The Miqat Points

Introduction

Among the fundamental rites of performing the Umrah pilgrimage. Miqat is an Arabic term denoting a ‘stated place’, and serves as the boundary highlighting the zone where intending pilgrims must enter the state of Ihram before passing it.

Pilgrims are obligated not to cross this boundary without entering into the spiritual state of Ihram, a state of ritual consecration and purity. Any transgressions, such as crossing this boundary without having attained the Ihram state, would necessitate the act of Damm, an animal sacrifice, as a form of expiation. This demarcation underscores the respect and reverence accorded to the holy city of Mecca, and its recognition and compliance are key components to a successful Umrah pilgrimage.

Miqat By Flight (Airline/Plane)

Travelling with a Non-Islamic Airline

If your choice of travel is through an airline like British Airways, there may not be facilities onboard that allow for prayer or dressing changes whilst mid-flight. As such, it is recommended to change into your Ihram at the airport before you embark on your journey or if a connecting flight then consider entering into Ihram whilst at the connecting airport. Remember as you near the Miqat you must make your intention to enter the state of Ihram.

Journey with an Islamic Airline

When travelling with a Muslim airline such as Saudia, you can make use of the small prayer space on the plane during the flight. You will receive a notification, either through the captain’s announcement or a screen message, when you’re approximately 10 to 20 minutes away from the Miqat. If you haven’t changed into your Ihram by this point, it would be appropriate to do so. If you’re hesitant or find it challenging to change into your Ihram onboard, it is recommended to adopt the above strategy of dressing in your Ihram before boarding the flight.

Miqat From Madina

Those planning to visit Madina before heading to Makkah for Umrah can adopt the state of Ihram either at their Hotel accommodation in Madinah or at the specified Miqat for Madinah, which is the Masjid Dhul Hulayfah.

Your taxi or coach service can make a stopover at the Masjid Dhul Hulayfah en route to Makkah if requested.

Miqat From Makkah

In the case that you choose to complete an additional Umrah, it’s necessary to enter the state of Ihram again outside of the Haram boundary prior to reentering Makkah to perform an additional Umrah.

A common and favoured place to assume the state of Ihram is at Masjid Aisha, given its proximity and convenience to Masjid al-Haram. You’ll find available transport services near the mosque to reach this location or you may decide to use a taxi.

The 5 Miqat Points

There are five Miqats in total, four of which are mentioned in the following Hadith narrated by Abdullah ibn Abbas (RA):

Allah’s Messenger ﷺ had fixed Dhul Hulayfah as the Miqat for the people of Madinah; al-Juhfah for the people of Sham; and Qarn al-Manazil for the people of Najd; and Yalamlam for the people of Yemen. So, these (above mentioned) are the Mawaqit for all those living in those places, and besides them for those who come through those places with the intention of performing Hajj and Umrah and whoever lives within these places should assume Ihram from his dwelling place, and similarly the people of Makkah can assume Ihram from Makkah.
[Narrated in Sahih al-Bukhari]

An additional Miqat was affixed during the reign of the second Caliph, Sayyiduna Umar Ibn al-Khattab (RA) I after the towns of Basra and Kufa had been captured. Abdullah ibn Umar (RA) narrates:

When these two towns (Basra and Kufa) were captured, the people went to Umar and said, “O Chief of the faithful believers! The Prophet ﷺ fixed Qarn as the Miqat for the people of Najd, it is beyond our way and it is difficult for us to pass through it.” He said, “Take as your Miqat a place situated opposite to Qarn on your usual way. So, he fixed Dhat Irq (as their Miqat).
[Narrated in Sahih al-Bukhari]

1. Dhul Hulayfah (also known as Abyar Ali)

Positioned 18 kilometers to the southwest of Masjid al-Nabawi ﷺ in Madinah and 410 kilometers (or 255 miles) to the north of Makkah, you’ll find Dhul Hulayfah. This is the established Miqat for both the inhabitants of Madinah and those approaching from the North with the intention of performing Hajj/Umrah, provided they will pass beyond this point.

2. Al-Juhfah (also known as Rabigh)

Situated 182 kilometers (or approximately 113 miles) to the northwest of Makkah, Al-Juhfah serves as the designated Miqat point. It is particularly relevant for individuals planning to perform Hajj/Umrah who are journeying from regions such as North America, Europe, Turkey, Syria, Egypt, Algeria, Sudan, and various other African nations. Additionally, the town of Rabigh, located just north of Al-Juhfah, is another viable location for pilgrims to enter the state of Ihram.

3. Qarn al-Manazil (also known as al-Sayl)

Located 80 kilometers (around 50 miles) to the east of Makkah, you’ll find Qarn al-Manazil. This site serves as the Miqat for inhabitants of Najd and for those journeying from countries including, but not limited to, the U.A.E, Oman, Pakistan, Australia, Malaysia, and Singapore. The city of Ta’if is in the vicinity of this Miqat location.

4. Dhat Irq

Dhat Irq, positioned about 90 kilometers (or roughly 56 miles) to the northeast of Makkah, is the appointed Miqat point. This site serves as the Miqat for those journeying from countries including, but not limited to Iraq, Iran, China, Russia, and others who are on their journey to perform Hajj/Umrah.

5. Yalamlam (also known as al-Sadiah)

Situated 100 kilometers (approximately 62 miles) to the south of Makkah is Yalamlam. This serves as the Miqat for the individuals originating from Yemen and those journeying from southern regions. This Miqat point will be crossed by pilgrims making their way from countries like South Africa, Nigeria, and others.