Can a woman perform Umrah without a mahram?
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Short answer
Yes. Women aged 18 and over can travel in Hoggaan Travels' Umrah groups without a mahram. Saudi Arabia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah announced in October 2022 that women pilgrims no longer need to be accompanied by a mahram.
The Saudi rule
In October 2022 the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, said that a woman coming to the Kingdom for Hajj or Umrah is no longer required to bring a mahram.
The religious question
Scholars hold different views on whether a woman may travel for Umrah without a mahram. This guide describes the travel rules and our own policy; it is not a religious ruling. If you are unsure, ask a scholar you trust before you book.
How it works in our groups
- Our policy: women aged 18 and over can join our Umrah groups without a mahram.
- A group is usually 15 to 25 pilgrims. One guide travels with the group, and our teams in Makkah and Madinah look after you there.
- Rooms are shared by up to four pilgrims, and a private room can be requested for an additional charge.
- Tell us when you book that you are travelling without a mahram, so we can arrange your room accordingly.
Under 18
A traveller under 18 must be accompanied throughout the journey by a sponsor or legal guardian who travels with them.
Documents
The documents are the same for every pilgrim: a passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel date, one clear photo, and your yellow fever vaccination book.
Common questions
- From what age can a woman travel with Hoggaan without a mahram?
- From 18 years old.
- Does Saudi Arabia require a mahram for Umrah?
- No. The Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah announced in October 2022 that women pilgrims no longer need one.
- Can a girl under 18 travel alone?
- No. A traveller under 18 must be accompanied by a sponsor or legal guardian who travels with them.