Women are not required to perform Raml (brisk walking) in Tawaf nor to uncover their shoulders.
Women are not required to perform Raml (brisk walking) in Tawaf nor to uncover their shoulders.
Women are exempted from Raml (brisk walking) and Idtiba (shoulder exposure) during Tawaf; they walk at normal pace. Wudu is required, and Tawaf is not permitted during menstruation (majority view).
Women perform Tawaf with the same general requirements as men — seven counter-clockwise circuits starting from the Black Stone corner, in a state of wudu, with proper intention. However, there are specific exemptions and recommendations for women.
Women are NOT required to perform Raml (walking briskly with short steps during the first three circuits) or Idtiba (exposing the right shoulder by tucking the upper garment under the right arm). These are Sunnah acts specific to men. Women walk at their normal pace throughout all seven circuits. Women are also not required to attempt to touch or kiss the Black Stone if it means pushing through dense crowds — pointing toward it from a distance (istilam) is fully sufficient.
Regarding ritual purity, women must have wudu for Tawaf. Menstruating women cannot perform Tawaf according to the majority of scholars, though the farewell Tawaf is completely waived during menstruation. For details on the Hanafi concession regarding Tawaf al-Ifadah during menstruation, see the menstruation FAQ.
Safety tips for women during Tawaf: the outer rings of the ground-floor Mataf and the upper floors are generally less congested and more comfortable. If performing Tawaf near the Ka'bah, be prepared for intense crowding. Travel with a companion if possible. Avoid carrying large bags that can be snagged in crowds. Choose off-peak hours (between Isha and Fajr, or early afternoon) for the most comfortable experience.
Women are not required to perform Raml (brisk walking) in Tawaf nor to uncover their shoulders.
Women are not required to perform Raml (brisk walking) in Tawaf nor to uncover their shoulders.
Source: al-Nawawi, Al-Majmu; Ibn Qudamah, Al-Mughni
Women are not required to perform Raml (brisk walking) in Tawaf nor to uncover their shoulders.
Sunan al-Bayhaqi #9329 (sahih)