Hajj pilgrimage is the last yet one of the five essential pillars of the Islamic faith. For every able Muslim, Hajj is obligatory to be performed at least once in their lifetime. For this reason, hundreds of thousands of Muslims travel with their 5 star hajj packages and offer the holy rituals in Makkah. Hajj is observed annually during the month of Dhu-al-Hijjah with the rituals officially commencing on the 8th of Dhu-al-Hijjah and ending on the 12th of Dhu-al-Hijjah.
For the hajj pilgrimage, pilgrims have to abide by certain rules and regulations which are specified in the sunnah. Among them, wearing Ihram clothing is the first necessity. Since it’s not something that we wear on a daily basis, one must get educated on all its dos and
don’ts.
Here’s a brief guide on what women pilgrims should wear during hajj.
Face coverings can’t be worn.
During Hajj, it’s not permissible for women pilgrims to cover their faces (wearing a veil) and cover their hands (wearing gloves); evident from the Hadith of our Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (SAWW) as well. Therefore, women must avoid wearing any sort of niqab or any other piece of clothing that covers their face or hands while in the state of Ihram.
Ihram clothing.
Unlike men, women can wear stitched clothes for their Ihram. In addition, there’s isn’t a specific dress code for women pilgrims for their Ihram; they may wear anything their desire. However, it should remain as per the teachings of Islam. For this reason, many women prefer wearing an ‘Abaya’ out of caution during the hajj rituals and thus avoid any sort of confusion.
The best Fabric.
Since Makkah lies in a hot climatic region, choosing a cotton-blended or mixed fabric for Ihram clothing is the best option. As it would not only keep you cool and airy but also helps in avoiding skin rashes and sunburns that might result due to sweating or harsh sunlight.
Color.
Light colors should be opted for as they would also help in resisting the effects of heat. However, one must keep in mind that the fabric and its color should be such that it does not reveal your body or any of its parts under bright sunlight.
Head covering is necessary.
For women in Ihram, their heads must remain covered at all times. Thus, it’s advised to wear a Hijab with an under-scarf cap. Especially if you don’t know much about properly wearing Hijab, it’s advised that you learn and practice wearing it before your departure for hajj.
Can jewelry be worn?
Women, in the state of ihram, are allowed to wear ornaments and jewelry. It’s mentioned in the Islamic teachings that Umm-al-Mu’minin Hazrat Aishah (RA) used to not consider anything wrong with a Muhrimah (woman pilgrim) wearing jewelry in Ihram.
These are some of the basic tips for women’s clothing during hajj.
