Deaf Umrah

Islamic religious practice is deeply entwined with sound, from the call to prayer to memorizing the Qur’an: learning to recite the holy text is very much an oral tradition relying on listening and repetition. All this poses a unique challenge for deaf Muslims who wish to engage fully with their faith.

In November 2025, a group of pilgrims from the United Kingdom travelled to Mecca for Umrah, supported throughout in British Sign Language. Led by Al Isharah - a charity focused on helping deaf Muslims access Islam fully - they take part in the pilgrimage in places where much of what is said and done is communicated through sound.

Through reflections from presenter Zainam Bostan and pilgrims including Jani and Zahid, the programme explores faith, belonging and accessibility, and asks what changes when religious teaching is explained visually, not only heard. The programme follows them through key moments, from the first sight of the Kaaba to the press of the crowds during Tawaf.

Zahid says: “Being deaf made me notice what I could see and feel - the movement, the energy, the togetherness. This journey strengthened my faith. And it reminded me that Islam is for everyone including deaf Muslims like me.”

Presenter: Zainam Bostan
Producer: Katie Harris
Executive Producer: Anna Stewart
A CTVC production for BBC World Service