Search common actions in the ihram checker to see whether they are allowed in ihram, with short explanations for men and women. It is free, works on any phone and needs no sign-up.
Ihram: allowed or not?
Check common actions against the rules of ihram.
Wearing perfume or scented soap
Not allowed after entering ihram. Use unscented products; perfume applied to the body before ihram may remain.
Cutting hair or nails
Not allowed until you exit ihram with halq or taqsir.
Men covering the head with a cap or turban
Men must leave the head uncovered. Shade from an umbrella or tent is fine.
Men wearing stitched, fitted clothing
Men wear two unstitched sheets. A belt, watch, glasses and sandals are fine.
Women wearing a niqab or gloves
Women may not wear a face veil tied to the face or gloves in ihram; they may lower a cloth over the face in front of non-mahram men.
Showering with unscented soap
Allowed. Avoid scented products and do not deliberately pull out hair.
Changing into a clean ihram sheet
Allowed whenever needed.
Using an umbrella or sitting in shade
Allowed for everyone.
Hunting land animals
Prohibited in ihram.
Marriage contract or proposing marriage
Not allowed while in ihram.
Marital relations
Strictly prohibited until fully out of ihram; it has serious consequences for the rites.
Taking medication
Allowed, including unscented creams.
If you break a rule of ihram by mistake or out of need, ask a qualified scholar about any expiation (fidyah).
Understanding ihram rules
Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim enters for Umrah or Hajj. Once you make your intention at the Miqat, certain everyday actions become forbidden until you complete the rites and cut your hair.
This checker covers the most common questions. For a full explanation, including the differences between men and women and what to do if a rule is broken, read our complete ihram rules guide.
Ihram rules for men and women
| Rule | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing | Two unstitched white sheets | Normal modest clothing |
| Head | Must be uncovered | Covered as usual |
| Face | Uncovered | No niqab tied to the face; may lower a cloth |
| Perfume | Not allowed after intention | Not allowed after intention |
See also the Miqat guide and the Miqat finder.
Tailored quoteTell us your dates, city and hotel preferencesOne short form, a personalised Umrah or Hajj proposal from our travel team — no obligation.Request my quote →Ihram checker: tips before you travel
Open the ihram checker page on your phone before you leave home and add it to your home screen. That way it opens instantly in Makkah or Madinah, even when the mobile signal inside the Haram is weak. All our tools are designed for one-handed use, with large buttons and high-contrast text that stays readable in bright sunlight.
If you are travelling with parents or children, share the link with them too. Families often find it helpful when everyone is looking at the same plan, checklist or dua on their own device, especially when you are separated in the crowds and meet again at a fixed point after prayer.
Privacy and accuracy
The ihram checker runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you enter is sent to us unless you choose to submit a quote request. The religious content is drawn from the Qur’an and well-known hadith collections, and where scholars differ we say so. Rules for visas and permits change, so always confirm the latest details on official platforms such as Nusuk.
Who the ihram checker is for
We built the ihram checker for first-time pilgrims who want reassurance, for experienced pilgrims helping parents or friends, and for group leaders who need a quick reference to share. It is equally useful at home while you prepare and on the road when a question comes up and there is no time to search through long articles.
If something on this page does not match your situation — for example a medical condition, a disability or travel with young children — tell us about it in your quote request. Our advisers will take it into account, and for religious questions we always recommend asking a qualified scholar you trust.
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Learn moreIhram checker: frequently asked questions
Can I use unscented soap in ihram?
Yes. Unscented soap and shampoo are fine.
Can men wear a watch or belt in ihram?
Yes. A watch, belt, glasses and sandals are allowed.
Can women wear socks in ihram?
Yes. Women may wear socks and normal shoes; only gloves and niqab are restricted.
Explore all our free tools for pilgrims.
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