Ihram for men
How do men wear ihram for Umrah?
Brothers wear two clean unstitched sheets: the izar wrapped around the waist, and the rida over the shoulders like a shawl. Sandals must leave the raised bone on top of the foot uncovered. White is best.
Step by step
- Stand with your legs about shoulder width apart, so that once the cloth is tied you have room to walk properly.
- Wrap the lower sheet (izar) around your waist. If it is long enough, wrap two lengths.
- Roll the top edge over and tuck it in, folding about 10 cm at a time. Three folds are usually enough to hold it.
- The izar must cover everything from the navel to the knees. It is sunnah that it does not reach the heels, so let it end between the knee and the top of the ankle.
- Wear the upper sheet (rida) over your upper body like a shawl.
What to leave off
Remove all other clothing, and wear no hat. Glasses, an identity wristband and an umbrella are allowed. A money belt is allowed if you wear it only to keep your money and valuables safe.
Before and after you dress
Bathe first with the intention of ihram, clip your nails and remove unwanted hair. It is sunnah to apply scent to the body, but not to the cloth, before you make the intention.
After dressing, pray two rak'ahs of Salah al-Ihram with the head covered, then uncover the head, make the intention and recite the talbiyah. Read what ihram is for the full picture.
More questions
What colour should the ihram be?
White and clean is best, and new if you can.
Can I wear a belt or money pouch in ihram?
Yes. A money belt is allowed if you wear it only to keep your money and valuables safe.
Can I wear glasses or use an umbrella in ihram?
Yes. Glasses, an identity wristband and an umbrella are all allowed.
Related questions
Read the full guide
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This guide follows the Hanafi method and is based on Shaykh Mufti Wajid Iqbal's Umrah book, Essential Islam. For your own situation, ask a qualified scholar.