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UK women should enter ihram in modest clothing before flights, as miqat is crossed in the air.
Preparing for Umrah is both spiritually rewarding and practically demanding, particularly when it comes to understanding the proper way to enter ihram. For Muslim women travelling from the UK, specific considerations must be taken into account to ensure your pilgrimage begins correctly and in accordance with Islamic teachings.
Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim must enter before performing Umrah. For women, this includes physical and spiritual readiness. Unlike men’s strict white garments, women have more flexibility, provided modesty is maintained.
Ihram must be entered at specific points called miqat. UK travellers typically pass over these while airborne—usually Juhfah (modern Rabigh) when flying to Jeddah, or Dhul Hulayfah if visiting Madinah first.
Before entering ihram, complete ghusl (ritual bath). Many UK women prefer to do this at home before travel. Also complete personal grooming—trimming nails, removing unwanted hair, and brushing teeth—as these are prohibited once in ihram.
Form your niyyah (intention) for Umrah clearly in your heart. Saying aloud, “Labbayk Allahumma bi Umrah,” can help strengthen your focus. Perform two rak’ahs of prayer if possible—this can be done at home, airport, on the plane, or at miqat.
Women may wear any modest outfit that covers the body (excluding face and hands). Most UK women opt for:
A long-sleeved abaya or dress
Comfortable trousers underneath
A hijab covering the hair
Flat shoes, sandals, or flip-flops
The clothing should be clean and modest. It’s not necessary for it to be unstitched like men’s ihram.
White is preferred but not required. Choose breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen to stay comfortable in Saudi Arabia’s climate. While perfume is allowed before entering ihram, perfumed clothing should be avoided once in the sacred state.
Perform ghusl
Complete grooming
Put on modest clothing
Apply non-clothing perfume
Pray two rak’ahs
Make the intention for Umrah
Begin reciting the Talbiyah:
“Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka la shareeka laka labbayk, innal hamda wan ni’mata laka wal mulk, la shareeka lak”
Women should recite this quietly and continue until reaching the Haram.
Flights from the UK often cross miqat mid-air. Airlines usually announce this, but many seasoned travellers prefer entering ihram before boarding. Reputable cheap umrah pakages providers often advise when and where to enter ihram based on your route.
UK airports like Heathrow or Manchester may not have ideal facilities for ghusl. Many women suggest wearing ihram-appropriate clothing from home and using airport prayer rooms. A personal prayer mat can be helpful.
Staying hydrated, seated comfortably, and travelling with a group can ease the long flight while in ihram. Group travel offers spiritual support and shared reminders of ihram rules.
No cutting hair or nails
Avoid perfumed items
Don’t cover face or hands (unless around non-mahram men)
No intimacy with spouse
No arguing, fighting, or hunting
Women on their period can enter ihram but must delay Tawaf and Sai until menstruation ends and ghusl is performed. Planning ahead is key, especially when booking december umrah pakages during shorter winter breaks.
While women should keep their face uncovered during ihram, covering it loosely (without touching the skin) is allowed around non-mahram men.
Continue regular prayers and engage in dhikr. Many women find the state of ihram deepens their spiritual focus and enhances the Umrah experience.
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