About this page: Women’s fiqh issues during Hajj and Umrah are among the most commonly asked - yet most poorly answered - topics in pilgrimage preparation. This page aims to be a thorough, respectful, and empowering resource. Every answer is drawn from the Quran, the Sunnah (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi, Nasai, Ibn Majah, Musnad Ahmad and other recognised collections, with weak reports marked as weak), the four Sunni schools of jurisprudence (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, Hanbali) and recognised Sunni scholars, with current Saudi regulations for practical matters. Where scholars differ, we present the positions clearly so you can follow your own madhab or consult your scholar with confidence.
Aishah (RA) reported that the Prophet ﷺ said: “Upon them is a jihad in which there is no fighting: Hajj and Umrah.”
- Ibn Majah 29011. Ihram & Clothing
What should women wear for Ihram?
Women enter Ihram in their normal modest clothing. There is no specific “Ihram outfit” for women the way there is for men (who wear two unstitched white sheets). A woman may wear any loose, modest garment that covers her body - an abaya, a shalwar kameez, a long skirt with a top, or any similar clothing. Her head must be covered with a hijab or khimar, but she must not wear a niqab or gloves while in the state of Ihram (the Hanafi school permits gloves). Covering the hands with her sleeves is fine, and when non-mahram men are near she may let a cloth hang over her face (see below).
Ibn Umar (RA) reported that the Prophet ﷺ said: “A woman in Ihram should not wear a niqab (face veil) and should not wear gloves.”
- Sahih al-Bukhari 1838Practical tip: Many women find a loose, dark-coloured abaya to be the most comfortable and practical option. Avoid tight or see-through clothing. Bring at least two sets so you can change if one gets dirty or sweaty during the rites.
Can women wear sewn clothes in Ihram?
Yes. This is one of the most common misconceptions. The prohibition on wearing makhit (sewn or tailored garments) applies only to men. Women wear their normal, stitched clothing, which must be modest. In fact, a woman wearing unstitched garments that fail to cover her properly would be violating the rules of hijab. The Prophet ﷺ specifically addressed men when he said: “Do not wear shirts, turbans, trousers, hooded cloaks, or leather socks” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1838). Women were not addressed with these restrictions.
Can women wear makeup in Ihram?
Not if it is scented, and it is best avoided. Any makeup or cosmetic that contains perfume is prohibited in Ihram, as perfume itself is. Unscented makeup is not one of the agreed prohibitions of Ihram, but the schools are wary of adornment: kohl worn without a need requires a fidyah for the Malikis and is disliked by the Shafi’is and Hanbalis when worn for adornment, while the Hanafis permit unscented kohl. As Ihram is a state of simplicity, and adornment is not shown to non-mahram men at any time, the safest course is to remove makeup before making the intention and to leave it until your Ihram ends (in Umrah, after trimming the hair; in Hajj, at the first release).
Practical tip: Some women use plain, unscented moisturiser or lip balm to prevent dryness in the desert heat. Most scholars permit unscented skincare products as they serve a medical or protective purpose rather than beautification. Consult your scholar if unsure.
Can women wear perfume before or during Ihram?
A woman may apply perfume to her body before entering Ihram, just as men do (the Malikis dislike a perfume whose scent lasts into Ihram), though, as at all times, not a scent meant to be noticed by non-mahram men. The Prophet ﷺ would apply perfume before entering Ihram. Aishah (RA) said: “I used to apply perfume to the Messenger of Allah ﷺ for his Ihram before he entered Ihram, and for his exiting Ihram before he did Tawaf of the House.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1539, Sahih Muslim 1189). However, once in the state of Ihram, applying new perfume is prohibited for both men and women. Avoid scented soap, scented deodorant, and perfumed body lotion during Ihram.
Important: While you may apply perfume to your body before Ihram, be careful not to apply it to your Ihram clothing itself. The lingering scent on your body from pre-Ihram application is fine, but deliberately scenting your garments is a point of scholarly discussion - it is safer to avoid it.
What about wearing shoes and socks?
Women may wear any shoes or socks they wish during Ihram. The restriction on footwear (not wearing khufoof/leather socks that cover the ankle) applies to men only. Women can wear closed shoes, sandals, trainers, socks, or any footwear that is comfortable. Given the enormous amount of walking involved in Hajj and Umrah, comfortable, well-broken-in shoes are essential.
Practical tip: Wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or trainers with good arch support. Avoid brand-new shoes - break them in weeks before your trip. Many women bring flip-flops for the hotel and a pair of supportive shoes for the rites. Socks help prevent blisters.
Can women wear jewellery during Ihram?
The majority of scholars permit women to wear jewellery during Ihram, including rings, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces, as there is no specific prohibition against it. However, it should not be displayed to non-mahram men, which is the general rule of modesty that applies at all times. Some scholars recommend minimising jewellery as a precaution against theft in the large crowds and to maintain the spirit of simplicity that Ihram represents.
Wearing jewellery during Ihram is permissible for women but should be concealed under clothing. The purpose of Ihram is humility before Allah, and excessive adornment is discouraged though not forbidden.
What colour clothing should women wear for Ihram?
There is absolutely no restriction on colour. Women may wear black, white, green, blue, brown, grey, or any colour they choose. The widespread belief that women must wear white for Ihram is a cultural myth with no basis in the Quran or Sunnah. Aishah (RA) wore safflower-dyed clothes while in Ihram, and saw no harm in black or rose-coloured garments for a woman in Ihram (Sahih al-Bukhari, in the chapter heading before hadith 1545). The Hanafis, however, do not allow clothes dyed with saffron or safflower in Ihram unless the scent has gone, since they count the dye as perfume. Many women find dark colours more practical as they show less dirt and provide better coverage.
Misconception alert: You do NOT need to wear white. In some cultures, women are pressured to wear white for Ihram. This has no scholarly basis whatsoever. Wear whatever modest clothing is most comfortable for you.
Can women wear the niqab during Ihram?
No. A woman in Ihram is prohibited from wearing the niqab (face veil) and gloves, as explicitly stated in the hadith of Ibn Umar (RA) in Sahih al-Bukhari 1838. However, this does not mean a woman’s face must be exposed to non-mahram men. Aishah (RA) described the practice of the women companions: “Riders would pass by us while we were with the Messenger of Allah ﷺ in Ihram. When they came alongside us, one of us would let her jilbab hang down from her head over her face, and when they had passed, we would uncover.” (Abu Dawud 1833; its chain is weak, but Fatimah bint al-Mundhir reported with a sound chain that the women with Asma’ bint Abi Bakr (RA) covered their faces in Ihram - Muwatta Malik 20.5.16).
Practical method: Women who normally cover their face can use a cap or visor on their forehead and drape a loose cloth over it so that the fabric hangs in front of the face without touching the skin. Letting a cloth hang down over the face is what Aishah (RA) and the other women described; the cap or visor is a modern aid. The Hanafi and Shafi’i schools ask that the fabric be kept off the skin, while Ibn Qudamah found no such condition from Imam Ahmad (al-Mughni). Many modern “Ihram niqabs” or “face shades” are available for this purpose.
What about hair covering during Ihram?
A woman must cover her hair during Ihram, just as she must at all other times in front of non-mahram men. The head covering is not removed for Ihram - that is a rule for men only (men must keep their heads uncovered). Women should wear a proper hijab, khimar, or headscarf that covers all of their hair. If any hair becomes accidentally exposed, simply cover it back - there is no penalty. The key restriction is only on the face and hands: no niqab and no gloves (the Hanafi school permits gloves), though a cloth may hang over the face when non-mahram men are near.
2. Menstruation & Post-Natal Bleeding
This is arguably the most important section on this entire page. Menstruation is a natural bodily function that Allah created, and no woman should feel ashamed or spiritually diminished because of it. The Prophet ﷺ himself addressed these issues with Aishah (RA) with gentleness and clarity. Understanding these rulings will remove unnecessary anxiety and allow you to complete your Hajj or Umrah with confidence.
What if I get my period during Umrah?
If your period starts during Umrah, you can do everything except Tawaf. Tawaf requires a state of ritual purity (wudu and being free from menstruation), so you must wait. Once your period ends, perform ghusl (the full ritual bath), then complete your Tawaf and Sa’ee. You remain in the state of Ihram until you finish all the rites. This follows what the Prophet ﷺ told Aishah (RA) when she began menstruating on the way to Makkah for Hajj:
The Prophet ﷺ said to Aishah (RA): “This is something that Allah has decreed for the daughters of Adam. Do everything that the pilgrim does, but do not perform Tawaf around the House until you are clean.”
- Sahih al-Bukhari 305, Sahih Muslim 1211Practical tip: If you are on a tight schedule (e.g., your flight is soon), speak to your group leader. In extreme cases where waiting is not possible, consult a qualified scholar about the dispensations available. Do not panic - most Umrah trips have enough flexibility to wait a few days.
What if I get my period during Hajj?
This is the scenario that causes the most anxiety, but the ruling is clear and reassuring: you can do everything except Tawaf. If your period begins on or before the Day of Arafah (9th Dhul Hijjah), there is no problem at all - standing at Arafah does not require wudu or purity from menstruation. You go to Muzdalifah, collect your pebbles, go to Mina, pelt the Jamarat, sacrifice, trim your hair - all of this is permissible. The only thing delayed is Tawaf al-Ifadah (the obligatory Tawaf of Hajj), which you perform once your period ends and you have done ghusl. If you are doing Tamattu’ and your period stops you doing the Tawaf of your Umrah before Hajj begins, you are in Aishah’s (RA) own situation, and the Prophet ﷺ told her to enter Ihram for Hajj (Sahih Muslim 1211). For the majority (Maliki, Shafi’i, Hanbali) you then become a qarin, combining Hajj and Umrah, and one Tawaf and Sa’ee once you are clean count for both; the Hanafis hold that you set the Umrah aside, owe a dam for that, and make the Umrah up later.
Critical ruling: Do NOT skip Tawaf al-Ifadah. It is a pillar (rukn) of Hajj - your Hajj is not complete without it. If your period prevents you from doing it during the days of Hajj, you remain in a partial state of Ihram (where intimacy with your spouse is not yet permitted) until you can do the Tawaf. Coordinate with your group to find a time to return and complete it.
Can I enter Masjid al-Haram during menstruation?
All four madhabs hold that a menstruating woman may not stay in the mosque, based on the hadith: “I do not permit the mosque for a menstruating woman or one who is junub (in a state of major impurity).” (Abu Dawud 232; its grading is disputed - Ibn Khuzaymah accepted it, while al-Albani and others graded it weak; a similar narration from Umm Salamah in Ibn Majah 645 is weak). They differ only on passing through.
These schools permit a menstruating woman to pass through the mosque if she needs to and there is no risk of soiling it (based on the hadith where the Prophet ﷺ told Aishah to bring him the prayer mat from the mosque while she was menstruating - Sahih Muslim 298). However, staying or sitting in the mosque is not permitted.
She may not enter the mosque at all, even just to pass through.
If possible, avoid entering Masjid al-Haram during your period. Use the time for dua and dhikr in your hotel room. If you must pass through the mosque to reach your accommodation, the Shafi’i and Hanbali schools allow this.
Can I make dua and dhikr during menstruation?
Absolutely yes. There is no restriction whatsoever on making dua (supplication), dhikr (remembrance of Allah), tasbeeh, tahmeed, takbeer, sending salawat upon the Prophet ﷺ, or any other form of verbal worship during menstruation. Among the acts she must leave are prayer (salah), fasting, Tawaf and staying in the mosque; touching the mushaf is also forbidden in all four madhabs (the Maliki school makes an exception for teaching and learning), and reciting the Quran is discussed below. You should make the most of your time by engaging in abundant dua, especially on the Day of Arafah and during the blessed nights.
The Prophet ﷺ said to Aishah (RA) when she was menstruating during Hajj: “Do everything that the pilgrim does, but do not perform Tawaf around the House until you are clean.”
- Sahih al-Bukhari 305Encouragement: The Prophet ﷺ said: “Supplication is worship” (Abu Dawud 1479, Tirmidhi 2969). Your period does not diminish your connection to Allah in the slightest. Pour your heart out in supplication - in the hotel, on the way, wherever you are. Allah hears every word.
Can I recite Quran during menstruation?
This is a matter of scholarly difference. The Maliki school, and many contemporary scholars, permit a menstruating woman to recite the Quran from memory or from a device (phone, tablet) without touching the physical mushaf. Ibn Taymiyyah (d. 728 AH) held that there is no authentic, explicit prohibition on it; among contemporary scholars, Sheikh Ibn Baz permitted it, and Sheikh Ibn Uthaymeen permitted it where there is a need such as teaching, study or fear of forgetting. The hadith often cited (“Neither the menstruating woman nor the one who is junub should recite anything from the Quran” - Tirmidhi 131) has been graded weak by many hadith scholars.
The relied-upon position in these three madhabs is that a menstruating woman should not recite the Quran until she is clean and has done ghusl. She may still make dua and dhikr freely.
The Maliki madhab permits a menstruating woman to recite the Quran from memory, while forbidding her to touch the mushaf. Ibn Taymiyyah, following one narration from Imam Ahmad, held that there is no authentic prohibition at all, and many contemporary scholars have adopted this view, some limiting it to a need such as teaching, study or fear of forgetting. Reading from a phone or tablet avoids the issue of touching the mushaf entirely.
Can I do Sa’ee during menstruation?
The four madhabs agree that Sa’ee does not require purity, but there is one condition that matters for planning:
Sa’ee does not require wudu or purity from menstruation, though being in wudu is recommended. Ibn Qudamah names Malik, al-Shafi’i and the Hanafis among those who hold this, and it is the Hanbali position too (al-Mughni). The evidence is the Prophet’s ﷺ words to Aishah (RA): “Do everything that the pilgrim does, but do not perform Tawaf around the House” (Sahih al-Bukhari 305). Imam Ahmad said that if a woman has done Tawaf and then her period begins, she does Sa’ee and then leaves, and the same is reported from Aishah and Umm Salamah (RA).
Sa’ee only counts after a valid Tawaf - this is the position of Malik, al-Shafi’i, the Hanafis and the Hanbali madhab (al-Mughni). So a menstruating woman can do Sa’ee only if she completed her Tawaf before her period began.
Practical advice: If your period began after you finished Tawaf, you may go straight on to Sa’ee. If it began before Tawaf, wait until it ends and you have done ghusl, then do Tawaf and Sa’ee together. If you are pressed for time (e.g., your group is leaving), consult your own scholar or group imam for guidance specific to your situation.
What if my period starts during Tawaf?
If your menstruation begins while you are in the middle of Tawaf, you must stop immediately and leave the Tawaf area. You cannot continue, as Tawaf requires a state of ritual purity. What happens next depends on your madhab:
You must restart Tawaf from the beginning once you are clean and have performed ghusl. The circuits you completed before your period do not count, and you begin a fresh set of seven circuits. In these schools, continuity between the circuits is a condition of Tawaf, and a break of days breaks it.
You may resume from where you stopped once you are clean and have performed ghusl. In these schools, continuity between the circuits is a Sunnah, not a condition. If you completed four circuits, you would continue from the fifth. This is the more lenient view and is often applied in cases of hardship.
Practical tip: Note which circuit you were on when you stopped. After becoming clean and doing ghusl, return to the Black Stone corner and resume (or restart, depending on your madhab). If in doubt, restarting from the beginning satisfies all scholarly opinions.
Can I take medication to delay my period for Hajj?
Yes, this is permissible according to the majority of scholars. Both Sheikh Ibn Baz and Sheikh Ibn Uthaymeen explicitly permitted women to take medication to delay menstruation so they could perform Hajj and Umrah without interruption, on condition that it does her no harm. Many women travelling for Hajj use hormonal contraceptive pills or norethisterone (prescribed by a doctor) to delay their period. This is a well-established practice.
Medical advice: Consult your doctor well in advance (at least 2–3 months before travel) to discuss the best option for you. Start the medication as directed - some require starting weeks before. Side effects can include nausea, spotting, or mood changes. Trial the medication before your trip to see how your body reacts.
Reassurance: Taking medication to delay your period for Hajj is completely normal and very common. There is no shame in it. Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation, and using permissible medical means to ensure you can perform all the rites without interruption is a wise and valid choice.
What if I am in post-natal bleeding (nifas)?
Post-natal bleeding (nifas) follows exactly the same rules as menstruation. A woman in nifas can do everything the pilgrim does - stand at Arafah, go to Muzdalifah, pelt the Jamarat, make dua, do dhikr - except Tawaf, which requires purity. Once the bleeding stops and she performs ghusl, she can complete her Tawaf. The maximum duration of nifas is 40 days in the Hanafi and Hanbali schools - Tirmidhi reports that the Companions and those after them held that a woman in nifas leaves prayer for forty days unless she becomes clean before that (Tirmidhi 139) - and 60 days in the Shafi’i and Maliki schools. Bleeding that continues beyond this is treated as istihadhah (irregular bleeding).
What about irregular bleeding (istihadhah)?
Istihadhah is treated completely differently from menstruation. A woman experiencing istihadhah (irregular or chronic bleeding that is not menstrual) is considered to be in a state of ritual purity. She should make wudu for each prayer time (the Malikis hold that this bleeding does not break wudu and only recommend it), use a pad or protection, and perform all rites normally - including Tawaf, Sa’ee, prayer, and everything else. This is based on the hadith of Aishah (RA) about Fatimah bint Abi Hubaysh, to whom the Prophet ﷺ said:
“That is not menstruation, it is from a blood vessel. When the real menstruation comes, leave the prayer. When it goes, wash the blood from yourself, then pray.”
- Sahih al-Bukhari 228, Sahih Muslim 333How to distinguish: The Maliki, Shafi’i and Hanbali schools let a woman whose bleeding continues tell the two apart by the blood itself, each with its own conditions (the Hanbalis, for example, go first by her regular cycle if she has one): menstrual blood is typically dark, thick, and has a distinct odour, while istihadhah blood is usually lighter in colour and thinner. The Hanafis do not go by colour at all: they rely on her usual cycle and on the fixed limits of a period (at least three days, at most ten). If you are unsure, consult a knowledgeable female scholar or your doctor before travelling. Understanding your personal cycle is important for Hajj preparation.
Am I excused from the Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wada’) if menstruating?
Yes. This is a matter of scholarly consensus (ijma’). A menstruating woman is completely excused from the Farewell Tawaf with no penalty, no dam (sacrifice), and no sin. This is explicitly established in the hadith:
Ibn Abbas (RA) said: “The people were ordered to make their last act the Tawaf around the House, except that menstruating women were excused.”
- Sahih al-Bukhari 1755, Sahih Muslim 1328Important distinction: The Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wada’) is what you are excused from. You are NOT excused from Tawaf al-Ifadah (the obligatory Tawaf of Hajj). If you have not yet done Tawaf al-Ifadah, you must wait until clean, even if it means staying behind after your group leaves. If staying or coming back is truly impossible, ask a qualified scholar before you leave: the Hanafis hold that purity is wajib for Tawaf rather than a condition of it, so a Tawaf al-Ifadah done during menstruation counts, though you are sinful and owe a badanah (a camel or a cow) unless you repeat it once clean, and Ibn Taymiyyah allowed it in genuine necessity. Tawaf al-Ifadah is a pillar of Hajj; the Farewell Tawaf is a wajib in the Hanafi, Shafi’i and Hanbali schools (a Sunnah for the Malikis), and it is waived for menstruating women.
What if I become clean during the days of Hajj?
If your period ends during the days of Hajj (10th–13th Dhul Hijjah), perform ghusl immediately and then go to do your Tawaf al-Ifadah as soon as you can. There is no need to wait - once you are clean and have done ghusl, you are in a state of purity and can perform Tawaf. If it is nighttime, the Haram is open 24 hours. Many women find the late night or early morning hours less crowded and more comfortable for Tawaf. After Tawaf al-Ifadah, if you have not yet done Sa’ee, complete it as well.
Practical tip: Keep your Ihram clothing and ghusl supplies ready so that the moment your period ends, you can bathe and go to the Haram without delay. Coordinate with a family member or group member to accompany you, especially at night.
Can I use tampons or menstrual cups during Hajj?
Yes. There is no Islamic prohibition on using tampons, menstrual cups, or any other internal menstrual products. These are simply a means of managing blood flow and have no bearing on your ritual state. Many women find menstrual cups particularly convenient for Hajj because they can be worn for up to 12 hours, reduce the need for frequent bathroom visits, and are more discreet under Ihram clothing. Pads are also perfectly fine. Use whatever you are most comfortable with and whatever you have experience using - Hajj is not the time to try a new product for the first time.
3. Mahram Requirements
Do I need a mahram to perform Hajj?
The Prophet ﷺ said: “No woman should travel except with a mahram, and no man should enter upon her unless she has a mahram with her.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1862, Sahih Muslim 1341). However, the scholars have differed on the application of this hadith to Hajj specifically:
A mahram is strictly required for a woman to perform Hajj. If she has no mahram, Hajj is not obligatory upon her until one becomes available. This is the more cautious view, based on the general wording of the hadith.
For the obligatory Hajj, a woman may travel with a group of trustworthy women even without a mahram, if the journey is safe (the Malikis speak of a safe company, which may also be one of trustworthy men). In Umar’s (RA) last Hajj he permitted the wives of the Prophet ﷺ to perform Hajj and sent Uthman ibn Affan (RA) and Abdur-Rahman ibn Awf (RA) with them (Sahih al-Bukhari 1860), and neither was their mahram. Safety and trustworthiness of the group are the key conditions. For a voluntary Hajj or Umrah, both schools still require a husband or mahram.
Saudi Regulations (Updated): Saudi Arabia formerly allowed women aged 45 and above to travel in organised groups without a mahram. In October 2022 the Minister of Hajj and Umrah announced that a mahram is no longer required for women coming for Hajj or Umrah from anywhere in the world. Your own country’s Hajj mission or quota system may still set its own conditions, so check before booking. This is a visa rule - the fiqh question is the difference of opinion set out above.
Who counts as a mahram?
A mahram is a male relative whom a woman can never marry due to blood, marriage, or breastfeeding ties. This includes:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| By blood (nasab) | Father, grandfather, son, grandson, brother, half-brother, paternal uncle, maternal uncle, nephew (brother’s son or sister’s son) |
| By marriage (musaharah) | Husband (he counts for travel - see below), father-in-law, stepfather (mother’s husband, once that marriage has been consummated), son-in-law (daughter’s husband), stepson |
| By breastfeeding (radha’ah) | Milk-brother, milk-father, milk-son, and all corresponding relationships that are forbidden by blood - as the Prophet ﷺ said: “Breastfeeding makes haram what lineage makes haram.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 2645, Sahih Muslim 1447) |
Note: A cousin, a fiancé, a brother-in-law (husband’s brother), or a family friend is NOT a mahram, no matter how trusted. These men can potentially marry the woman, so they do not qualify.
Can my husband be my mahram?
Yes. A husband is a mahram for his wife and is, in fact, the most common mahram for women performing Hajj. He is not a man she can never marry, but the hadith on women’s travel names him alongside her mahrams: “...unless her father, her son, her husband, her brother or a mahram of hers is with her” (Sahih Muslim 1340). The husband does not need to be performing Hajj himself - he simply needs to be accompanying her on the journey (though most husbands take the opportunity to perform Hajj as well).
What if I have no mahram available?
If you genuinely have no mahram available - your father has passed away, you have no brothers, no sons, no husband, and no other qualifying relative - then the ruling depends on your madhab:
Hajj is not obligatory upon you until a mahram becomes available. You are not sinful for not performing Hajj. If a mahram never becomes available in your lifetime, one view in both schools is that the Hajj is still owed from your estate, so it is a sensible precaution to leave a bequest for someone to perform Hajj on your behalf after your death.
For the obligatory Hajj you may travel with a group of trustworthy women (for the Malikis, any safe company), and Hajj remains obligatory if you can arrange safe travel. The key condition is safety and reliability of the group, not the presence of a specific male relative.
Practical advice: Many Hajj agencies now cater specifically to women travelling without mahrams by arranging all-female groups with female group leaders. Check with the Saudi embassy or your local Hajj authority for the latest regulations regarding women’s travel.
Do women still need to be over 45 to go without a mahram?
No - under current Saudi regulations the age limit has gone. Saudi Arabia used to permit only women aged 45 and above to perform Hajj and Umrah in an organised group without a mahram; since October 2022 the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has said a mahram is no longer required. Some countries’ Hajj missions still apply their own age or group rules, and policies continue to evolve. Always check the most current regulations with your country’s Hajj ministry or the Saudi embassy before booking.
Does the mahram need to also be performing Hajj?
No. The mahram’s role is to accompany and protect the woman during travel, not to perform Hajj himself. He can be with her in Madinah and Makkah without doing the rites of Hajj, though to enter Makkah the Hanafi, Maliki and Hanbali schools require a man coming from beyond the miqat to be in Ihram (in practice, by performing Umrah), while the Shafi’is only recommend Ihram for someone who intends no rite. However, it would be a tremendous missed opportunity - if he is there, he might as well perform Hajj or Umrah and seek its immense reward. The only requirement is his physical presence to provide companionship and security during the journey.
4. Tawaf & Sa’ee for Women
Do women do Raml (brisk walking) in Tawaf?
No. Raml - the brisk, shoulder-swaying walk performed during the first three circuits of the Tawaf of Umrah or Tawaf al-Qudum (Arrival Tawaf) - is prescribed for men only. Women walk at their normal, dignified pace throughout all seven circuits. Ibn Umar (RA) said: “Women do not have to do raml around the Ka’bah or between Safa and Marwah.” (al-Bayhaqi, al-Sunan al-Kubra). This is agreed upon by all four madhabs. Walk calmly, focus on your dua, and take your time.
Do women do Idtiba’ (exposing the right shoulder)?
No. Idtiba’ - the practice of placing the middle of the upper Ihram garment (rida’) under the right armpit and draping it over the left shoulder, thereby exposing the right shoulder - is exclusively for men, in the Tawaf in which raml is performed (the Tawaf of Umrah or Tawaf al-Qudum). This practice has no application to women whatsoever, as women must keep their bodies covered (except face and hands) at all times. All four madhabs are unanimous on this.
Can women touch or kiss the Black Stone?
Yes, women may touch and kiss the Black Stone (al-Hajar al-Aswad) if they can reach it without being crushed, jostled, or harmed, and without pushing in among the men. The area around the Black Stone is often extremely crowded, especially during Hajj season, and the women of the Sahabah kept to the edge of the crowd: when Umm Salamah (RA) was unwell, the Prophet ﷺ told her, “Perform Tawaf behind the people, riding” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1619, Sahih Muslim 1276), and Aishah (RA) did Tawaf apart from the men and declined to push through to the Stone.
Ata’ said: “Aishah (RA) used to do Tawaf at a distance from the men, not mixing with them. A woman said, ‘Come, let us touch the Stone, O Mother of the Believers.’ She said, ‘Go yourself,’ and she refused.”
- Sahih al-Bukhari 1618Practical tip: If you cannot reach the Black Stone safely, simply point towards it with your right hand from wherever you are and say “Allahu Akbar” at the start of each circuit. This is the Sunnah when one cannot touch or kiss it, and it is what the Prophet ﷺ did when he made Tawaf riding (Sahih al-Bukhari 1613). Do not risk injury in the crowd - women who do Tawaf during late night hours often find it easier to reach the Stone, which can only be touched from the ground-floor Mataf.
Should women run between the green markers in Sa’ee?
No. The green fluorescent markers between Safa and Marwah indicate the valley (wadi) where men are recommended to walk briskly or jog. This brisk walking is for men only. Women walk at their normal pace throughout the entire Sa’ee, including between the green markers. Ibn Umar (RA) stated that women have no running in Sa’ee (al-Bayhaqi, al-Sunan al-Kubra). This is agreed upon by all four madhabs.
Is there a separate Tawaf area for women?
There is no formally designated separate area for women during Tawaf. Men and women perform Tawaf in the same Mataf (Tawaf area). However, the upper floors of Masjid al-Haram provide a Tawaf route that is often significantly less crowded and more comfortable for women and families. The ground-floor Mataf, especially near the Ka’bah, can be extremely crowded and physically demanding during peak times.
Practical tip: If you feel overwhelmed by crowds on the ground floor, move to the first or second floor. The circuits are wider (and therefore longer), but the experience is far more peaceful. Many women prefer the rooftop level during less busy times, which offers a beautiful view of the Ka’bah below. Late night (after Isha) and early morning (before Fajr) are generally the least crowded times.
Can women do Tawaf on the upper floors?
Yes. Tawaf performed on the upper floors or the roof of Masjid al-Haram is valid in the Hanafi, Shafi’i and Hanbali schools and for most scholars today (classical Maliki texts did not accept Tawaf on the mosque’s roof, so Malikis may wish to ask a scholar), as long as the circuit goes around the Ka’bah (i.e., you are circling the Ka’bah even though you are above it). This is often the most practical option for women, the elderly, those in wheelchairs, and anyone who finds the ground-floor crowds too intense. The only difference is that the distance is greater, so each circuit takes longer. Many women find this to be a more spiritual experience as it is calmer and less chaotic.
5. Prayer & Worship
Where should women pray in Masjid al-Haram?
Women may pray almost anywhere in Masjid al-Haram - in the Mataf area, in the corridors, on the upper floors, in the basement, and in the outdoor courtyards - and the mosque also has designated women’s prayer areas. During congregational prayers, women generally pray behind the men, as is the Sunnah. The upper floors tend to be more comfortable for women as they are less crowded and provide more personal space. The reward of prayer in Masjid al-Haram is multiplied - Jabir (RA) reported that the Prophet ﷺ said: “One prayer in my mosque is better than a thousand prayers elsewhere, except al-Masjid al-Haram, and one prayer in al-Masjid al-Haram is better than a hundred thousand prayers elsewhere.” (Ibn Majah 1406, Musnad Ahmad 14694; graded sahih by al-Albani).
Practical tip: Arrive early for congregational prayers to secure a good spot. Keep a small prayer mat with you as the marble floors can be very hot during the day (especially on the roof) or very cold from air conditioning. Mark your shoes’ location with a distinctive bag - thousands of shoes can look identical.
Can women pray in the Rawdah (in Masjid al-Nabawi)?
Yes. The Rawdah - the blessed garden between the Prophet’s minbar and his noble chamber in Madinah - is open to women, typically during designated time slots (booked as a permit in the Nusuk app). The Prophet ﷺ said: “Between my house and my minbar is a garden from the gardens of Paradise.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1195, Sahih Muslim 1391). Women’s time slots are allocated to prevent overcrowding and ensure women can pray comfortably.
Practical tip: A Rawdah visit needs a permit booked in the Nusuk app, and women have their own time slots - in 2026, from after Fajr until late morning and from after Isha until about 2 am. Slots fill quickly and times change, so book as early as you can, check the app before you go, and arrive on time for your slot. The Rawdah is small and demand is high, so be patient. Bring a small dua list so you make the most of your time in this blessed spot.
Should women recite the Talbiyah aloud?
Women recite the Talbiyah quietly - loud enough to hear it themselves, but not in a loud, raised voice like men. Ibn Abd al-Barr reported that the scholars agree on this, and the Hanbali text allows no more than the woman beside her can hear (Ibn Qudamah, al-Mughni). The Talbiyah is: “Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka laa shareeka laka labbayk. Innal-hamda wan-ni’mata laka wal-mulk, laa shareeka lak.”
The scholars agree that men should raise their voices with the Talbiyah, while a woman does not raise hers: Ibn Abd al-Barr reported consensus that the Sunnah for her is to say it so that she hears herself, and Ibn Qudamah names Malik, al-Shafi’i and the Hanafis among those who hold this (al-Mughni). The Talbiyah is an expression of responding to Allah’s call, and women participate in it fully - the difference is only in volume, not in obligation or reward.
Can women lead other women in prayer during Hajj?
Yes, in the Shafi’i and Hanbali schools. A woman may lead other women in congregational prayer (see the madhab note below), and this is supported by the practice of the Sahabiyyat (female companions). Aishah (RA) and Umm Salamah (RA) are both reported to have led women in prayer, standing in the middle of the row (Musannaf Abd al-Razzaq, al-Bayhaqi; al-Nawawi judged their chains sound). The woman leading (imamah) stands in the middle of the first row (not ahead of the row, as a male imam would). This is especially practical during Hajj when a group of women may be praying together in their tent, hotel room, or at a resting point during the rites.
The Shafi’i and Hanbali schools consider it permissible for a knowledgeable woman to lead other women in prayer, and the Shafi’is regard it as recommended. The Hanafi school holds that it is valid but disliked to the point of being close to forbidden (makruh tahriman). The relied-upon Maliki position is that a woman may not lead prayer at all, whether obligatory or voluntary.
Can women recite Quran aloud during Hajj?
Yes. Women may recite the Quran during Hajj - whether silently or aloud. During Tawaf, Sa’ee, standing at Arafah, and throughout the days of Hajj, women can recite Quran, make dua, and engage in all forms of dhikr. When reciting aloud, keep your voice low, as with the Talbiyah, so that it does not draw unnecessary attention. Many women recite from their phones or from memory during the long hours at Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina. The restriction on reciting Quran during menstruation has been discussed in the menstruation section above.
Are there specific duas for women during Hajj?
There are no gender-specific duas in Hajj. The same supplications recited by men are recited by women - including the Talbiyah, the takbir at the Black Stone, the dua between the Yemeni Corner and the Black Stone, the dua on Safa and Marwah, the dua at Arafah, and all other prescribed supplications. The Prophet ﷺ said: “The best supplication is the supplication on the Day of Arafah.” (Tirmidhi 3585). This applies equally to men and women. Pour your heart out to Allah in whatever language you are most comfortable with - He understands every language and hears every whisper.
6. Practical & Safety
What should women pack for Hajj and Umrah?
Packing well is one of the most important practical steps for a comfortable pilgrimage. Here is a detailed list tailored specifically for women:
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Ihram & Clothing | 2–3 loose abayas or outfits (any colour), multiple hijabs/headscarves, comfortable underwear (yes, normal undergarments are worn under Ihram), sports hijab for walking, lightweight prayer garment |
| Menstrual Supplies | Pads, tampons, or menstrual cup (whichever you use), extra underwear, wet wipes, disposable bags for hygiene, change of clothes |
| Footwear | Comfortable broken-in walking shoes/trainers, flip-flops or slides for hotel, socks (prevent blisters) |
| Toiletries | Unscented soap and shampoo (for Ihram), regular toiletries (for after Ihram), unscented deodorant, sunscreen, lip balm, portable bidet or water bottle for istinja, travel-size tissue packs |
| Health & Medicine | Pain medication (paracetamol, ibuprofen), any prescription medicine, antacids, plasters/blister pads, rehydration salts, period delay medication (if using), hand sanitiser, face masks |
| Worship Essentials | Small Quran or Quran app on phone, dua book or dua list, small prayer mat, tasbeeh beads (optional), notebook and pen for reflections |
| Practical Items | Money belt or cross-body bag, phone charger and power bank, small backpack for Hajj days, zip-lock bags for valuables, earplugs and eye mask (for sleeping in Mina), umbrella (for sun and rain), travel pillow |
Pro tip: Roll your clothes to save space. Pack a “day bag” with essentials (water, snacks, medication, phone, ID, wipes) that you carry during the rites. Leave unnecessary valuables at home - you will be in massive crowds and theft does occur.
How can women stay safe during crowded rites?
The crowds at Hajj can be genuinely overwhelming, particularly during Tawaf, the pelting of the Jamarat, and the movement between Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina. Here are essential safety measures:
- Stay with your group. Agree on meeting points in case you get separated. Share your phone’s live location with your mahram or travel companion.
- Avoid peak times. Tawaf and pelting are less crowded late at night and in the early morning. Take advantage of the flexibility in timing.
- Use upper floors. The upper levels of Masjid al-Haram are significantly less crowded for Tawaf.
- Protect your body. In dense crowds, cross your arms over your chest to create space. If the crowd surges, move with it - do not fight against it.
- Keep identification on you at all times. Carry your passport copy, hotel card, and emergency contacts in a secure pouch under your clothing.
- Use the Tawakkalna or Nusuk apps for crowd management and real-time updates from Saudi authorities.
What about bathroom facilities?
Masjid al-Haram and the surrounding areas have public bathrooms, and they have been significantly upgraded in recent years. However, they can be crowded, the queues for the women’s section are often longer than for men, and cleanliness varies. The bathrooms in Mina (the tent city) are basic shared facilities. Bring your own tissue, wet wipes, a portable bidet bottle, and hand sanitiser. Use the bathroom before starting Tawaf or Sa’ee, as leaving mid-rite is disruptive. In Muzdalifah (where pilgrims spend the night under the open sky), facilities are extremely limited - prepare mentally and practically for this.
Practical tip: A small, refillable squeeze bottle (the kind marketed as a “travel bidet”) is one of the most valuable items you can pack. It ensures you can perform istinja properly even when bathroom facilities are basic. Many women consider this their most important Hajj packing item.
Can women use scented soap during Ihram?
No. While in the state of Ihram, both men and women must avoid using scented products, including perfumed soap, shampoo, body wash, and lotion. Use unscented alternatives instead. Most pharmacies in Makkah and Madinah sell unscented soap specifically marketed for pilgrims. If you accidentally use scented soap, wash it off straight away. In the Shafi’i and Hanbali schools there is no penalty for a genuine mistake made through forgetfulness or not knowing; the Hanafi and Maliki schools require a fidyah (compensation) even then. Deliberate use of fragrance during Ihram requires a fidyah in all four.
Tips for women doing Hajj while pregnant
Performing Hajj while pregnant is permissible, but it requires serious consideration and medical clearance. The physical demands of Hajj are enormous - long walks, extreme heat (often above 40°C), massive crowds, sleep deprivation, and limited medical facilities in some areas.
Medical advice: Consult your obstetrician before booking. Most doctors advise against travelling for Hajj during the first trimester (risk of miscarriage) and the third trimester (risk of premature labour). The second trimester is generally considered the safest window. Your doctor may advise against it entirely depending on your pregnancy’s health profile.
If you do go while pregnant: Stay hydrated at all times, rest frequently, use a wheelchair for Tawaf and Sa’ee if needed (this is permissible), wear compression socks, carry your medical records, know the location of the nearest hospital, and do not push yourself physically beyond your limits. Remember: Hajj is obligatory once in a lifetime - if this pregnancy makes it dangerous, you can delay until a safer time.
Can women cut their own hair after Umrah or Hajj?
Yes. A woman trims approximately a fingertip’s length (about 1–2 cm) from the ends of her hair. She may do this herself - she does not need someone else to cut it for her. She gathers her hair and trims from the tips, taking from all of it: the Maliki and Hanbali schools require the trim to cover the whole head, the Hanafi school at least a quarter of it and the Shafi’i school as little as three hairs. Women do NOT shave their heads - this is exclusively for men. The Prophet ﷺ said: “There is no shaving for women; rather women should shorten (their hair).” (Abu Dawud 1984).
Practical tip: Bring a small pair of scissors in your luggage (not hand luggage for the flight). After Sa’ee in Umrah, or on the Day of Sacrifice in Hajj, simply trim the ends of your hair. If your hair is layered, take a little from every layer. In Umrah, trimming ends your Ihram and all restrictions are lifted. In Hajj, once you have also stoned Jamrat al-Aqabah, it brings the first release in the Shafi’i and Hanbali schools (the Malikis count the pelting alone, the Hanafis the shaving or trimming): everything becomes permitted except intimacy with your spouse (and, in the Shafi’i and Hanbali schools, a marriage contract), which waits until after Tawaf al-Ifadah (and, for the majority, Sa’ee too if it is still due). The Malikis also keep hunting forbidden, and perfume disliked, until then.
What about breastfeeding during Hajj?
Breastfeeding during Hajj is permissible and many mothers do it. It does not affect your state of Ihram or the validity of any rite. You can breastfeed, keeping yourself covered as Tawaf requires, during Tawaf, Sa’ee, at Arafah, in Mina, or anywhere else. Islam encourages breastfeeding and there is no restriction on it during pilgrimage. The practical challenge is finding a private, comfortable spot in crowded conditions. Some areas of the Haram have women’s rest areas that offer more privacy. A breastfeeding cover or large scarf provides modesty in public spaces.
Practical tip: Stay well hydrated, as dehydration in the Saudi heat can reduce milk supply. If you are doing Hajj with a baby, consider bringing a sling or baby carrier rather than a pram, as the crowds make prams very difficult to manoeuvre. Bring any breast pump supplies you may need, as specific brands may not be available locally.
Women travelling alone - safety tips
For women travelling with a group but without close family, or women travelling in organised groups without a mahram, safety and comfort require extra planning:
- Choose a reputable Hajj operator with a track record and references from other women who have used them.
- Stay connected. Keep your phone charged at all times. Share your live location with a trusted person back home. Save the emergency numbers: 911 (police, ambulance and fire in the Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh and Eastern regions; elsewhere police 999 and ambulance 997), the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah care line 1966, and your embassy.
- Buddy system. Partner with another woman in your group for all movements, especially at night and in crowded areas.
- Keep valuables hidden. Use a flat money belt under your abaya. Do not carry large amounts of cash.
- Know your accommodation details. Memorise your hotel name and address (or keep a card in your pocket) in case you get lost.
- Trust your instincts. If a situation feels unsafe, remove yourself immediately. Do not hesitate to ask security personnel or police for help - they are stationed throughout the Haram and surrounding areas.
What about accommodation and privacy in Mina tents?
During the days of Hajj (the 8th Dhul Hijjah, and again from the 10th to the 12th or 13th), pilgrims stay in the tent city of Mina. The tents are gender-segregated - men and women sleep in separate sections or separate tents, depending on the Hajj operator’s arrangements. The quality of accommodation varies significantly based on your Hajj package. Standard packages offer shared tents with mattresses on the floor, while premium packages may offer smaller shared groups with better bedding and air conditioning.
Practical tips for Mina: Bring an eye mask and earplugs for sleeping (it is noisy 24 hours). Keep a small bag with your essentials close to you at all times. Use the bathroom in shifts with your group. Wear comfortable, loose clothing for sleeping. Shower facilities are basic and shared - quick showers and flip-flops are essential. If privacy is a major concern, discuss tent arrangements with your Hajj operator before booking.
7. Common Misconceptions
Some of the most damaging myths in our communities relate to women and worship. These misconceptions can cause women to feel excluded from their own religious obligations. Let us correct them clearly, with evidence.
“Women can’t do Hajj during their period” - FALSE
This is perhaps the single most harmful misconception about women and Hajj. A menstruating woman CAN and SHOULD perform Hajj. She does everything - stands at Arafah, sleeps at Muzdalifah, pelts the Jamarat, makes dua, does dhikr, sacrifices - except Tawaf, which she delays until she is clean. The Prophet ﷺ explicitly told Aishah (RA): “Do everything that the pilgrim does, but do not perform Tawaf around the House until you are clean.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 305). If a woman’s period begins during Hajj, she does NOT go home, she does NOT abandon her Hajj, and she is NOT in any way deficient in her worship. She simply delays the Tawaf.
“Women must wear white for Ihram” - FALSE
There is no requirement for women to wear white during Ihram. This is a cultural practice that has been mistakenly elevated to a religious ruling. The two unstitched sheets called the izar and rida’ are for men only, and even for men white is recommended rather than required. Women wear their normal modest clothing in any colour. In fact, wearing very thin white fabric can sometimes be less modest than darker clothing, making dark colours a better practical choice for many women. Neither the Quran nor any hadith prescribes a specific colour for women’s Ihram clothing.
“Women can’t recite Quran during menstruation” - Scholarly difference
This is not a straightforward “true or false” - it is a legitimate area of scholarly difference. The Hanafi, Shafi’i and Hanbali schools hold that a menstruating woman should not recite Quran, while the Maliki school permits her to recite from memory without touching the mushaf. Ibn Taymiyyah (d. 728 AH) held that there is no authentic, explicit prohibition, and many contemporary scholars - including Sheikh Ibn Baz, and Sheikh Ibn Uthaymeen where there is a need - permit it. The hadith often cited (Tirmidhi 131) has been graded weak by numerous hadith scholars. The practical position adopted by many scholars today is that a menstruating woman may recite Quran, especially from a phone or tablet (which avoids the issue of touching the mushaf), and this is particularly important during the blessed days of Hajj so women are not deprived of this worship.
“Women’s Hajj is less rewarded than men’s” - FALSE
This is completely and categorically false. There is no evidence whatsoever that a woman’s Hajj is less rewarded than a man’s. In fact, the Prophet ﷺ described Hajj as the jihad of women, elevating it to the highest level of deed:
Aishah (RA) asked: “O Messenger of Allah, do women have to engage in jihad?” He ﷺ said: “Yes, upon them is a jihad in which there is no fighting: Hajj and Umrah.”
- Ibn Majah 2901And the Prophet ﷺ also said: “An accepted Hajj has no reward except Paradise.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1773). This promise is for every pilgrim - male and female. A woman’s Hajj, performed sincerely and correctly, carries the same promise of reward as a man’s.
“Women should stay at the back during Tawaf” - Recommended, not obligatory
It is recommended (mustahabb), not obligatory, for women to perform Tawaf at a slight distance from the Ka’bah to avoid being crushed in the crowds that gather near the Black Stone and the Multazam. Aishah (RA) used to do Tawaf at a distance from the men, not mixing with them (Sahih al-Bukhari 1618). However, this is a recommendation for safety and comfort, not a binding obligation. If a woman wishes to be near the Ka’bah, her Tawaf is completely valid. Many women find that during less crowded times (late night, early morning), they can comfortably do Tawaf closer to the Ka’bah without being jostled.
“Women should not raise their hands in dua” - FALSE
Women, like men, are encouraged to raise their hands when making dua. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Your Lord is Generous and Shy. If His servant raises his hands to Him, He is shy to return them empty.” (Abu Dawud 1488, Tirmidhi 3556). There is no prohibition on women raising their hands in supplication during Hajj, Umrah, or at any other time. Whether at Arafah, between Safa and Marwah, at the Multazam, or in your hotel room - raise your hands, open your heart, and ask Allah for everything you need.
