Can a woman perform Umrah without a mahram?

The Saudi rule

• The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah states that a mahram is not required for women performing Umrah. Women can obtain an Umrah visa and travel independently or with a group.

The religious question

• Scholars differ on whether a woman may travel for Umrah without a mahram, and under what conditions (for example, with a trustworthy group of women). If this matters to you, please ask your own scholar — we don't give rulings.

If you decide to travel

• A women-friendly group with named contacts in each city gives company and support.
• Choose hotels close to the women's entrances and prayer areas, especially in Madinah.
• Keep your hotel's address in Arabic, and share your plans with family at home.

For Hajj (not Umrah): the Haj Committee of India has its own rules for ladies without mehram — see our Hajj questions.

Next step: our guide to women's Umrah without a mahram, and our women's group Umrah service.