Ihram: Rules, Clothing and Restrictions
The sacred state that begins your Umrah — when to enter it, what to wear, and what to avoid.
What is Ihram?
Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim enters before performing Umrah or Hajj. It is marked by a sincere intention (niyyah) together with the Talbiyah. For men it also includes a distinctive dress; for women, ordinary modest clothing.
When do you enter Ihram?
You enter Ihram at the Miqat — the boundary point appointed for pilgrims travelling towards Makkah. If you are flying, you normally enter Ihram before the aircraft reaches the Miqat (often announced on board, or after passing a stated point). Pilgrims already inside the Miqat boundary enter Ihram from where they are.
How to enter Ihram
- Perform ghusl (a full bath) or wudu, and tidy yourself (trim nails, groom) before making the intention.
- Wear the clothing of Ihram.
- Make the intention for Umrah in your heart.
- Begin reciting the Talbiyah and continue until you start Tawaf.
Clothing
Men
Two unstitched white sheets: one wrapped around the waist (izar) and one draped over the shoulders (rida). The head must remain uncovered, and footwear should not cover the ankles. Stitched clothing is avoided.
Women
Ordinary modest clothing that covers the body; the face and hands remain uncovered. Women do not wear the two-sheet garment of men and do not cover the face with a niqab or the hands with gloves while in Ihram.
Restrictions while in Ihram
The Qur’an says: “So let there be no obscenity, no wickedness, nor disputing during Hajj.” — Surah Al-Baqarah 2:197. Based on this verse and the Sunnah (see Sahih al-Bukhari, Kitab al-Hajj), the pilgrim in Ihram avoids:
- Cutting the hair or nails
- Using perfume or scented products on the body or clothing
- Marital relations and anything that leads to them
- Obscene speech, arguing and fighting
- Hunting or harming game
- Contracting a marriage
Men additionally avoid covering the head, wearing stitched clothing, and footwear that covers the ankles.
If you forget or make a mistake
Minor lapses made out of forgetfulness are not the same as deliberate violations. If a restriction is broken, the required response can vary — seek guidance from a qualified scholar or your group’s Mufti.