A new uniform item called the Blue Light Hijab has entered production in the United Kingdom after years of development to provide female Muslim police officers with a safety-compliant head covering that meets both operational and religious requirements. The design was created collaboratively by Leicestershire Police and researchers at De Montfort University Leicester (DMU), and has drawn interest from police forces, emergency services and healthcare organisations across the UK and beyond. 

The Blue Light Hijab features a magnetic quick-release system that allows the lower section of the head covering to detach instantly if it is grabbed during a confrontation, a measure intended to reduce the risk of strangulation while maintaining modesty and a professional appearance. The garment’s construction went through several years of wearer trials, safety testing and design iterations with input from serving Muslim officers before finalisation. 

The concept originated over two decades ago with Detective Sergeant Yassin Desai, founder of the Leicestershire Police Association of Muslim Police. Desai began exploring the idea in the early 2000s, and after reviewing existing designs from other countries without success, he partnered with DMU’s design team in 2022 to bring the project forward. The development included creating a manufacturing setup in the UK for the patented magnet components. 

Student officers such as PC Hafsah Abba-Gana and PC Seher Nas have tested the hijab and are among the first in Leicestershire Police to wear it as part of their official equipment. Officers have noted that the design aims to allow service while observing faith-based dress practices. 

Leicestershire Police officials say the Blue Light Hijab is being adopted by other UK forces and there has been interest from international emergency services exploring similar solutions. The design includes attachments for standard police gear such as radio earpieces and is intended to be both operationally functional and respectful of religious observance. 

The Blue Light Hijab is part of a broader trend in law enforcement to adapt uniform standards to reflect the diversity of personnel. Other countries, including New Zealand, have previously developed head coverings for Muslim officers that meet safety and uniform regulations, involving consultations with community members and extended testing periods. 

Orders and information about the Blue Light Hijab are available through its official website.