Tawaf Al-Qudum - What Is It? & How to Perform It - Complete Walkthrough

Tawaf Al Qudum is one of the important tawaf types performed by pilgrims upon arriving in Makkah.

The word “Qudum” means “arrival,” and this initial tawaf acts as a spiritual welcome to the holy Kaaba within the Grand Mosque. 

Pilgrims carry out this tawaf by walking seven times around the Kaaba counterclockwise, starting at the Black Stone.

It is performed while in the state of ihram tawaf, maintaining all the required purity and focus.

Though not obligatory, Tawaf Al Qudum is highly recommended for those performing Hajj al Ifrad and Hajj al Qiran.

Unlike other tawaf rituals ihram, it is not part of Umrah but a standalone Sunnah that honours the sanctity of entering the Haram.

This tawaf carried out upon arrival helps pilgrims mentally and spiritually prepare, guiding them to transition into the full Hajj state with humility and devotion to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى).

What is the Purpose of the Arrival Tawaf?

Tawaf Al Qudum, or Tawaf al Tahiyyah, is the arrival tawaf greeting the holy Kaaba.

It marks the start of Hajj with respect and focus on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى). This tawaf type is Sunnah for pilgrims arriving in Makkah, except residents and those doing Hajj al Tamattu.

Performed at the Grand Mosque, it helps pilgrims enter the ihram tawaf state and prepare spiritually for Hajj rituals.

Is Tawaf Qudum Compulsory?

Tawaf Al Qudum is not compulsory, and its omission does not invalidate Hajj. It is a Sunnah practice, meaning it is recommended but not required.

Pilgrims who are delayed or physically unable to perform it will not be penalised. It is especially encouraged for those not performing Umrah during Hajj.

Even though it is not obligatory, it holds spiritual value as it reflects the devotion and humility of a pilgrim upon entering the sacred boundaries of Makkah.

Performing this tawaf sets a mindful tone for the days ahead and allows the pilgrim to begin their Hajj experience with sincerity and focus on Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى).

How to Perform Tawaf Upon Arrival in Makkah

Pilgrims enter the Grand Mosque with their right foot, reciting:

 "اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ لِي أَبْوَابَ رَحْمَتِكَ"
 Translation: "O Allah, open the doors of Your mercy for me."

Then the pilgrim proceeds directly to the Kaaba without praying two rakaat.

The tawaf begins at the Black Stone. Men perform Idtiba, uncovering the right shoulder, and walk briskly in the first three circuits (Ramal).

Each round goes counterclockwise with the Kaaba always on the left. During each circuit, pilgrims can make Tawaf dua, and the most commonly recited one is:

 "رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ"
 Translation: “Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”
 

After completing seven circuits, two rakaat are prayed behind Maqam Ibrahim if space allows.

The pilgrim then drinks Zamzam water and, depending on their Hajj type, may perform Sa’i between Safa and Marwa.

This moment marks one of the most peaceful connections a pilgrim can have with Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى).

Source: Al-Baqarah : 201

Can I Perform Tawaf Without Doing Umrah?

Yes. Tawaf Al Qudum is specifically for pilgrims performing Hajj al Ifrad or Hajj al Qiran. These types do not include Umrah, so the pilgrim enters Makkah and begins with Tawaf Al Qudum.

 Those performing Hajj al Tamattu would have already performed Tawaf al Umrah earlier and thus do not perform Tawaf Al Qudum again. The two are distinct and not interchangeable.

Recognising the Types of Tawaf

Pilgrims often hear different terms like Tawaf al Ifadah, Tawaf al Wada, and Tawaf al Umrah. Each has its own timing and spiritual function. Understanding these helps prevent confusion during Hajj.

What is Tawaf Al Ifadah?

Tawaf al Ifadah is performed after returning from Mina on the Day of Sacrifice. It is a pillar of Hajj, meaning it is mandatory. Skipping it invalidates the pilgrimage.

It signifies the pilgrim’s return to the Kaaba after completing the core Hajj rituals. Also known as Tawaf al Ziyarah, it allows the pilgrim to exit significant Ihram restrictions, including marital relations.

It is a moment of fulfilment and closeness to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى).

Bullet List: Types of Tawaf

• Tawaf Al Qudum – Sunnah tawaf upon arrival in Makkah
• Tawaf al Ifadah – Obligatory tawaf after stoning the Jamarat
• Tawaf al Wada – Farewell tawaf before leaving Makkah 
• Tawaf al Umrah – Performed during the Umrah pilgrimage
  
• Tawaf al Ziyarah – Alternate name for Tawaf al Ifadah
  
• Nafl Tawaf – Voluntary tawaf for reward and spiritual closeness
  

Difference Between Tawaf al Qudum and Tawaf al Ifadah

Tawaf al Qudum is performed at the start of Hajj, usually immediately upon arrival in Makkah. It is Sunnah and not obligatory.

Tawaf al Ifadah is mandatory and performed later in the Hajj sequence after completing key rites in Mina. While both involve circling the Kaaba, their timing, spiritual status, and ritual requirements differ.

Tawaf al Ifadah cannot be skipped. Tawaf al Qudum adds reward but is not a condition for Hajj validity.

Summary – Tawaf Al Qudum

Tawaf Al Qudum is a beautiful Sunnah practice that introduces the pilgrim to the sacred journey of Hajj.

Though not compulsory, it enriches the spiritual connection to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) and serves as a meaningful welcome to Makkah.

It differs from Tal Ifadah and Tawaf al Umrah in purpose and timing. Every pilgrim performing Hajj al Ifrad or Qiran should try to complete this tawaf with awareness and sincerity.

Standing before the Kaaba and completing the circuits brings a sense of clarity, renewal, and spiritual direction that stays with the pilgrim throughout their journey.

Whether you are a first-time Hajj pilgrim or returning once again, this tawaf helps centre your heart, align your purpose, and begin your sacred journey with peace and focus.