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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Yes, it is permissible in Islam to perform Umrah on behalf of another person, provided certain conditions are met. This practice, known as performing Umrah <em>in absentia</em>, is generally accepted for individuals who are physically unable to perform it themselves, such as the elderly, chronically ill, or deceased.

Key Facts

Umrah can be performed for another person if the original person is physically unable or has passed away.
The intention (niyyah) for the Umrah must be clearly established for the person on whose behalf it is being performed.
A person can only perform Umrah for one other person at a time.
The person performing Umrah must have already completed their own obligatory Umrah.
The performance of Umrah in absentia is an act of voluntary worship and a way to extend the spiritual benefits to others.

Overview

Umrah, the lesser pilgrimage to Mecca, is a deeply spiritual journey undertaken by Muslims worldwide. While often performed for oneself, a common and accepted practice within Islamic jurisprudence is the ability to perform Umrah on behalf of another individual. This provision allows for the spiritual merits of Umrah to be extended to those who are unable to undertake the pilgrimage themselves due to various circumstances, thereby fostering a sense of community and shared devotion.

The permissibility of performing Umrah for someone else stems from the general Islamic principle that acts of worship, particularly voluntary ones, can be dedicated to others. This concept is rooted in the understanding that the reward for good deeds can be transferred, and it serves as a compassionate measure to ensure that all Muslims, regardless of their physical condition or earthly limitations, can potentially benefit from the immense blessings associated with visiting the Kaaba and performing the rituals of Umrah.

How It Works

Intention (Niyyah): The most crucial aspect of performing Umrah for another is the sincere intention. The pilgrim undertaking the Umrah must explicitly declare their intention to perform it for the specific individual. This intention should be made at the designated Miqat (the point of entry into the sacred state of Ihram) and should be clearly articulated, either verbally or in the heart. For example, one might say, "I intend to perform Umrah for [Name of person] seeking Allah's acceptance."
Physical and Financial Capability of the Performer: The individual performing Umrah for another must themselves be physically capable of completing all the rites of Umrah and financially able to do so without incurring debt or hardship. It is generally accepted that one cannot perform Umrah for someone else if they have not already performed their own obligatory Hajj or Umrah.
Eligibility of the Beneficiary: The person for whom the Umrah is being performed must be genuinely unable to undertake the pilgrimage themselves. This inability can be due to permanent illness, old age that prevents travel, or if the person has passed away. If the person is merely hesitant or has not prioritized it, then Umrah cannot be performed on their behalf until they themselves have the sincere intention and are able to go.
One Umrah Per Person at a Time: A common ruling states that an individual can only perform Umrah on behalf of one person at a time. This means that if you decide to perform Umrah for your mother, you cannot simultaneously perform it for your father or any other relative during the same spiritual journey. You would need to complete the first Umrah and then, if you wish, undertake another specifically for the second person.

Key Comparisons

Feature	Performing Umrah for Self	Performing Umrah for Another
Intention (Niyyah)	Solely for oneself.	Explicitly for the designated individual, alongside one's own intention if performing it as a personal voluntary act.
Eligibility of Performer	Physical and financial capability. Must have performed obligatory Hajj/Umrah if applicable.	Physical and financial capability. Must have performed one's own obligatory Hajj/Umrah prior to performing for another.
Eligibility of Beneficiary	Self.	Must be unable to perform Umrah due to illness, old age, or death.
Number of Umrahs Performed	Can perform multiple Umrahs for oneself.	Generally limited to one Umrah for one specific individual at a time.

Why It Matters

Spiritual Connection: Performing Umrah for a loved one, especially a parent or a deceased relative, is a profound act of devotion and love. It allows individuals to extend a spiritual gift and seek divine mercy for those they care about, strengthening the bonds of family and community even beyond physical presence.
Fulfilling a Duty of Care: For children who have elderly or infirm parents, performing Umrah on their behalf can be seen as a way of fulfilling a filial duty and ensuring that their parents can still partake in the blessings of the pilgrimage, even if they cannot physically be there. This act reflects the emphasis Islam places on honoring and caring for parents.
Seeking Allah's Mercy for the Deceased: When performed for a deceased person, Umrah serves as a form of continuous charity (Sadaqah Jariyah). The spiritual reward is hoped to alleviate their burden in the hereafter and elevate their status in Paradise, demonstrating the ongoing impact of good deeds within the Muslim community.

In conclusion, the practice of performing Umrah for another is a well-established and compassionate aspect of Islamic worship. It underscores the interconnectedness of the Muslim community and the enduring power of prayer and good deeds. By adhering to the stipulated conditions and performing the pilgrimage with sincere intention, individuals can offer a significant spiritual gift to those who are unable to embark on this blessed journey themselves.