What is Ihram for Muslims in Hajj & Umrah

The word Ihram is derived from the Arabic language, which means forbid”. It refers to a state of purity the pilgrim is required to be in ihram dress to perform Hajj, Umrah or both before entering the perimeter of Makkah. After wearing the Ihram, the pilgrim must abide from such acts that are prohibited. An individual in the state of Ihram is known as a Muhrim, literally meaning “He/she who forbids himself/herself.”

Ihram for men consists of two pieces of cloth but two pieces for women are not required. For men, the colour of ihram clothing should be white, but it is not necessary for women. There is a misconception about the ihram dress. The right concept is two unstitched sheets are called Ihram for men while women can wear normal dresses for their Ihram clothes such as they use in normal lives, but cover the normal dress with an Abyaha is better for them.

There is a difference in the shape of Ihram but wearing rules are same and everyone must enter the state of Ihram before crossing the Miqat. Miqat is another topic but we here only say about this word Miqat that is a fixed place and these are five for upcoming pilgrims from the world. It is no essential to put Ihram after entering the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. People can wear it from Houses and at the airport. Mostly captains of Muslims Flights announce that now we are crossing the Miqat, therefore, put their Ihram but the announcement does not happen in non-Muslims flights. Entering the state of Ihram before crossing Miqaat is valid and compulsory for every man and woman.

Men and women must comb their hair, cut unwanted hair from their body and cut their nails, and it is necessary for men to trim their moustaches.  Taking the bath is a preferred method if there is no water available for bathing then it is necessary to do wudoo. The intention is a very important part of starting any work therefore here pilgrim should make the intention to enter Ihram and say "Labbaika `Umrah (O Allah, in response to Your Call I perform `Umrah)", and for Hajj say "Labbaika Hajjan (O Allah, in response to Your Call I perform `Hajj)".

In the state of Ihram, covering face and hands are prohibited for women by any mask or niqab and gloves. For men, cover their head and feet with any cap and shoes are prohibited.

Wearing perfume is not valid in the state of Ihram for both genders (men and women).

Hunting animals are also prohibited.

Do indulge himself/herself in any sexual activity is prohibited.

Cutting and shaving hair is not permitted after wearing the Ihram but it is permitted before assuming Ihram.

Pilgrims leave their lhram on Umrah after performing the ritual of Sa'i and they can leave it on 3rd day of Hajj (scarification day) in Hajj.