The Islamic pilgrimage of Hajj and Umrah are sacred journeys that require entering a state of Ihram, a condition of spiritual purity. To honor the sanctity of these rituals and the Kaaba in Makkah, specific locations known as Miqats have been designated for pilgrims to assume Ihram. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) established these sites to ensure that those intending to perform Hajj or Umrah begin their rites in a state of reverence and devotion.
Miqats serve as spiritual boundaries around Makkah, and their locations vary based on the direction from which pilgrims arrive. For those living beyond these points, it is mandatory to enter Ihram at these Miqats or at a location directly in line with them, regardless of whether they travel by land or air. Passing these points without being in Ihram is not permissible.
The Miqats are situated at different distances from Makkah: Dhul-Hulaifa is 420 km away for those coming from Madina; Al-Juhfah, now represented by Rabigh, is 204 km away for travelers from the Levant; Qarn Al-Manazil, 94 km away, serves those from Najd; Yalamlam, 115 km distant, is for those from Yemen; and Dhat Irq, 92 km from Makkah, is for those coming from Iraq.
For those already in Makkah, Ihram for Umrah is assumed from a nearby location outside the Haram boundary, such as Masjid Aisha in Al Taneem. During Hajj, pilgrims enter Ihram from wherever they are in Makkah. Those situated between Makkah and the Miqats, like Jeddah’s residents, will enter Ihram from their location.
The establishment of Miqats is a profound expression of reverence for the Masjid al-Haram and the holy city of Makkah, ensuring that all pilgrims approach the sacred rites with the appropriate mindset and preparation.