Umrah is a lesser form of Hajj that is not obligatory on an individual but a preferred Sunnah. It is a beautiful form of worship that takes you closer to Allah. If you get a chance to go for Umrah & perform the Umrah rituals, acknowledge the fact that it is a great blessing that the Almighty has bestowed upon you. Umrah was performed twice by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in his lifetime. It is a spiritual journey which has many rewards in this life and the Hereafter.
Umrah-ul-Mufradah: This form of Umrah is performed all throughout the year except in the days of Hajj. It is independent of Hajj and performed any time of the year.
Umrah-ul-Tamattu: This form of Umrah is performed in conjunction with Hajj during the time of Hajj but before the commencement of Hajj rituals i.e. before 8th Dhul Hijjah.
Note: There is no difference in the procedure of the two kinds of Umrah pilgrimage. In both Umrah-ul-Mufradah and Umrah-ul-Tamattu, it is obligatory to assume Ihram at the Meeqat. If a person is in Makkah and intends to perform Umrah-ul-Mufradah, it is permissible for him to come out of Haram to assume Ihram and not move to meeqat. He can wear Ihram at Hudaybiyyah, Ja'ranah or Tan'eem.