The niqab is a veil for the face that leaves the area around the eyes clear. However, it may be worn with a separate eye veil.

The niqab attracted the attention of cabinet minister Jack Straw, who said he would prefer that Muslim women did not cover their faces. It is worn with an accompanying headscarf.

The burqa is the most concealing of all Islamic veils. It covers the entire face and body, leaving just a mesh screen to see through.