Ihram Guide for Umrah: Rules for Men and Women

What Ihram means

Ihram is both a state and a set of clothing. The state begins when a pilgrim makes the intention for Umrah at or before the miqat. From that moment, certain everyday actions become forbidden until the Umrah is complete. The simplicity of Ihram is a reminder that every pilgrim stands equal before Allah, whatever their wealth or background.

Ihram for men

Men wear two pieces of unstitched white cloth: the izar, wrapped around the waist and covering from the navel to below the knees, and the rida’, draped over the shoulders. Many men use a belt or money belt to hold the izar securely, which is permitted. Footwear should leave the ankle and the top of the foot uncovered, such as simple sandals or flip-flops.

Men must not cover their heads with anything that touches the head, such as a cap or the edge of the rida’, and must not wear stitched clothing shaped to the body, such as shirts, trousers, underwear or socks. An umbrella for shade is generally permitted.

Ihram for women

Women do not have special Ihram garments. They wear any loose, modest clothing that covers the body, in any colour, together with a headscarf. White is popular but not required. Women may wear normal shoes and socks.

In Ihram, women should not wear the niqab or gloves. Many scholars say a woman may lower a part of her scarf or garment over her face in the presence of non-mahram men, as the wives of the Prophet (peace be upon him) did. Jewellery should be kept discreet.

Things that are forbidden in Ihram

If something forbidden is done by mistake or out of forgetfulness, many scholars hold there is no penalty, but you should stop as soon as you remember. Where a prohibition is broken deliberately or out of need, a compensation (fidyah) may be due. Ask a qualified scholar if this happens.

• Cutting or removing hair from any part of the body.
• Cutting the nails.
• Using perfume or scented products, including scented soap, shampoo, deodorant, wipes and lotions.
• For men, covering the head and wearing stitched, fitted clothing.
• For women, wearing the niqab or gloves.
• Hunting land animals.
• Marriage contracts, and any sexual relations or intimate contact between spouses.
• Arguing, swearing and bad behaviour, which should be avoided at all times but especially in Ihram.

The miqat on UK flights into Jeddah

Pilgrims travelling to Makkah from abroad must enter Ihram before crossing the miqat. For flights from the UK into Jeddah, the aircraft crosses the miqat boundary in the air before landing. Jeddah itself is inside this boundary, so waiting until you land to enter Ihram is not the correct practice according to most scholars.

Because of this, most UK pilgrims prepare for Ihram before their flight. Some airlines announce when the aircraft is approaching the miqat; however, announcements are not guaranteed, so it is wise to have your Ihram on before the flight is due to reach it and to make your intention a little early rather than late.

1. 1

   At home or at the airport

   Take a shower, trim nails and remove unwanted hair, and apply perfume to the body (not the garments) if you wish, before making the intention. Men can change into the Ihram garments before leaving home or at the UK airport.

2. 2

   On the plane

   If you prefer, change on board, but aircraft toilets are small, so many find it easier to change before boarding. Pray two rak’ahs before the flight if it is not a disliked time.

3. 3

   Before the miqat

   Shortly before the aircraft reaches the miqat, make the intention for Umrah and begin reciting the talbiyah. From this moment, the rules of Ihram apply.

Practical Ihram tips

• Pack your Ihram in your cabin bag so it is easy to reach.
• Bring two sets of Ihram for men in case one becomes soiled.
• Use unscented soap, shampoo and deodorant while in Ihram.
• A money belt or Ihram belt keeps the izar secure and your documents safe.
• Safety pins can help keep the rida’ in place.
• Petroleum jelly or an unscented balm can prevent chafing on long walks.

Plan your Umrah with Lumarah

With a Lumarah Umrah package, your return flights land in Jeddah and your hotel in Makkah is already arranged. Add our optional Jeddah Airport to Makkah transfer (£40) and you can travel straight to your hotel and perform your Umrah soon after arriving.

Message our UK team on WhatsApp at +44 7950 739581 or email lumarahtravelagency@gmail.com. Tell us your dates, departure airport and who is travelling, and we will send you a tailored Umrah quote in writing. Nothing is paid on our website: once you are happy with the quote, you pay by UK bank transfer and we confirm everything in writing.

Frequently asked questions