plan your Hajj

Hajj 2027

The three types of Hajj: Tamattu', Qiran and Ifrad

There are three ways to perform Hajj. Most pilgrims from the UK perform Tamattu': Umrah first, out of ihram, then a fresh ihram for Hajj on 8 Dhul Hijjah.

Last checked: November 2026. Written for pilgrims travelling from the UK.

Scholar review pendingThis page follows the mainstream position and notes where the schools of thought differ. Before launch it will be reviewed by a qualified scholar. Always follow your group's scholar on the day.
Tamattu'QiranIfrad
What you doUmrah, leave ihram, then Hajj with a new ihramUmrah and Hajj in one ihramHajj only
Stay in ihram until Eid?No, only from 8 Dhul HijjahYesYes
Sacrifice (hady) required?YesYesNo
Who usually chooses itMost pilgrims from abroad, including the UKThose who bring a sacrificial animal, or by choiceOften residents of Makkah, or by choice

Why Tamattu' suits most UK pilgrims

UK groups usually arrive days or weeks before Hajj. Staying in ihram that long is hard, so Tamattu' lets you complete Umrah, come out of ihram, and rest until the 8th.

How to decide

Your operator's programme usually assumes Tamattu'. If you want Qiran or Ifrad, tell them early, because it affects your timetable and sacrifice arrangements. Scholars of all four schools accept all three types; they differ on which is best.

Evidence and references

Hadith numbers follow the standard numbering (Sahih Muslim: Muhammad Fu'ad Abd al-Baqi). Each reference was checked against the source text on November 2026.

Common questions

Which type of Hajj is best?

Scholars differ. Many, including the Hanbali school, prefer Tamattu'; the Hanafi school prefers Qiran; the Maliki and Shafi'i schools prefer Ifrad. All three are valid.

Do I have to pay for a sacrifice with Tamattu'?

Yes, Tamattu' and Qiran require a sacrifice (hady). Most UK packages arrange it through the official programme, so check what your package includes.