IS PERFORMING UMRAH SUNNAH OR WAAJIB?

For those who are financially and physically capable, performing Umrah once in a lifetime is considered a Sunnat-eMu’akkadah (emphasised Sunnah).

It is stated in Fataawa Shaami:

Translation: "Performing Umrah once in a lifetime is an emphasised Sunnah. Once it has been performed, the obligation of this Sunnah is fulfilled, as it is not time-bound, except during prohibited times. However, performing Umrah during Ramadaan is more virtuous." (Fataawa Shaami, Volume 4, Page 260/Zia-ul-Quran Publications, Lahore)

Additionally, it is stated in Fataawa Hindiyyah:

Translation: "According to Shariah, Umrah is defined as visiting the Ka'bah Shareef (to perform the Tawaaf) and performing the Sa’ee (ritual walking) between Safa and Marwah, all while in the state of Ihraam.

It is written in Muheet Sarakhsi that Umrah, according to us, is Sunnah, not obligatory. Performing multiple Umrahs within a year is permissible." (Fataawa Hindiyyah, Volume 1, Page 261, Chapter of Umrah/Darul Kutbul Ilmiyyah, Beirut)