Hajj Tips That Will Make the Journey Easier
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Hajj in extreme heat is no joke. We have been collecting these tips from real experiences to help you prepare for your blessed journey, from staying cool to keeping comfortable on long walks.
Some of these are small items that cost very little, but they make a huge difference once you are in Mina and Arafah.
1. UV-reflective umbrella
Normally a cap is enough, but in Mina you will be walking for hours with no shade and no trees, just sun. A UV umbrella will be a lifesaver, but not just any umbrella will do. Go for one with a silver-coated exterior. It bounces the heat away and keeps you cooler.
2. Sun hat for head protection
Sisters: a tennis cap or a sun hat protects your face and head. Don't forget your SPF, and make sure it is fragrance free.
Brothers in ihram: you cannot wear anything on your head, so your umbrella becomes even more important. Keep your head shaded as much as possible.
3. A strong fan
Invest in a decent fan. We know someone who bought a cheap one and it couldn't handle the heat. If you are buying a handheld fan, choose one with proper power, as it really matters in a 50°C sun. A portable neck fan is also great.
4. UV sunglasses
Your eyes need protection too. The sun in Makkah is bright and intense, and a good pair of UV sunglasses will save your eyes from strain and squinting. You will feel the difference by the end of the day.
5. Lightweight abaya
Sisters: choose loose, breathable abayas made from super lightweight crepe. Avoid synthetic or thick fabrics that trap heat.
If you wear a light-coloured abaya, it can be see-through, so you will need a beige top and trousers underneath. Make sure these are made from cotton or linen.
- Hayaa Abaya & Hijab: lightweight premium crepe that stays soft and cool in hot weather. The flared cut gives room to move, the full front zip makes it easy to put on and take off, and zipped hidden pockets keep your phone and keys safe. Choose it for an airy abaya that still looks elegant.
- Khayal Abaya & Hijab: a one-piece abaya in a lightweight cotton blend, made to keep you cool in Makkah heat. It has a hidden chest pocket for your phone, passport or cash, wudu-friendly sleeves, and a soft white cotton jersey hijab included. Choose it for the simplest wear-and-go option.
- Yusr Cotton Travel Set: a 100% cotton abaya with matching trousers, so the cotton layer underneath is already sorted. It has a zip pocket, a faux pocket that gives access to your trouser pockets, and elastic cuffs for wudu. The trousers have a front zip pocket and adjustable length. Choose it for a full outfit in one set.
6. Shorts or trousers
Skip the leggings, as they trap heat. Instead, wear cotton shorts or our linen under-abaya trousers. They sit modestly loose, they are airy, and they make a big difference to comfort in the heat.
7. Anti-slip socks
Walking for hours on smooth marble and hot pavements can be tough. Anti-slip socks that are breathable, comfortable and not too tight are a total game changer for Tawaf and long days on your feet.
8. Drawstring bag or backpack
You need something easy to carry your water bottles, snacks and shoes. A strong drawstring bag or a sturdy, lightweight backpack makes it so much easier, especially during the long walks in Mina and Arafah.
9. Large water spray bottle
Forget the tiny mist sprays and bring a proper gardener's spray bottle. Spray yourself and the people near you, and it cools you down instantly. The problem with sprinklers is that the water evaporates before reaching you.
10. Wet flannel (a cool hack for sisters)
In temperatures above 50°C, soak a small flannel in cold water and place it under your hijab before heading out. By the time you reach your destination it will be dry, and it will have helped keep your body temperature down. It is subtle but so effective.
11. ORS tablets (oral rehydration salts)
Don't skip the ORS. Drop one into your water bottle and sip throughout the day. It helps replace what you lose when sweating, because your body loses electrolytes. It is a small tablet that can make a huge difference in that heat.
Please ask your doctor first.
12. Aloe vera and Vaseline
Don't forget about dry skin and eczema. You can use this combination every day: cooled aloe gel will cool your skin, and fragrance-free Vaseline helps with dry lips and flare-ups. It is a gentle combo that works wonders in dry, hot weather.
13. Water bottles
As many as you can carry. Always pack water before heading out, and not just for you. You will see others struggling, and giving them a bottle might be the help they needed that day.
Quick Hajj heat checklist
| Item | Why you need it |
|---|---|
| Silver UV umbrella | Reflects heat in Mina, where there is no shade |
| Sun hat or cap | Protects your face and head |
| Strong fan | Cheap fans can't handle 50°C |
| UV sunglasses | Reduces glare and eye strain |
| Lightweight abaya | Breathable crepe or cotton, not thick or synthetic |
| Cotton or linen trousers | Cooler than leggings |
| Anti-slip socks | Grip on marble and comfort on long walks |
| Drawstring bag | Carries water, snacks and shoes |
| Large spray bottle | Instant cooling |
| Wet flannel | Keeps body temperature down |
| ORS tablets | Replaces lost electrolytes |
| Aloe and Vaseline | Soothes dry skin and lips |
| Water bottles | Extra to share |
Find your Hajj essentials with us
A few of these essentials, such as practical lightweight abayas, trousers and accessories, are available at our boutique. Browse the full Umrah & Hajj collection.
We hope your Hajj journey is safe, smooth and full of barakah. May Allah accept it from you and make every step easy, ameen.
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