Description of how to perform Hajj on behalf of someone else

A: It is unobjectionable that a Muslim performs Hajj on behalf of another Muslim brother whether a relative or not and whether money is received in return or not. Following is a description on how to perform Hajj on behalf of someone else: You should intend to assume the state of Ihram (ceremonial state for Hajj or `Umrah) on their behalf. While doing so, there is nothing wrong with saying, "O Allah! Labbayka (Here I am at Your Service) on behalf of so-and-so". Thereafter, you should perform the rites intending them to be on behalf of that person. However, one who performs Hajj on behalf of someone else must have performed Hajj for themselves. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) heard a man saying: "O Allah! Labbayka (Here I am at Your Service) on behalf of Shubrumah! The Prophet (peace be upon him) asked him, "Who is Shubrumah?" He replied, "A brother (or a relative) of mine." The Prophet then asked again, "Have you performed Hajj on your own behalf?" The man replied, "No," whereupon the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "You must perform Hajj on your own behalf first, and then you may perform Hajj on Shubrumah's." (Related by Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah and ranked as Sahih [authentic] by Ibn Hibban) (Part No. 10; Page No. 49) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.