Umrah in Mecca - photo manipulation

Ihraam also dictates what pilgrims wear. It symbolises the equality of all of mankind before God. It signifies that no gender, nationality, or status can make one person superior to another.  For men, it is two sheets of unstitched white cloth, one covering the lower half of the body tied around the waist, and the other is draped around the upper half of the body and shoulders. No undergarments or additional clothing are worn with the Ihraam. 

For footwear, men wear sandals and must keep their head uncovered.

Women can wear any long, loose-fitting garment that is simply designed. Many opt for a plain black abaya - a long-sleeved loose dress that covers the entire body - and a simple hijab, or head covering. The face cannot be covered.