What are the current rules for women performing Hac?

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Saudi Arabia has progressively updated regulations to make Hac more accessible for women. The most significant recent changes include: women aged 45 and above can now perform Hac 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 Hac 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 Hac can perform all rituals (standing at Arafat, Muzdelife, stoning, Say according to some scholars) except Tavaf, which requires ritual purity. The farewell Tavaf (Tavaf 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 Hac is commonly used and permissible. Women are not required to perform Raml (brisk walking) during Tavaf or Idtiba (shoulder exposure), as these are specific to men.

What are the current rules for women performing Hac?

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