Ihram Simplified: How to Enter, What to Wear & What to Pack
Entering the state of Ihram opens your heart to devotion, humility, and focus on Allah. Here’s how it shapes every step of your Hajj and Umrah.
Entering the state of Ihram opens your heart to devotion, humility, and focus on Allah. Here’s how it shapes every step of your Hajj and Umrah.
Every year, Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia attracts millions of Muslims from diverse backgrounds and cultures. But one thing remains the same: Ihram and the sacred pilgrimage.
The state of Ihram is more than just a dress code for Makkah – it’s a state of mental preparedness to stand before Allah, the Creator. Ihram is the very first necessary step before performing Hajj or Umrah. Essentially, Umrah is a shorter version of Hajj that can be performed at any time and multiple times throughout the year, whereas Hajj has a specific season and purpose behind it (but we’ll save that story for another time).
Both journeys have one thing in common: seeking forgiveness for past transgressions, repentance, and the intention of connecting with God. In Islam, repentance and seeking forgiveness are closely connected yet not quite the same. Repentance means turning away from wrongdoing with the sincere intention of not returning to it. Seeking forgiveness, on the other hand, is asking Allah for pardon and mercy. In Islam, genuine repentance includes both steps: asking for forgiveness and making a conscious effort to change.
With that distinction in mind, let’s explore the meaning of Ihram, how to prepare for it, and where to stay during this sacred journey.
Ihram refers to the sacred state a pilgrim enters before performing Hajj or Umrah. But spiritually, it’s more than just a physical state. The word Islam in Arabic translates to “submission” or “surrender” to Allah. Ihram is a physical embodiment of that commitment – a letting go of life’s mundane concerns to focus on submission to Allah.
Ihram clothing is simple yet deeply symbolic: men must wear two seamless white garments, while women dress in modest attire that fully covers the hair and body. Women can wear neutral colors such as black, white, or navy, provided that the clothing is modest and loose. For both men and women, the face and hands remain uncovered at all times.
So, when does one actually enter the state of Ihram? The answer depends on your journey. Pilgrims can don their Ihram clothing before crossing a Miqat, which is a designated boundary point that can differ depending on your route to Makkah. For instance, if you’re traveling from Madinah, you’ll pass the Miqat at Dhul Hulaifah, which was designated by Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) and is believed to be the location where He entered the state of Ihram before performing Umrah after the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah.
This is where you must change into your Ihram clothing and set your intention to perform Hajj or Umrah. (We’ll explain exactly what to say for intention-setting in just a moment). You can also enter the state of Ihram before flying or driving to Makkah. From this moment on, you’re in a sacred state. That means refraining from certain actions like cutting hair or nails, using perfume, or arguing. This mindfulness prepares you for a deeper connection to Allah.
Pilgrims can (and usually do) enter the state of Ihram while flying. For flights through Jeddah, it is both common and recommended to set your intention and wear the Ihram onboard, since most routes cross close to or directly over the Miqat. Most regional carriers, especially those based in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, or Turkey, announce when the Miqat is approaching during the flight. This makes it easier for pilgrims to prepare and recite the Talbiyah – which we will explain how to say next.
It’s recommended to purchase Ihram clothing from your home country or city so you’re not rushed or scrambling to prepare while in Saudi Arabia. Nonetheless, you’ll find plenty of options to purchase clothing for Hajj and Umrah before Miqat stations, airports, or in local markets in Jeddah, Makkah, or Madinah. Many vendors sell affordable and comfortable Ihram sets, along with belts and accessories for carrying items securely. Just make sure you enter the state of Ihram – clothing and all – before physically crossing the Miqat border. You can also read more about what to wear on our guide here.
If you’re planning to stay in Makkah, base yourself at any Accor-brand hotel for both proximity and practical convenience.
For both Umrah and Hajj, make sure to pack your passport, visa, and travel documents if applicable. Remember to bring comfy footwear (you’ll be doing a lot of circling, or tawaf, around the Kaaba). Your Quran and prayer notes, in case you aren’t able to memorize everything, will also come in handy. For women, it’s essential to pack hijab or hair covering. Wearing loose, modest attire throughout the trip (not just while performing Umrah or Hajj) helps you preserve your energy and focus on the spiritual journey at hand. It also helps one blend in like a local in Makkah and Medina.
Don’t forget a first-aid kit, fragrance-free toiletries, and any necessary medications. Staying hydrated is going to be crucial whether you’re completing Umrah in the warmer months or in winter, so pack a reusable water bottle. Consider including healthy snacks, and bringing a secure and compact cross-body bag for your essentials.
Whether you’re reading this because you’ve decided to take your first steps towards Umrah or trying to navigate how to guide others on their path, entering the state of Ihram is one of the most spiritually moving moments in this sacred journey. May Allah make your preparations smooth, your heart calm, and your steps blessed every step of the way.
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