Contents
What is a Miqat?
Miqats are pivotal locations for Muslims undertaking the spiritual journeys of Hajj or Umrah, marking the points where pilgrims must enter into a state of Ihram. This state symbolizes purity and unity among the pilgrims, leveling all distinctions of wealth, status, and culture as they prepare to perform their religious duties in Makkah.
The Five Main Miqats
The five primary Miqat stations are strategically positioned to serve pilgrims coming from different directions:
- Dhul Hulayfah (also known as Abyar Ali) is the Miqat for those coming from or through Madinah, located approximately 12 kilometers southwest of Madinah.
- Al-Juhfah (near Rabigh) serves pilgrims coming from the direction of Europe, North America, and countries to the northwest of Saudi Arabia such as Syria and Egypt, situated around 180 kilometers northwest of Makkah.
- Qarn al-Manazil (also known as As-Sayl al-Kabir), located near Taif, about 81 kilometers east of Makkah, is designated for pilgrims arriving from the direction of Najd region including cities like Riyadh and Dammam and places east of Saudi Arabia like the UAE, Oman, India, Pakistan, and Malaysia.
- Dhat Irq, approximately 110 kilometers northeast of Makkah, serves those coming from the northeast, including Iraq and Iran.
- Yalamlam, located about 108 kilometers southeast of Makkah, is the Miqat for pilgrims coming from Yemen and the southern direction.
Besides these main Miqat locations, there are also specific spots for those within Makkah or nearby areas. One of those is Masjid Aisha.
Also Read: Performing Umrah: Essential Steps for Pilgrims
Masjid Aisha
The Masjid Aisha serves as a significant point for those already in Makkah wishing to perform an additional Umrah. Pilgrims can enter Ihram from this location, the closest and most convenient spot from Al-Masjid Al-Haram, emphasizing the accessibility for residents or those in Makkah to fulfill the rites of Umrah anew.
It’s crucial for pilgrims, especially those flying, to be mindful of entering Ihram before crossing the Miqat zone, with airlines often assisting in this regard by announcing when the plane is approaching a Miqat.
The Roots of Miqat in Islamic Tradition
The concept and practice of Miqat are deeply embedded in Islamic history, established by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and further organized by Umar Ibn al-Khattab. These stations facilitate the spiritual preparation of millions of Muslims as they embark on their journey to the holy sites, underscoring the unity and equality of all pilgrims before Allah.
Miqat stations serve not only as geographical markers but as spiritual gateways for pilgrims, guiding them into a state of readiness for the rites ahead. The journey to Makkah is both a physical and spiritual preparation, with Miqats playing a critical role in ensuring pilgrims enter the holy city with reverence, purity, and a sense of communal solidarity.
