Do’s and don’ts in ihram.

What is ihram?

Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim enters at the miqat with the intention of Umrah and the talbiyah. The two white sheets are only the clothing — the ihram itself is the intention.

What men wear

• Two unstitched white sheets: one around the waist (izar), one over the shoulders (rida).
• The head stays uncovered.
• Sandals or slippers that leave the top of the foot uncovered.
• A belt, money pouch, watch, glasses and a ring are allowed.

What women wear

• Normal, loose, modest clothing in any plain colour — no special ihram dress.
• The face and hands are not covered with a niqab or gloves; a woman may lower part of her scarf in front of her face in front of non-mahram men.

Not allowed in ihram

• Perfume on the body or clothes, and scented soap or cream.
• Cutting or removing hair or nails.
• Men: stitched clothing shaped to the body, and covering the head.
• Women: niqab and gloves.
• Hunting, marital relations, and arguing or bad speech.

Allowed in ihram

• Bathing and washing with unscented soap.
• Changing into a clean ihram.
• Sitting under shade, an umbrella or in a car.
• Using medicine, a plaster, or a seat belt.

If you make a mistake

If something happens by forgetfulness or ignorance, stop it as soon as you remember. Some mistakes need a compensation (fidyah or dam), and the details differ between schools of fiqh. Ask your guide or a scholar — on our trips, Ustadh Muzammil is with the group to answer these questions on the spot.