Clearing debts, seeking forgiveness from relatives, writing the will (Wasiyyah), and purifying the heart for a journey undertaken solely for Allah's pleasure.

The sacred state entered by cleansing the body, donning the Ihram garments, making the formal Niyyah (intention), and reciting the Talbiyah.

The geographical boundary stations appointed by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) which a pilgrim may not pass without being in the state of Ihram.

Entering the sacred city of Makkah with humility, finding accommodations, performing fresh ablution, and walking towards the Grand Mosque.

Circling the Kaaba seven times counter-clockwise, beginning and ending at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad) corner.

Walking seven laps between the hills of Safa and Marwah, re-enacting the devotion and reliance of Hajar (may Allah be pleased with her).

The official beginning of Hajj rites. Pilgrims journey to Mina, staying in the tent city to pray Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha, and Fajr of the 9th.

The pinnacle and essence of Hajj ('Al-Hajju Arafah'). Standing before Allah from midday until sunset, begging for forgiveness and mercy.

Journeying immediately after sunset from Arafat to Muzdalifah. Praying Maghrib and Isha together, sleeping under the open sky, and collecting pebbles.

Throwing seven pebbles at the large pillar (Jamarat al-Aqaba) on the 10th, and all three pillars on the subsequent Days of Tashreeq.

Offering a sacrificial animal (sheep, goat, or share in cow/camel) in gratitude to Allah for pilgrims performing Tamattu' or Qiran.

Men shave their heads (Halq, which carries greater reward) or cut hair evenly (Taqsir). Women trim approximately a fingertip's length from their hair.

Performing the obligatory Tawaf al-Ifadah (and Sa'i if not done prior), achieving full Tahallul (Tahallul al-Akbar), and bidding farewell to Makkah with Tawaf al-Wada.