The Ultimate Guide to Performing Umrah Ihram Garments
You will then get changed into your Ihram garments which for men consist of two, normally white, clean seamless pieces of cloth. The sheet which wraps around the waist covering the lower body is known as the izar, and the sheet that is draped over the upper body like a shawl is known as the rida. Sandals shouldn’t cover the heel and ankle. The Hanafi school of thought stipulates that the top part of the foot should also remain exposed.
Ensure you put on your Ihram attire before crossing the designated Miqat. Where you wear the garments depends on your point of departure and your destination.
If you’re travelling to Makkah via Jeddah on an aeroplane, it is advisable to get changed into your Ihram at home or at the airport before departure or during a stopover if you have one. At the airport, you can check in first and get changed in the prayer room or bathroom. Alternatively, you can put on your Ihram in-flight although bear in mind that aeroplane bathrooms are usually very limited in space, and there may well be a rush of people intending to do the same thing as the Miqat approaches. If you decide to change into your Ihram attire on the plane, do so at least an hour before the Miqat is crossed. Opting to get changed mid-flight is the least recommended option.
If you’re going to Madinah before Makkah, you don’t need to enter into the state of Ihram and may wear regular clothing during your stay there. Before leaving for Makkah, you should don the Ihram at your hotel in Madinah or the designated Miqat for Madinah, Masjid Dhul Hulayfah. The taxi/coach will stop at the mosque on the way so you can enter into Ihram there if you need to do so. If you’re taking the train to Makkah, you should put on your Ihram at the hotel or at the train station prior to departure.
You may delay making your intention until the Miqat approaches. Just before crossing, remove any articles of clothing that you may still be wearing that violate the conditions of Ihram, such as socks, headw