The Ihram Guide
Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim enters before Umrah, marked by simple clothing, a clear intention (niyyah) and the Talbiyah. It must be entered at the appointed boundary (Miqat) before reaching Makkah.
What to wear
Men wear two pieces of plain, unstitched white cloth — one wrapped around the lower body (izar) and one over the upper body (rida) — with the head left uncovered. Women wear ordinary modest clothing that covers the body, keeping the face and hands uncovered (no niqab or gloves), and cover the hair as usual.
It is recommended to shower, be clean, and (before entering Ihram) apply perfume to the body — but not to the Ihram cloth itself, as using perfume is not allowed once in Ihram.
Restrictions of Ihram
While in Ihram a pilgrim does not cut hair or nails, does not use perfume, does not engage in marital relations, and does not hunt or harm living creatures. Men do not cover their heads or wear stitched clothing. Arguing and foul speech should also be avoided.
Step by step
- 1
Purify & prepare
Shower, wear the Ihram, and (for men) apply perfume to the body beforehand.
- 2
Make the intention
At the Miqat, form the intention for Umrah in your heart.
- 3
Begin the Talbiyah
Recite: Labbayk Allāhumma labbayk, labbayka lā sharīka laka labbayk, inna al-ḥamda wa n-niʿmata laka wa l-mulk, lā sharīka lak.
Common questions
Where do I enter Ihram?
At the Miqat — the appointed boundary before Makkah. On flights from Pakistan this point is reached in the air, so your group leader will tell you when to change into Ihram and make the intention.