You prepare your Omra and you wonder which outfit to wear ?

YOU prepare your Omra and you wonder what outfit to wear? Between the qamis and the ihram, it is easy to get lost. Discover what differentiates these two Muslim garments as well as their use during the pilgrimage to Mecca.

The qamis, a traditional everyday outfit

First of all, whether you call it a qamis, thobe or dishdasha, it is a long tunic worn by many Muslims. Indeed, this loose and comfortable garment usually goes down to the ankles. Moreover, made of lightweight cotton, it is particularly suitable for hot climates.

In the context of Umrah, the qamis is often worn by pilgrims outside of specific rites. Thus, it offers a decent and respectful outfit, in accordance with the spiritual atmosphere of the holy places. In addition, its practicality makes it a popular choice for travel and moments of rest.

Ihram, ritual clothing of Umrah

The ihram, on the other hand, refers to both a spiritual state and the attire worn during the rites of Umrah. For men, it consists of two pieces of unsewn white cloth: one wrapped around the waist (izar) and the other draped over the shoulders (rida).

Furthermore, this garment symbolizes the equality of all pilgrims before Allah, erasing social and material distinctions. It is important to note that the ihram must be donned before entering the state of sanctification and crossing the boundaries of the sacred territory (miqat).

When to wear qamis and ihram during Umrah?

The distinction between these two outfits is crucial to correctly perform the rites of Umrah:

• Before the miqat: Pilgrims can wear their usual qamis.
• At the miqat: This is where men put on the ihram to enter into a state of sanctification.
• During rituals: Ihram should be worn during tawaf (circumambulation around the Kaaba) and sa'i (walking back and forth between Safa and Marwa).
• After the end of the rites: Once the Umrah is completed, the qamis once again becomes the preferred outfit.

Practical advice for using them properly

To get the most out of these two garments during your Umrah, here are some recommendations:

• First, choose a short sleeve qamis or in breathable fabric to stay comfortable in the Mecca climate.
• Second, plan on having several qamis so you can change regularly.
• Next, make sure your ihram is of good quality to avoid any transparency issues.
• Also, learn how to tie your ihram correctly before you leave to avoid any problems on site.
• Finally, do not hesitate to ask for help from guides or experienced pilgrims if you have any doubts about how to wear the ihram.

In conclusion, whether you are a novice or a seasoned pilgrim, keep in mind that the most important thing is your intention and devotion. The outfit is just a way to put yourself in the best possible frame of mind to accomplish this spiritual journey.