What are the current rules for women performing হজ্জ?

Question

Accepted Answer

Saudi Arabia has progressively updated regulations to make হজ্জ more accessible for women. The most significant recent changes include: women aged 45 and above can now perform হজ্জ without a mahram (male guardian) if they travel as part of an organized group. Some countries have further relaxed this, allowing adult women of any age to apply independently. Women can now register and apply for হজ্জ directly through online portals in many countries.

Regarding ইহরাম, women have more flexibility than men. They may wear any modest clothing in any color — there is no requirement for white or specific garments. They should not wear a niqab (fitted face veil) or gloves during ইহরাম, but may drape fabric over their face when near non-mahram men. Women perform Taqsir (trimming a fingertip's length from hair) when exiting ইহরাম — shaving is not permitted for women.

Menstruation-related rules remain important: women who menstruate during হজ্জ can perform all rituals (standing at আরাফাত, মুযদালিফা, stoning, সাঈ according to some scholars) except তাওয়াফ, which requires ritual purity. The farewell তাওয়াফ (তাওয়াফ al-Wada) is completely waived for menstruating women by consensus. Women should discuss menstruation management with their doctor before the trip — hormonal medication to delay periods during হজ্জ is commonly used and permissible. Women are not required to perform Raml (brisk walking) during তাওয়াফ or Idtiba (shoulder exposure), as these are specific to men.

What are the current rules for women performing হজ্জ?

What Is the Detailed Answer?

What Is the Evidence?

Evidence & References