A Woman’s Guide to Wearing Ihram While Travelling for Hajj or Umrah
The journey of Hajj or Umrah is one of the most sacred experiences a Muslim woman can take. It’s a time of purification, devotion, and surrender to Allah ﷻ. But when it comes to preparing for Ihram — especially while travelling by plane — some sisters are unsure about what to wear, when to enter Ihram, and how it differs from men.
This guide is for you — the mother, the daughter, the sister preparing to embark on a journey of a lifetime. Whether you’re flying to Jeddah or Madinah, this blog explains how and when to wear Ihram as a woman, what rules apply, and how to make the process smooth and spiritually enriching.
What Does Ihram Mean for Women?
Unlike men, women do not wear the two unstitched white cloths. Instead, Ihram for women is a state, not a specific uniform. It begins when a woman:
1. Makes her intention (niyyah) for Hajj or Umrah
2. Recites the Talbiyah
From that moment, she is in Ihram and must observe its conditions.
A woman can wear any modest, loose-fitting clothes that do not attract attention. These can be stitched garments like a simple abaya, khimar, or jilbab. The key is not to wear perfume or scented products, and to avoid overly decorative clothing.
There is no requirement to wear white — though some women choose light colours for symbolism or ease.
Can Women Cover Their Face in Ihram?
This is a common concern. The answer is:
1. Women must not wear a niqab (face covering that is stitched or tied).
2. But they can cover their face using their khimar or scarf — by lowering it loosely from above when non-mahram men are present.
This is based on the practice of the wives of the Prophet ﷺ, who used their headscarves to veil their faces without tying anything directly.
When Should You Enter Ihram on a Plane?
If you're flying into Jeddah, you will cross the miqat in the air. That means you must make your intention and recite the Talbiyah before crossing.
Most Islamic airlines like Saudia Airlines will announce when the miqat is approaching — typically around 30–45 minutes before. You can make your intention at that time, even while seated, and begin reciting the Talbiyah softly:
Labbayka Allahumma Umrah
Labbayka Allahumma labbayk…
If you’re not flying with an Islamic airline, be prepared by estimating when the miqat will be crossed and make your intention slightly earlier to be safe.
Can I Change Into My Clothes at Jeddah Airport?
Yes — but only if you’ve already made your intention and entered Ihram in-flight.
Since women wear normal stitched clothing, there’s no special Ihram outfit to change into. But you may wish to adjust your scarf, abaya, or freshen up at Jeddah Airport, especially after a long flight.
The key point is:
You must be in the state of Ihram before crossing the miqat, even if you intend to tidy up or layer clothing later.
If You’re Flying to Madinah First
If your flight lands in Madinah, you do not need to enter Ihram during the flight. Madinah is not a miqat point.
You can travel in regular clothes and prepare for Ihram later when you leave Madinah for Makkah. The designated miqat is Dhul-Hulayfah (Abyar Ali) — and many group organisers or taxi drivers will stop there for you to make your intention and pray two rak’ah before continuing.
This is often the easiest and most comfortable route for women.
How to Make Your Journey More Comfortable
Here are some practical tips tailored to sisters:
1. Wear layers: Flights can be cold, but Ihram requires you to avoid stitched gloves and socks. Layer wisely with an open abaya and a simple long-sleeve underdress.
2. Fragrance-free: Avoid using any scented products, even soap or wipes, once you intend to enter Ihram. Use unscented hygiene products to be safe.
2. Travel light but smart: Carry a small bag with your essentials. The Hajj Safe bag for women is discreet, lightweight, and designed with female pilgrims in mind.
3. Hydration and rest: Bring water and snacks, especially if you're prone to low energy. Remember, this is a physical and spiritual journey — pace yourself.
What Is Forbidden in Ihram for Women?
Once you have entered Ihram, avoid:
1. Applying any perfume, scented lotions, or makeup
2. Cutting hair or nails
3. Engaging in marital intimacy
4. Wearing stitched gloves or niqab
5. Expressing anger, arguments, or impatience
This is a time for stillness, patience, and remembering Allah ﷻ.
How Hajj Safe Can Support You on This Journey
Hajj Safe offers practical products designed with your needs in mind. For sisters, we recommend:
1. Hajj & Umrah Bag for Women – lightweight, secure, and discreet
2. Drawstring Shoe Bag – perfect for keeping your shoes with you in the masjid
3. Unscented toiletries and wipes – keep you fresh while staying compliant
Everything is designed to support your safety and worship — so you can focus on what truly matters.
Final Reflections
Dear sister, your journey to the House of Allah is an honour. And your preparation — from Ihram to intention — is part of the ibadah. The simplicity of Ihram reminds us that our beauty lies not in our appearance, but in our sincerity, our patience, and our obedience.
As you wrap yourself in modesty and whisper Labbayk, know that you are answering the call that Ibrahim عليه السلام once made. May Allah accept your Umrah or Hajj, grant you ease, and allow you to return purified like the day you were born. Ameen.