Ihram Rules & Prohibitions

A clear guide on what is strictly forbidden, what is allowed, and gender-specific rules when in the sacred state of Ihram.

Fiqh & Rulings

Scent & Perfume

Applying any fragrance to the body, hair, or Ihram garments. This includes scented soaps, scented wet wipes, and scented shampoos.

Cutting Hair or Nails

Clipping nails or cutting/plucking hair from any part of the body. (If hair falls out naturally while washing/scratching gently, it is excused).

Marriage Proposals

Contracting a marriage, proposing marriage, or acting as an agent for a marriage contract while in the state of Ihram.

Intimacy

Any form of sexual intimacy or intercourse with one's spouse. This is the most severe violation and nullifies the Hajj/Umrah entirely.

Hunting

Hunting, killing, or assisting in hunting any wild land animal. (Fishing is permitted).

Cutting Trees in Haram

Cutting down or uprooting green trees or plants within the sacred boundaries of Mecca.

Bathing & Showering

Taking a shower or bath to cool down or clean oneself, provided you use unscented soap and do not scrub vigorously to pull out hair.

Using an Umbrella

Holding an umbrella or seeking shade under a roof, tent, or car, as long as the umbrella does not rest directly on a man's head.

Wearing Glasses & Watches

Wearing prescription glasses, sunglasses, a wristwatch, a ring, a hearing aid, or a money belt.

Miswak & Toothpaste

Using a Miswak. Most scholars also permit unscented or standard toothpaste if care is taken not to swallow it or cause bleeding.

Washing/Changing Ihram

If your Ihram garments become dirty, you can wash them. You can also completely change into a new set of clean Ihram garments.

Killing Harmful Pests

Killing harmful insects or animals that pose a threat (e.g., scorpions, snakes, rabid dogs, mosquitoes).

Men: Stitched Clothing

Men are strictly forbidden from wearing clothing tailored to fit the shape of the body or limbs (shirts, trousers, underwear, socks). They must wear the two unstitched sheets.

Women: Normal Clothing

Women do not wear the two white sheets. They wear their normal, modest Islamic clothing (which can be stitched) of any color.

Men: Covering the Head

Men cannot wear anything that rests directly on and covers the head, such as a Kufi, cap, turban, or hat.

Women: Face Veils & Gloves

Women must not wear a tailored face veil (Niqab) that ties around the face, nor can they wear gloves. If non-mahram men are near, they may drape a cloth over their face from their head.

Men: Footwear

Men should wear sandals or slippers that leave the ankle bones and the top of the foot (instep) exposed. Fully closed shoes are forbidden.

Women: Footwear

Women are permitted to wear socks and closed shoes.