Miqat of the Sudan

Q: In the past, Al-Juhfah was the boundary where the Sudanese pilgrims would enter Ihram (ritual state for Hajj or ‘Umrah). The ship would blow a whistle to announce that the boundary was reached to enter Ihram. But since the time of air travel, the Sudanese pilgrims assume Ihram from Jeddah. When they arrive in Jeddah, they stay there for many days wearing their normal clothes. Is it permissible for them to assume Ihram from Jeddah? Is it permissible for them to assume Ihram on the day of arrival or according to what they think is suitable?

A: Jeddah is a Miqat (site for entering the ritual state for Hajj or ‘Umrah) only for its citizens, or residents there, or those who arrive in it for purposes other than Hajj or ‘Umrah and then decide to perform either of them. Those who have a Miqat before Jeddah - such as Dhul-Hulayfah appointed for the people of Al-Madinah and what is beyond it, or those who come in line with it, whether by land or by plane; or Al-Juhfah appointed for the people who live there and those who come in line with it, whether by land, sea, or air; and Yalamlam likewise - it is obligatory for them to assume Ihram from their own Miqat or when they come in line with it whether traveling by air, sea, or land. (Part No. 11; Page No. 131) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.