I Tried to Be a Niqabi for 10 Days: Here’s What I Learned
*Disclaimer: As Muslims, we understand that wearing the Niqab isn’t a game and is part of our adorations. As mentionned in the article, the Author follows the School that considers the Niqab non mandatory. This trip was a great opportunity to experiment with another level of modesty as it is always good to strive to do better as muslims. Thank you for your understanding while reading.*
During my recent trip to Tangier, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and try something that’s often controvertial in the west: wearing the niqab. As a French Muslim, where wearing the niqab is literally illegal, and someone whose school of thought doesn’t consider it mandatory, I’ve always been curious about this practice. So, I took the opportunity to explore it for 10 days while travelling to Morocco. What I discovered was an experience that was both challenging and rewarding.
1. It’s Not All or Nothing
I was truly committed to wearing the Niqab for my entire trip but got humbled real quick. Right away, during breakfast, I struggled to eat properly (even if I stained my niqab just a tiny bit which felt like a true achievement). The entire day, anytime I wanted to eat something, I started to feel stressed and avoided “difficult” foods. Very soon, I realized that maybe, I bit too much that I could chew and considered dropping the experiment all together. However, one of the first lessons I learned was that wearing the niqab doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing decision, at least for me. Instead of forcing myself to push through and risk giving up entirely, I found it helpful to take it off while eating or when I needed a break. This approach allowed me to respect my limits while still embracing the experience for 10 days and even miss it by the end of my trip.
2. Skin Protection in the 35°C Sun
One of the main reasons I wanted to experiment with the Niqab during my trip to Morocco (besides religious ones), was to keep my skin protected from the harsh July sun. Normally, I’d be worried about sunburn or constantly reapplying sunscreen, but the niqab provided a natural shield. It was a relief to know that my skin was protected without any extra effort, which was a nice bonus. Being a Hijabi for many years, I have found myself not handling the sun very well anymore and wanting to keep my skin as covered as possible. As I always say: “Modesty is like a muscle. The more you practice, the stronger you get”.
3. A Different Kind of Freedom
“Seeing without being seen” was such a vibe. I found a sense of freedom in wearing the niqab. Even if I wear the Jilbab/Khimar on the daily (which are very modest already), the Niqab felt even better ! I quickly forgot that people couldn’t really “see” me the way I saw them. While I still lowered my gaze, I knew that there was nothing to look at for them. Being this covered made me feel incredibly protected as well as feminine.
4. Eating with It Is a Learning Curve
As I mentionned in the first point, eating while wearing the niqab presented some unique challenges. While I already knew how my meals in public would be like, having to actually do it was something else. It required some adjustments, but I found that the niqab itself was still comfortable and breathable, even in the heat. I learned to plan ahead, seeking out private spots for meals or adjusting my routine to make it easier. Picking “easy” foods was a must and when I felt like I wouldn’t be able to handle it, I took it off. This step was really awkward though. Each time I uncovered my face in public I kept thinking: “people must think I don’t understand how the Niqab works” but I reminded myself that mountains are made of pebbles and that I was still trying my best. Modesty is between Allah and ourselves.
5. Niqabis Have My Deepest Respect
My experience gave me a much deeper appreciation for women who wear the niqab regularly. It’s a commitment that requires patience, strength, and dedication. The decision to wear the niqab is personal and often deeply meaningful, and I now understand a little more the thought and care that goes into this choice. Niqabis are deserving of respect for their commitment to their beliefs and for navigating the challenges that come with it.
In the end, my 10-day experience wearing the niqab was more than just an experiment—it was a journey of self-discovery. It challenged my perceptions and gave me new insights into modesty, personal choice, and the values that guide us. While I still live in France where it’s not a possibility to wear the Niqab, I’ve gained a deeper understanding and respect for those who do, and I’m grateful for the experience. I already can’t wait to travel abroad and become a Niqabi again in sha Allah !
Are you a Niqabi ? Have you ever tried it ? Do you consider trying it ? Share your experience with us in the comments, we’d love to know !
