For every Muslim woman, going on the sacred journey of Umrah is a deeply spiritual experience.
Despite the fact that your intentions and prayers hold the most value, modesty and comfort in your attire also play a significant role in making the experience fulfilling.
If you’re a woman going for Umrah, it’s smart to know and understand what to wear underneath your abaya.
It will help you stay focused during your pilgrimage rituals, avoid discomfort, and maintain proper Islamic attire throughout your spiritual journey.
So, stick with us, as we have curated a guide packed with practical outfit ideas, packing tips, and seasonal suggestions tailored for women making Umrah.
Why Choosing the Right Outfit Under Your Abaya Matters?
During Umrah, women often perform extended hours of walking, praying, and engaging in spiritual activities.
Since Makkah has a hot climate, what you wear underneath your abaya directly impacts your temperature regulation, comfort, and movement.
While Umrah packages cover flights and accommodations, clothing that supports your physical and spiritual needs is only in your hands.
Therefore, it is important to wear proper undergarments, breathable abayas, and appropriate footwear so that you don’t experience any of these: chafing, overheating, or feeling weighed down.
After all, choosing clothes wisely not only helps you stay focused on your journey but also allows you to perform every ritual with ease.
What to Wear Under an Abaya for Umrah? (Hot Weather)
Hot weather is the most common condition pilgrims face, and when it’s the peak season, imagine what it would feel like to wear something that’s no less than a struggle.
For that reason, what you wear under your abaya can determine how cool and comfortable you will remain throughout the day.
Here are some ideas for what you can wear under your abaya in hot weather.
Lightweight Slip Dresses and Breathable Inner Layers
In hot climates, light cotton clothing, like slip dresses made from bamboo or modal, work perfectly well under an abaya, because they’re soft, breathable, and don’t cling to the skin.
Another clothing piece you may consider is a full-length dress with a relaxed fit to ensure both airflow and modesty.
In addition, short-sleeved or sleeveless base layers also work well, but make sure your abayas are not sheer.
Apart from these body layers, you can add an under scarf to keep your hair secure and safe from overheating.
Loose Cotton Trousers and Tops
Choosing wide-legged cotton trousers and loose-fit tops that don’t stick to the body is another great option.
This pair allows airflow and reduces heat retention. As a bonus tip, opt for neutral tones.
These tones are preferable because they avoid attracting sunlight.
Well, to maintain consistency, when you think about what you should wear under an abaya is all about choosing pieces that pair well with your Umrah abayas.
Best Fabrics for Hot Weather (Cotton, Linen, Bamboo)
Loose fitting matters, but so does the fabric. Synthetic fabrics are known to trap heat and sweat.
So, avoid wearing any clothing piece that is made up of synthetic fibre.
Which fabric can you wear instead? You can go for:
- Cotton, because it’s soft and moisture-wicking
- Linen, because it’s light and airy
- Bamboo, because it’s naturally antimicrobial and temperature-regulating
These mentioned fabrics do not only help you stay dry, but they also reduce skin irritation that occurs from long hours of wearing layers.
What to Wear Under an Abaya for Umrah in Winter?
As we have dealt with layers and clothing that you can wear under an abaya during hot weather, let’s now explore the best clothing ideas for cool weather too.
During the winter season, Makkah and Madinah can become unexpectedly chilly, and it is particular during mornings and nights.
Thus, your under-abaya attire must balance modesty with warmth.
Thermal Leggings and Long-Sleeved Base Layers
The first thing you cannot ignore is thermal innerwear. It provides excellent insulation.
You can choose fleece-lined leggings and full-sleeved tops to wear under your abaya.
These will help you maintain body heat while keeping you discreet and comfortable too.
Layering Tips for Chilly Evenings
To stay warm on chilly evenings during Umrah, the secret lies in smart layering.
You can add a thick, towel-like cloth over your thermal base.
It gives you extra warmth, but it makes the abaya appear bulky.
In case you don’t want it to appear like that, stick to thin but warm layers.
A good way to keep your neck and shoulders warm is by wearing an inner hoodie or a shawl under your hijab.
Can You Use a Blanket or Shawl in Ihram?
Since there are certain instructions for wearing Ihram, a common question arises if you can use a blanket or shawl.
The good news is, women are allowed to cover themselves with a shawl or blanket while wearing ihram, especially if they feel cold.
However, you need to make sure that it doesn’t resemble the male ihram (two white sheets) and that your dress remains modest.
Recommended Umrah Clothes for Ladies for Specific Scenarios
Since Umrah holds immense blessings, planning your trip to perform Umrah comes with numerous questions, as pilgrims don’t want to violate any rules and make the most of the opportunity.
Therefore, here are some recommended Umrah clothes for women, considering specific situations in mind.
What to Wear on the Plane to Makkah?
On the plane to Makkah, wear a comfortable yet modest outfit, such as a loose tunic with cotton pants.
You can also wear a long slip dress.
If you prefer changing mid-flight, pack an abaya in your carry-on.
More importantly, wear abayas that are wrinkle-resistant and breathable.
What to Wear During Tawaf and Sa’i
Since rituals like Tawaf and Sa’i involve extensive walking, comfort is crucial.
Thus, go with moisture-wicking, light cotton clothing under a breathable abaya.
Moreover, your shoes are your great support, so make sure you wear the ones that have slip-resistant soles and cushioned footwear.
It saves you from fatigue and injury.
Ideal Outfits for Hotel, Ziyarat & Rest Days
Your Umrah experience isn’t limited to rituals. You have ziyarat and rest days too.
On rest days or while visiting historical sites, selecting long tunics, abayas, and relaxed-fit trousers is best.
You can keep extra undergarments handy and carry a light shawl in case of sudden weather changes.
Bonus Tips: Packing Smart for Under-Abaya Clothing
Packing Checklist for Ladies
To make it easier, here’s a handy checklist.
- 3-4 breathable abayas
- 2-3 full-length slip dresses
- 2-3 pairs of wide-leg cotton trousers
- 5-6 modest tops
- 7+ sets of undergarments
- 1 pair of shoes for rituals
- 1 pair of kot or slippers for the hotel
- 1 light shawl or thick towel-like cloth
- Thermal wear (for winter Umrah trips)
Laundry, Storage & Reuse Tips
Let’s admit it. You can’t avoid laundry, especially if you’re heading for an extended trip or a trip where you can face extreme weather.
For that reason, it would be smart to pack fast-drying clothes. That way, you can easily rinse and reuse outfits.
Sometimes, hotel rooms lack laundry services in basic packages, so carry travel detergent with you.
It will help you avoid the hassle of buying one.
Lastly, everyone wants to save space in their luggage.
Roll clothes to save space. It will also avoid wrinkles.
So, it keeps you safe from ironing it.
Footwear Tips for Umrah
Choosing footwear that supports long-distance walking is always a great idea.
In that case, slip-on shoes or cushioned sandals are ideal.
Apart from this, avoid high heels or hard soles.
Many Umrah packages don’t emphasise this, but good footwear can make or break your pilgrimage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Wear a Bra During Umrah?
Yes, you can. Choose a seamless, wireless bra if you want maximum comfort. Moisture-wicking and breathable materials work best.
Can I Wear Leggings Under the Abaya?
Yes, but opt for leggings that are full-length and non-transparent. For winter Umrah, thermal leggings are ideal.
How Many Abayas Should I Pack?&
For a journey spanning more than a week, pack at least 3-4 abayas. You can choose different colours to match your undergarments and shoes.
What Colours Are Best for Under-Abaya Wear?
Neutral shades like beige, white, and grey are versatile and keep you cool. Another good reason for using neutral shades is that they reduce the visibility of sweat stains.
Conclusion: What to Wear Under Abaya for Umrah
Choosing what to wear under your abaya isn’t just about style; it’s about staying focused, comfortable, and modest throughout your Umrah journey.
From selecting the right undergarments to planning for both hot and winter conditions, every detail matters.
So, be intentional with your clothes, footwear, and layering strategies so you can immerse yourself fully in the pilgrimage.
