Where to Enter Ihram When Flying to Umrah from the UK
Flying from the UK you cross the Miqat in the air. Here is how to prepare on the plane, and what changes if you land in Madinah first.
Every pilgrim must enter Ihram before crossing the Miqat, the boundary around Makkah. When you fly from the UK to Jeddah, you cross that boundary in the air, usually somewhere near the Miqat of Al-Juhfah close to Rabigh, about an hour before landing.
According to the majority of scholars, Jeddah airport itself is inside the boundary for travellers coming from the north and west. That means you should be in Ihram before you land, not after.
If you are flying straight to Jeddah
- Before leaving home: take a bath, trim nails, and men can wear the Ihram cloths under a jacket, or carry them in hand luggage.
- On a connecting flight: many pilgrims change at the connecting airport, such as Istanbul, Doha, Dubai or Cairo, where there are prayer rooms with washrooms.
- On the plane: most airlines flying to Jeddah announce when the Miqat is approaching. Make your intention for Umrah at that point and start the Talbiyah.
- If you are unsure of the timing, make the intention a little early rather than late.
Changing in a small aircraft bathroom is possible, but it is much easier to be dressed before boarding the final flight.
If you are flying to Madinah first
Many packages land in Madinah. In that case you do not need Ihram on the plane. You spend your days in Madinah in normal clothes, then enter Ihram at Dhul Hulayfah, also called Abyar Ali, on the road to Makkah. There is a large mosque there with facilities for bathing and changing.
This option is popular with families and first timers, because you arrive rested and prepare for Umrah calmly.
What if I missed the Miqat?
If you crossed the Miqat without Ihram by mistake, scholars generally advise returning to a Miqat to enter Ihram, or offering a sacrifice (dam) in Makkah if you cannot. This is a question to put to a scholar, and our team can help you find one locally.
A simple checklist for the plane
- Ihram cloths and belt in your hand luggage
- Unscented wipes and toiletries
- Slippers that leave the top of the foot uncovered
- A note of the Talbiyah if you have not memorized it
Quick answers
Can I enter Ihram in Jeddah after landing?
Most scholars say no for travellers arriving from the north and west, because Jeddah is inside the Miqat boundary. Enter Ihram on the plane before landing.
Do I need Ihram if I land in Madinah?
No. Enter Ihram later at Dhul Hulayfah (Abyar Ali) when you travel to Makkah.
Can women enter Ihram on the plane?
Yes. Women make their intention in their normal modest clothing. No special garment is needed.
