Donate
Donate

How to Perform Hajj

A step-by-step guide to performing hajj

What is hajj and why do Muslims perform it?

Each year, millions of Muslims from across the globe perform hajj, a sacred pilgrimage and the fifth pillar of Islam.

Who can perform hajj?

Hajj is obligatory once in a lifetime for every adult (i.e. they have reached puberty) Muslim who is physically and financially able to perform the pilgrimage.

How long does hajj take? When do I perform hajj?

Hajj is a journey of 5-6 days, taking place each year between the 8th-12th of Dhul Hijjah.

Muslims use the lunar calendar, so the corresponding Gregorian date will vary year to year. This year, hajj is taking place between 24 to 29 May 2026, depending on the sighting of the moon.

What are the 3 types of hajj?

There are 3 forms of hajj: tamattu, ifrad and qiran.

  • Ifrad: Performing hajj only (no umrah).
  • Qiran: Performing hajj and umrah in a single ihram (more difficult as you must remain in the state of ihram for a longer period of time).
  • Tamattu: Performing hajj and umrah in 2 separate ihrams.

For the purpose of this hajj guide, we will use the tamattu form of hajj, which is what the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged Muslims to perform, although all types are valid and rewarding.

HAJJ Infographic

How to prepare for hajj

Hajj is both a spiritually and physically challenging journey. It’s important to prepare yourself beforehand to avoid feeling overwhelmed or confused, and in order to make the most of your hajj.

Spiritual preparation can include:

  • Practise speaking less altogether, and be especially careful to avoid any arguments. Any type of fighting and arguments are forbidden when in the state of ihram.
  • Read up on the meaning behind the rituals of hajj, particularly the importance of qurbani which is connected to Prophet Ibrahim AS and his son Prophet Ismail (AS). Also learn about his Ibrahim’s wife Hajar and how millions of Muslims follow in her footsteps each year.
  • Read at least 1 page of Quran per day with translation if needed, to ensure you understand the meaning of the sacred words.
  • Purify your intention and ensure you are undertaking the journey of Hajj for the sake of God alone.
  • Seek forgiveness from anyone you have wronged and settle any debts you may have. Be determined to return from Hajj with all you sins forgiven and as a reformed person with impeccable character.

Fulfilling your sacred obligation of hajj will be the most spiritual period of your life inshallah, filled with blessings and forgiveness from Allah (SWT).

Physical preparation can include:

  • 3 months before hajj, start incrementally increasing your step count. For example, if you average 5k steps in your daily life, increase this by 1-2k in the first month, then another 1-2k in the second month, etc. The goal is to steadily improve your cardiovascular fitness so you can comfortably walk the long distances during hajj.
  • Purchase ihram clothing (women can wear any modest clothing, while men must purchase the designated white cloth). Men are also required to wear footwear that leaves the ankles and the instep (the top part of the foot) exposed. This means choosing slippers or open-toe sandals that keep most of the foot visible, aligning with the principles of humility and simplicity. Women way wear any type of shoes.
  • Invest in a decent pair of trekking sandals. They tend to be the most comfortable and practical footwear, given that you will be walking long distances on tarmac as well as gravel. Try and wear-in your sandals before you depart for Saudi Arabia so that you don’t get blisters or face discomfort once you’re there.
  • Bring comfortable clothing and a durable water bottle which will keep you cool in the heat of Makkah.
  • Bring essentials such as unscented sun cream, moisturiser, Vaseline and soap. Sun cream is particularly handy, especially if you have no hair, as it’s not permissible for men to cover their head or face while in ihram. Vaseline helps protect against painful rashes that may occur as a result of constant walking. All of these items are readily available in Saudi Arabia.

Here, we present a step-by-step guide to hajj and its significance.

The 19 steps of hajj at a glance

  1. Preparation and intention
  2. Enter state of ihram
  3. Tawaf x7
  4. Safa and Marwa
  5. Clip/shave hair (umrah ends)
  6. Rest and pray
  7. Enter state of ihram
  8. Arrive at Mina
  9. Day of Arafah
  10. Muzdalifah (under the night sky)
  11. Rami (stoning of the devil)
  12. Qurbani
  13. Clip/shave hair
  14. Tawaf al-Ifadha
  15. Sa’i
  16. Rami
  17. Spend night at Mina
  18. Rami
  19. Farewell Tawaf al-Wida
Hajj

The interior of Masjid al-Haram provides pilgrims with plenty of space to pray, as well as welcome respite from the sun

How do I perform hajj?

Here are the 19 steps of hajj in detail:

1. Preparation and intention

Before you arrive at Mecca to begin hajj, it’s important to make your intention (niyyah) within your heart. The intention must be to perform the hajj for the sake of Allah alone, with a desire for good in the hereafter. Hajj should not be done with the intention of being seen by others or for worldly gain.

2. Entering the state of ihram

Next, you’ll enter into the state of ihram (ritual purity). For men, this means wearing the designated white cloth, with one piece wrapped around your shoulder and one around your waist. Men must also wear footwear that leaves the ankles and the instep (the top part of the foot) exposed.

Ladies may wear any clothing of their choice while ensuring their awrah (everything except their hands, face and feet) is covered. Women who normally wear the niqab should note that face coverings are not permitted.

Ihram describes both the physical and spiritual state you enter once you have made the intention to go to hajj. The rules around the clothing of ihram are extremely simple, yet strict and must be adhered to, so that there is no outward distinction between the pilgrims. Everyone stands equal before Allah (SWT), and one’s status, race, culture, and wealth are irrelevant.

It’s very important to note that when you are in a state of Ihram, you are not permitted to smoke, swear, shave, clip your nails, or engage in any form of sexual relations. Fighting and arguments are also forbidden, and participants are prohibited from hunting, killing, or unjustifiably breaking anything. You must also avoid scented products such as perfumes, moisturisers, makeup, or soaps — but can substitute these for unscented toiletries.

Once you arrive at the holy Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, with these preparations in mind, you’re ready to start the biggest spiritual journey of your life!

Upon arrival in Mecca, you must first perform your umrah, which means you will do your tawaf and sa’i as outlined in the next steps.

3. Tawaf x 7

Tawaf is one of the principal rites of the hajj and refers to circling the Ka’bah in an anticlockwise motion.

A single tawaf is made up of 7 complete circuits, with each one starting and ending at the black stone, which is situated within the Ka’bah.

In addition to your tawaf, you can also offer voluntary prayers to thank Allah (SWT) for arriving safely and to mark the start of this incredibly special spiritual journey.

4. Safa and Marwa

After you’ve performed your tawaf, you’ll then perform what’s known as sa’i (walking and running between the two hills of Safa and Marwa).

You’ll begin the sa’i on the hill of Safa and walk towards the hill of Marwa. You will eventually see the green lights, at which point men run until the next set of green lights (women continue to walk at a regular pace). Both men and women then continue walking until they reach Marwa. This completes 1 lap. You will then return to Safa to complete your second lap. Your sa’i is complete once you have performed a total of 7 laps between the hills of Safa and Marwa.

This is an important ritual in memory of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) wife Hajar, and her struggle in the desert in search of water for her son Prophet Ismail (AS). Sa’i symbolises the ongoing struggle that we encounter throughout our lives, as Hajar experienced herself.

5. Clip/shave hair (umrah ends)

Once sa’i is complete, men will have their hair clipped or shaved, while women clip their hair to the length of her fingertip. This marks the completion of your umrah, allowing you to leave ihram until the eighth day of Dhul Hijjah.

Tip: Be very patient here. You’ll be tired from tawaf, and you might notice fellow pilgrims in a hurry to complete the sa’i. Feel free to take your time. Take regular breaks, and drink Zamzam water, which is available between Safa and Marwa.

6. Resting and praying

Now that you’ve performed your umrah, make sure to get plenty of rest and make the best use of your time by performing sincere acts of worship. Your hajj will begin on the eighth day of Dhul Hijjah.

Difference between Hajj and Umrah

7. Re-entering state of ihram (Day 1: 8th Dhul Hijjah)

The eighth day of Dhul Hijjah marks the beginning of the days of hajj and the next stage of your spiritual journey. You’ll purify yourself and enter the state of ihram once again.

Once you’re all set to enter the ihram, you’ll begin reciting the following invocation called the talbiyah:

لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لاَ شَرِيْكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ لاَشَرِيْكَ لَكَ

Transliteration:

Labbayka Allāhumma labbayk. Labbayk lā shareeka laka labbayk. Inna al-ḥamda, wa n-‘imata, Laka wal mulk. Lā shareeka lak.

Translation:

“Here I am, O Allah, here I am, here I am. You have no partner, here I am. Verily all praise and blessings are Yours, and all sovereignty. You have no partner.”

You will then proceed to the neighbourhood of Mina, roughly 8 kilometres from the centre of Mecca.

8. Arrive at Mina

Once you arrive in the tent city of Mina, you’ll settle into your allocated tent. Here you’ll pray salah (obligatory prayers), including Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, ‘Isha and Fajr, shortening your 4-unit prayers to 2 units each but without combining them, as stated in the Qur’an.

You’ll spend the night praying, reading the Qur’an and preparing for tomorrow. It’s an important time for spiritual reflection and devotion, so try and make the most of this special night.

Tip: Be patient here, as space inside the tents can be very tight, and you might find yourself very close to fellow pilgrims. The weather is likely to be very hot, so remember to keep yourself hydrated. There are cold water stations near the tents, so familiarise yourself with your surroundings. You may also notice that hajj authority workers regularly stock up complementary cold drinks in cooler boxes next to your tent.

9. Day of Arafah (Day 2: 9th Dhul Hijjah)

After sunrise in Mina, you’ll then head to the plains of Arafah, seeking forgiveness and making supplications, to mark the day of Arafah when we ask Allah (SWT) for forgiveness for our sins.

Upon reaching the plains of Mount Arafah, pilgrims observe shortened Dhuhr and Asr prayers combined (2 units instead of 4). Followers of the Hanafi school should note that the Hanafi madhab only considers combining Dhur and Asr as valid if this is done behind the imam. So, if one was to pray in their tent, then they should not combine both salah.

On this day, there will be a sermon delivered from Masjid al-Nimra on Mount Arafah.

Try to listen to the khutbah (sermon) if possible. Your group may also facilitate a translation of this sermon into your language.

The day of Arafah is one of the most important days for Muslims across the world, as Allah (SWT) refers to the Day of Arafah in Surah al-Maidah as the day on which He perfected His religion, completed His favours upon His beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and approved Islam as a way of life.

The Prophet (PBUH) also said:

There is no day on which Allah frees people from the Fire more so than on the day of ‘Arafah. He comes close to those [people standing on Arafah], and then He reveals himself before His Angels saying, ‘What are these people seeking?

HAJJ Infographic3

So, be sure to stand on the plains of Arafah and make lots of supplication, focussing your energy on Allah (SWT), asking Him for forgiveness and blessings for you and your family. Don’t forget to include your friends, relatives, neighbours as well as the wider ummah (community) in your dua on this special day.

Tip: Don’t be tempted to exhaust your energy and trek up Mount Arafah, also known as Jabal al-Rahmah, on this day. Jabal al-Rahmah is the hill from where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his sermon. There is no authentic source to suggest any benefit in trekking up the hill itself or undertaking this climb as a religious ritual. The level area surrounding the hill is called the Plains of Arafah and this is where you should be spending your time in contemplation and prayer.

10. Arrive in Muzdalifah

After sunset, you’ll depart Arafah and head to Muzdalifah – an open plain between Mina and Arafah. Once you reach Muzdalifah you’ll perform your Maghrib and ‘Isha prayers, one after the other, shortening the ‘Isha prayers to 2 units.

As Abdullah ibn Umar (RA) narrates:

“The Prophet (PBUH) offered the Maghrib and ‘Isha prayers together at Muzdalifah with a separate iqamah [second call to prayer] for each of them and did not offer any optional prayer in between them or after each of them.” [Bukhari]

Afterwards, you can then spend the night in worship or resting. The Prophet (PBUH) went to sleep until shortly before Fajr, choosing not to engage in night worship as he normally did. So, don’t be tempted to exhaust yourself, rest instead – you have a long day ahead of you!

While in Muzdalifah, you may also collect pebbles to perform rami over the next 3 days.

The size of the pebbles should be similar to the size of date stones/seeds. You will need a total of 49 pebbles.

However, it is advised that you pick up a further 21 pebbles as a precautionary measure, bringing your total up to 70.

When you proceed to the phases of throwing the pebbles at the jamarat (the stone pillars), you may miss the target, or some pebbles may fall from your hand. Therefore, it’s better to have more than you need than end up short. Pebbles can also be collected from anywhere in Mina.

Tip: At Muzdalifah, you will stay under the night sky. There are no tents or other accommodation facilities here. Although there are plenty of lights, it is still fairly dark. Try to stay near your group, as it is very easy to get lost among the thousands of pilgrims. Toilets and wudhu facilities are available in Muzdalifah, but they will likely be crowded so patience must be exercised here.

It’s highly recommended to use the toilets and freshen up before you leave Arafah.

Over 1.6 million pilgrims performed Hajj in 2025

11. Rami and qurbani (Day 3: 10th Dhul Hijjah – the start of Eid al-Adha)

The tenth day of Dhul Hijjah is also called the Yawm al-Nahr, or the Day of Sacrifice (qurbani).

After performing Fajr prayer, you will depart Muzdalifah and go back towards Mina. Remember to continuously recite the talbiyah.

On this day, pilgrims perform qurbani and also commence the first of 3 days of rami. Muslims around the world also offer qurbani during this time and begin the 4-day festival of Eid al-Adha. We know this from this verse in the Qur’an:

“And when you are safe, then, whoever avails the advantage of the umrah along with the hajj shall make an offering of whatever animal is available. However, anyone who finds none shall fast for 3 days during hajj, and for 7 days when you return; thus they are 10 in all. This is for him whose family are not residents of Al-Masjid-al-Haram.” [Qur’an | 2:196]

Origin of rami

The stoning of the jamarat – otherwise referred to as the ‘stoning of the devil’ – is a ritual carried out by pilgrims in which pebbles are thrown at 3 stone structures in Mina across 3 days.

The first day of stoning occurs on the tenth of Dhul Hijjah. On this day Muslims also offer qurbani and celebrate Eid al-Adha.

The act of throwing stones at the jamarat is known as rami. The ritual of rami is symbolic of the actions of Ibrahim (AS) when he was faced with the trial of having to sacrifice his son, Ismail (AS) upon the commandment of Allah (SWT).

On the way to carry out the commandment, Iblis (Satan) repeatedly tried to tempt Ibrahim (AS) into disobeying Allah (SWT). As Ibrahim (AS) reached Jamarat al-Aqaba, Allah (SWT) ordered Angel Jibreel (AS) to instruct Ibrahim (AS) to throw 7 stones at Iblis. He obliged, and Iblis fled immediately. The 3 jamarat indicate the 3 places where Iblis tried to dissuade Ibrahim (AS) from obeying the command of Allah. However, the pillars do not contain Iblis, as many people are wrongly led to believe.

How to perform rami

On the tenth, eleventh, and twelfth days of Dhul Hijjah, you will perform rami with 49 stones similar in size to dates or seeds.

You’ll need a certain number of pebbles for each of the 3 days. The breakdown is as follows:

  • 7 pebbles for the tenth of Dhul Hijjah
  • 21 pebbles for the eleventh of Dhul Hijjah
  • 21 pebbles for the twelfth of Dhul Hijjah

Try to carry 4 small pouches per person for your pebbles. Use the pouches to group pebbles according to the breakdown above.

Once you reach the jamarat, you will head to Jamarat al-Aqaba, which is the largest pillar, and here you will throw the first 7 pebbles at the concrete pillar. You will only pelt this 1 pillar on the first day.

Upon each throw, you’ll say the takbir:

“اللهُ أَكْبَرُ”

Translation: ‘Allah is The Greatest’

Tip: Don’t rush to perform the rami. The hajj authorities will most likely allocate a set time for your group. They do this to minimise overcrowding and the risk to pilgrims.

Try not to get angry and throw your sandals or other valuable possessions at the pillars. Iblis is not contained within the pillar, so you’ll only lose your valuables and there is no benefit in doing so.

12. Qurbani and Eid al-Adha

The festival of Eid al-Adha is celebrated by Muslims around the world who are not on pilgrimage on the tenth day of Dhul Hijjah. By offering qurbani (sacrifice), Muslims mark Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) upon the commandment of Allah (SWT).

HAJJ Infographic2

13. Shaving the head (Day 4: 11th Dhul Hijjah)

After offering qurbani, men will proceed to shave or trim their hair. Women will trim their hair by the length of a fingertip.

Now you are allowed to leave the state of ihram and wear comfortable clothing. You are also allowed to resume otherwise halal activities that were forbidden in the ihram, except for sexual intimacy. It is sunnah (a practice of the Prophet PBUH) to apply perfume as the Prophet (PBUH) smelt strongly of musk at this point.

Tip: Men can use disposable blades to shave each other’s heads. If that’s not possible, you’ll notice a number of barbers in Mina ready to shave your head for a price. Ensure that the barbers use new blades to avoid infection.

14 & 15. Tawaf al-Ifadha and sa’i (Day 5: 12th Dhul Hijjah)

You will now go to Mecca to perform Tawaf al-Ifadha and then another circuit of sa’i as part of your hajj rituals.

Tawaf al-Ifada and sa’i are obligatory. You must perform these after the rami, the qurbani (sacrifice) and shaving (or trimming) of the head/hair.

With the completion of the tawaf and sa’i, you are then allowed to relax and do everything that was lawful before entering the ihram, including engaging in sexual intimacy.

You will now return to your tents in Mina and continue with the remaining rituals of hajj.

Tip: The tawaf area will be extremely crowded during this time. Try to use the upper levels of the Haram or the roof. You might want to do this around midnight when it tends to be quieter.

16. The second day of rami

On the eleventh day of Dhul Hijjah, you will proceed to your second day of rami.

On this occasion you pelt each of the 3 pillars in order. You will begin with Jamarah al-Ula (the small pillar), then Jamarah al-Wusta (the second/middle pillar) and finally, Jamarah al-Aqaba (the third/large pillar).  You stop after the first and second jamarat to make dua while facing the qibla. Each pillar should be consecutively stoned with 7 pebbles accompanied by the takbir. Remember to take your spare pebbles with you in case you lose some!

17. Spend the night in Mina

Once your second rami is complete, you will return to your camp in Mina and spend the rest of the day and night in worship, making the most of the remaining time you have.

18. The third day of rami

On the afternoon of twelfth day of Dhul Hijjah, you’ll have your final batch of pebbles (21 pebbles) ready to repeat the same steps as the previous day.

19. Tawaf al-Wida (The farewell tawaf)

You now have only 1 step left to perform before completing hajj and departing from Mecca. The farewell tawaf is the last rite Muslims must perform.

This tawaf is wajib (obligatory) according to Hanafis, Shafi’is and Hanbalis. Sunnah according to Malikis and must be performed prior to leaving the boundaries of the Haram. Omitting this tawaf, without a valid reason, is not deemed lawful in Islam.

Ibn Abbas (RA) narrated:

“The people were ordered to perform the Tawaf al-Wida as the last thing before leaving (Makkah), except the menstruating women who were excused.” [Bukhari]

For this tawaf, you will complete 7 laps of tawaf. Then perform 2 units of prayer and drink Zamzam water. There is no sa’i or shaving/trimming of the head after this tawaf.

Hajj mubarak! You’ve now completed your hajj!

For those of us who are unable to travel and perform hajj, don’t despair! The best 10 days of the year are first to the tenth of Dhul Hijjah.

These days are a second chance to earn the mercy and forgiveness of Allah (SWT) after Ramadan.

We should use this blessed time to do more good deeds. These can include anything such as giving charity, honouring one’s parents, upholding family ties, and enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil. It is also important to enhance our obligatory acts of worship by being mindful of our prayers and ensuring we pay our zakat on time. For those of us who have not yet completed the pilgrimage of hajj, this is also an ideal time to make dua that Allah (SWT) grants us the opportunity when He deems best.

Our Prophet (PBUH) said:

“There are no days that are greater before Allah or in which good deeds are more beloved to Him than these 10 days, so recite a great deal of tahleel (la illaaha illa Allah), takbeer (Allahu Akbar) and tahmeed (Alhamdulillah) during them.” [Ahmad]

It’s highly recommended for you to fast and remember Allah (SWT) as much as you can during these 10 days.

The qurbani for non-travellers is sunnah muakkadah (emphasised sunnah) according to most scholars and obligatory according to the Hanafis. If you can afford to offer the sacrifice, then you are encouraged to do so. This would be in remembrance of the struggle and dedication of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to Allah (SWT), and would support a family in need.

Fulfil your qurbani this Eid and reap the rewards of the 10 best days. Donate today.

Qurbani and Dhul Hijjah resources

Quick donate
arrow-up

Quick donate

Join Our Newsletter

We will always treat your personal information with the utmost care and will keep it private (read our privacy policy). You can opt out at any time by contacting us via email at IslamicReliefWorldwide@irworldwide.org or by clicking the unsubscribe button on one of the emails you receive from us.

© Copyright 2026 Islamic Relief Worldwide, Inc. All rights reserved. Registered Charity No. 328158
Zia Salik

Interim Director of Islamic Relief UK

Zia Salik was appointed Interim Director of Islamic Relief UK in 2025, and brings with him over 18 years of third sector experience. He has held several leadership roles within Islamic Relief UK, including National Events Coordinator, National Community Fundraising Manager, Head of Fundraising, and Deputy Director. Zia has led national fundraising strategies, managed large-scale campaigns and events, and contributed significantly to volunteer development, donor engagement and public outreach. 

As Interim Director, Zia oversees multiple teams and contributes to strategic planning, operational leadership and organisational growth. He is recognised for his expertise in major donor management, public speaking, media engagement and community fundraising. Zia has been instrumental in building strong community networks and delivering impactful campaigns.

Before joining Islamic Relief, Zia served as Programmes Manager at Humber All Nations Alliance, where he led organisational growth, project delivery and funding proposals.

Zia is a seasoned leader committed to social justice, who brings a collaborative, mission-driven approach to his work, helping to amplify voices and maximise impact in the charity sector.

Nadeem Malik

Interim CEO of Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) and Managing Director of Humanitarian Academy for Development (HAD)

Nadeem has a wealth of experience from the charity, statutory and private sectors. He is the Managing Director of HAD (a division of IRW) which is a centre of excellence seeking to empower the humanitarian sector and maximise its effectiveness and from October 2025 will serve as our interim CEO. 

Before joining Islamic Relief, for nearly a decade at the General Medical Council — a globally recognised professional regulator — Nadeem managed strategic relationships with Chief Medical Officers and senior leaders. Prior to that, he served as the UK Director of Islamic Help, engaging closely with many international non-governmental organisations and playing a key role in fundraising and media activities.

In 2000, Nadeem was admitted as a solicitor. He spent nearly 8 years as a Partner at a law firm specialising in employment, regulatory and charity law. He has published papers, including in the Modern Law Review, and chapters in books.

Nadeem is deeply committed to strengthening civil society organisations and the charity sector, and throughout his career has focused on improving foundations for future generations and building strong networks. Nadeem has particular expertise working in matters of Learning and Development, especially personal and professional development, combining Islamic principles with modern techniques and interventions. He is also especially interested in psychological perspectives and cognitive distortions. He has designed and delivered training to thousands of people for nearly 3 decades.

As well as individual development and growth, Nadeem has spent 20 years working with organisations to manage and lead people to improve outcomes and efficiencies. He is a Consultant Coach, qualified at ILM Level 5 in Effective Coaching and Mentoring and ILM Level 7 in Executive and Senior Leadership Coaching. He was Chair of the Independent Advisory Group for the Professional Standards Department of West Midlands Police for 4 years, where he was awarded recognition for his ‘Outstanding Work.’

Saqeb Mueen

Director of External Relations and Advocacy

Saqeb joined Islamic Relief in 2025, bringing with him extensive experience in strategic communications and policy engagement. He served for more than two decades at the Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies (RUSI), including eight years as Director of Communications, where he led high-impact media campaigns and worked with major international organisations including the European Union, NATO as well as national governments. Saqeb was also the first Head of Communications for Tech Against Terrorism, an online counter-terrorist organisation backed by the United Nations, where he developed and established its public relations capabilities. Saqeb has advised UK Muslim organisations on communications and public affairs as they foster interfaith initiatives and tackle racism and Islamophobia. Saqeb holds a BA in History from University College London and an MA in War Studies from King’s College London. He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations, is a fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and was a Senior Associate Fellow at RUSI.
Asha Ahmad

Director of People and Culture

Asha joined Islamic Relief in 2025 with the aim of working with colleagues to create an environment where everyone feels valued, empowered, and motivated to contribute meaningfully to our shared mission.

Asha has more than 20 years of experience in HR leadership across a range of industries, holding roles at Thomson Reuters, BMW, Movado Group and others. She is passionate about building strong, resilient teams and fostering positive workplace cultures where individuals are empowered to thrive, contribute and do their best work.

Asha holds a BA in Management, Economics and Law, as well as a BA in Business Studies. She is an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development.

new director

Director of Network and Resource Development

Adnan joined Islamic Relief in 2004 as a regional fundraiser in the UK. He worked in multiple roles over 10 years at Islamic Relief UK, including setting up the first digital team and leading the growth of digital fundraising and engagement. Adnan also led numerous fundraising and marketing campaigns, which played a significant part in the growth of Islamic Relief UK.

Having moved to Islamic Relief Worldwide in 2014, Adnan has held different roles that have helped grow Islamic Relief’s global digital footprint into new geographic territories, supporting Islamic Relief members with their digital and marketing growth as well as developing new products and initiatives for the Islamic Relief family.

Adnan graduated in Industrial Design and Technology from Loughborough University. He has since completed an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration from Durham University and a Diploma in Digital Marketing from the Institute of Data and Marketing.

Nadeem Azhar

General Counsel

Nadeem joined Islamic Relief Worldwide in September 2022. He has worked in the charitable sector for over a decade.

He studied Modern History and Politics at Manchester University, and at the University of Law in London before qualifying as a solicitor in 2011.

Nadeem is an experienced corporate, commercial and governance lawyer, having worked with various faith-based and grant making charities as well those in health and education settings. He was a partner at a law firm in London before moving in-house where he focused on setting up and restructuring charities and social enterprises.

Most recently, Nadeem was Lead Counsel at Mind, a leading mental health charity, where he co-authored a new federation agreement, revamped legal processes, and played a major role in developing its strategic and fundraising partnerships.

Nadeem has been a charity trustee for the Seafarers Charity, as well as many grant-making bodies and theatre companies.

Salaheddin Aboulgasem

Interim Director of Global Family Development

Salaheddin joined Islamic Relief UK in 2006 and over the next 7 years held multiple roles, including Community Fundraiser and Campaigns Manager, before joining Islamic Relief Worldwide in 2013.

Since then, Salaheddin has been instrumental in the launch and growth of new Islamic Relief member offices in Ireland, Spain, Norway and Finland, as well as providing essential support and guidance to existing members, including Italy, where he served as CEO for 3 years.

In 2023, Salaheddin became Deputy Director of Global Family Development and in this role has continued to play a crucial part in steering Islamic Relief’s growth and expansion. He has also led global fundraising and media engagement for major emergencies including the Türkiye-Syria earthquake and Libya floods. Salaheddin became the Interim Director of Global Family Development in 2025.

Salaheddin holds a master’s degree in International Development and is actively involved in several community-led initiatives. He is currently the Vice President of the International Union of Muslim Scouts and Deputy Chair of the UK Muslim Scouts Fellowship as well as Chair of the South Birmingham Muslim Community Association.

Board of Directors
Javed Akhtar

Director of Finance

Javed Akhtar has more than a decade of experience at Islamic Relief, having worked in a similar role between 2003-2014. In that role he strove to implement wide-ranging financial and accounting processes which aided in the transparent nature in which Islamic Relief now operates.

Javed also has diverse experience across the private sector, having worked at American chemicals and pharmaceutical giant DuPont, shipping firm FedEX and technology consultancy company Accenture. In all his roles, he prioritises using the latest technologies to improve monitoring and reporting at every level. Javed’s commitment to embracing digital end-to-end technology, enhancing accountability to our stakeholders and promoting financial transparency is ensuring that we remain at the forefront of financial developments in the sector.

By training, Javed is a chartered accountant with a Master’s degree in NGO Management with Charity Accounting and Financial Management from Cass Business School.
Board of Directors
Affan Cheema  

Director of International Programmes

Affan Cheema is an experienced leader who has spent 25 years working in the international aid sector on poverty eradication in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. He has worked in fast onset emergencies, protracted crisis and development environments whilst working for Islamic Relief Worldwide and Care International. He is also a trustee of South West International Development Network (SWIDN).

Through his career Affan has held numerous roles including institutional fundraising, programme and grant management, and programme quality assurance.  Affan’s leadership has helped Islamic Relief Worldwide secure the highly coveted Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS), seen as the sector’s premier benchmark for operational excellence.

Affan completed his BA in Economics and Geography from University of London (School of Oriental and African Studies) and his MSc in Development Administration and Planning from the University of Bristol. He is PRINCE2 qualified, is a keen sportsman and recently co-edited a book entitled -Islam and International Development: Insights for working with Muslim Communities-.
Board of Directors
Dr Hossam Said

Managing Director, Humanitarian Academy for Development (HAD)

For nearly three decades Dr Hossam has provided the strategic vision to manage, lead and develop a range of international humanitarian interventions around the world.

At the start of his career, Dr Hossam served on the Board of Directors of the Egyptian Medical Syndicate, before moving to Islamic Relief Worldwide to manage the core global business activities as International Programmes Director.

During this time the organisation increased its global reach, gaining both domestic and international repute and credibility. Dr Hossam has also served on the Islamic Relief Worldwide Board of Management and Executive Committee for the past 15 years; sharing responsibility for strategic organisational development and the change management process, whilst forging strong relationships with many other charities.

Dr Hossam gained an MBA from Aston Business School in 2004 and graduated as a Medical Doctor from Cairo University in 1981.
Board of Directors
Martin Cottingham  

Director of External Relations and Advocacy

Martin Cottingham joined Islamic Relief in 2012 as IRUK Media Relations Manager, and was appointed Head of Communications in 2015 before taking up his current position as Director of External Relations and Advocacy for Islamic Relief Worldwide.

Martin has helped Islamic Relief to increase its mainstream media profile and expand its campaigning work, producing hard-hitting advocacy reports on floods in Pakistan (2011) famine in Somalia (2012) disaster risk reduction (2013) and aid to Afghanistan (2014). He has over 20 years’ experience working in media, communications and marketing roles for international development and environmental charities.

Martin graduated from the University of London with a degree in English and Drama (1982-85) then trained as a journalist with a postgraduate diploma at City University (1986-87). He has previously worked for Christian Aid as Editor of Christian Aid News and Media Relations Manager (1988-97) for Oxfam as Regional Campaigns Manager (1997-2000) and at the Soil Association as Marketing Director (2001-2006), as well as working for a wide range of organisations as a freelance writer, researcher and communications consultant.

Tufail Hussain

Director of Islamic Relief UK

Tufail Hussain has 17 years’ experience in the humanitarian and development sector, leading on marketing and fundraising campaigns for several organisations before joining Islamic Relief UK in 2016 as Deputy Director. Tufail was appointed Director of Islamic Relief UK in 2019 and in 2021 provided valuable leadership as interim CEO of Islamic Relief Worldwide.

Tufail is driven by a passion for empowering disadvantaged youth and mentors a number of young people. He also works to strengthen engagement between British Muslims and wider society. Under his leadership, Islamic Relief UK has significantly increased its income and developed successful partnerships with communities across the country. He has travelled around the world to raise awareness of major emergencies such as the Syria, Yemen and Afghanistan crises and the floods in Pakistan and Sudan.

A father to 5 daughters and a son, Tufail is also a sports enthusiast and passionate Liverpool FC supporter. Tufail has run the London Marathon twice, raising over £35,000 for humanitarian causes.

Before joining Islamic Relief he was CEO of Orphans in Need, where he oversaw a new strategy that increased income from £2 million to £9 million in 3 years and opened up new UK and international offices. Tufail is also a trustee of the Muslim Charities Forum and a Director of TIC International (Islamic Relief Worldwide’s clothes recycling and trading arm).
Waseem Ahmad

Chief Executive Officer

Waseem Ahmad joined the Islamic Relief family over 24 years ago, serving as Programme Officer in the Balochistan province of south-western Pakistan before becoming Head of Programmes in Pakistan. Waseem then moved to Oxfam and Tearfund before returning to Islamic Relief to establish our mission in Malawi. Later serving as Head of Programme Funding and Partnerships, Waseem led the response to major crises across the globe, including the East Africa drought, Pakistan earthquake and the Indian Ocean Tsunami.

Waseem then served for nearly 6 years as our Director of International Programmes, during which time the charity secured and retained the coveted Core Humanitarian Standard certification in recognition of the quality of our programming. He was appointed CEO of Islamic Relief in May 2021.

With a special interest in community mobilisation and infrastructure, Waseem received an MSc in Project Planning and Management from the University of Bradford, as well as an MSc in Economics from Arid Agriculture University in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Waseem has also worked for Lepra Health in Action and is a member of the International Civil Society Centre’s Board of Trustees. The father-of-3 enjoys walking and playing football, and is a keen birdwatcher.