Women 45+ can now perform Haji without a mahram in groups; they wear any modest clothing for Ihram, perform Taqsir (not shaving), and are excused from farewell Tawaf during menstruation.
Arab Saudi has progressively updated regulations to make Haji more accessible for women. The most significant recent changes include: women aged 45 and above can now perform Haji 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 Haji directly through online portals in many countries.
Regarding Ihram, 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 Ihram, but may drape fabric over their face when near non-mahram men. Women perform Taqsir (trimming a fingertip's length from hair) when exiting Ihram — shaving is not permitted for women.
Menstruation-related rules remain important: women who menstruate during Haji can perform all rituals (standing at Arafah, Muzdalifah, stoning, sa'i according to some scholars) except Tawaf, which requires ritual purity. The farewell Tawaf (Tawaf 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 Haji is commonly used and boleh. Women are not required to perform Raml (brisk walking) during Tawaf or Idtiba (shoulder exposure), as these are specific to men.
I said: 'O Messenger of Allah, the people are returning with two deeds (Haji and Umrah) and I am returning with only one.' He said: 'Wait until you are pure, then go to Taneem and enter Ihram for Umrah.'
I said: 'O Messenger of Allah, the people are returning with two deeds (Haji and Umrah) and I am returning with only one.' He said: 'Wait until you are pure, then go to Taneem and enter Ihram for Umrah.'
Source: Saudi Ministry of Haji and Umrah; al-Nawawi, Al-Majmu
I said: 'O Messenger of Allah, the people are returning with two deeds (Haji and Umrah) and I am returning with only one.' He said: 'Wait until you are pure, then go to Taneem and enter Ihram for Umrah.'
Sahih al-Bukhari #1762 (sahih)