Umrah Travel Guide: Understanding the Importance of Miqat Points

Donning Ihram at the Right Time: A Crucial Aspect of Umrah

Question: I am in Saudi, and some acquaintances of mine are coming to Jeddah for Umrah. I have booked a hotel for them in Makkah. My plan is for them to arrive in Jeddah, then shift to the hotel in Makkah, rest a bit, and then we will take them to Ta’if to don the Ihram at the Miqat and perform Umrah afterward. Is this arrangement permissible?

Answer: This arrangement is not permissible because the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has designated five Miqat points for all those coming from around the world for Hajj or Umrah. Those intending to perform Hajj or Umrah must pass through one of these five Miqat points and don their Ihram there before proceeding to Makkah. Therefore, you should advise your people to wear the Ihram garment before boarding the flight. When their flight approaches the Miqat point near Ta’if, they should make the intention for Umrah, as this intention marks the donning of the Ihram. They should recite the Talbiyah throughout the journey. Once they reach Jeddah, they can be shifted to the hotel in Makkah, where they may rest. However, they must remain in the state of Ihram and avoid the prohibitions of Ihram. When ready to perform Umrah, take them to Masjid al-Haram to complete their Umrah.

✍ Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi (Hafizahullaah)  

Jeddah Dawah Center – As-Salamah – Kingdom of Saudi Arabia