Key Takeaways
- Saudi rules allow adult women to perform Umrah without a Mahram in organised groups.
- Women wear normal modest clothing in Ihram – no niqab or gloves.
- A woman in menstruation can do every ritual except Tawaf.
- Rawdah visits for women have separate time slots booked via the Nusuk app.
In this article
Every year thousands of women from India perform Umrah and Hajj – with their husbands, families or in women’s groups. This guide answers the questions sisters most often ask our team.
Do Women Need a Mahram?
Umrah: Saudi regulations now permit adult women to obtain an Umrah visa and travel without a Mahram as part of an organised group. Note that some scholars still hold that a Mahram is required, so many families choose according to their own scholarly guidance.
Hajj from India: The Hajj Committee of India offers a category for women aged 45 and above to apply without a Mahram in groups (“Ladies Without Mehram”). Check the current Hajj policy for exact conditions.
Ihram for Women
- No special Ihram dress – wear loose, modest clothes in any colour (white is not required).
- Do not wear a niqab or gloves; many scholars allow lowering a cloth over the face in front of non-Mahram men.
- Socks and closed shoes are allowed.
- Make the intention and recite the Talbiyah softly.
Read the full list of Ihram rules.
Differences in the Rituals
- No Raml (brisk walking) in Tawaf and no Idtiba (uncovering the shoulder).
- No jogging between the green markers in Sa‘i.
- For Taqsir, cut about a fingertip’s length (2–3 cm) from the ends of the hair – never shave the head.
- Recite the Talbiyah and duas quietly.
Menstruation (Hayd) During Umrah or Hajj
Menstruation does not prevent Ihram. A woman can enter Ihram, make the intention and do every act except Tawaf (and praying in the Masjid). She should wait until she becomes pure, take a bath and then perform Tawaf and Sa‘i.
Tell us discreetly when booking – we can schedule more days in Makkah or plan Madinah first so you have time to complete Umrah. Some women consult a doctor about delaying their period with medication; seek medical advice first.
During Hajj, a woman in menstruation does all rituals except Tawaf al-Ifadah, which she performs once pure. She is excused from Tawaf al-Wada.
Visiting the Rawdah
Women visit the Rawdah at separate times. Book your slot through the Nusuk app – slots fill quickly, so book as soon as you arrive. Our group leaders help with bookings.
Practical Tips for Sisters
- Use the dedicated women’s prayer areas – they are less crowded for daily prayers.
- Choose abayas with pockets or carry a small cross-body bag.
- Pack comfortable, breathable hijabs and an extra pair of socks.
- Agree on meeting points with your family before entering the Haram.
- For Tawaf, the upper floors may feel more comfortable during peak hours.
- Carry a copy of your passport and the hotel card at all times.
Women-friendly group departures
Travel with families and experienced group leaders, with female coordinators on selected departures.
Travel Point Team
Hajj & Umrah Specialists since 2014 · Gorakhpur, Uttar PradeshOur team has guided thousands of pilgrims from Gorakhpur and across India on Hajj and Umrah. These guides are written from first-hand experience to help you prepare with confidence. For religious rulings, please also consult a trusted scholar.
