Women's Umrah
Complete Guide

Mehram Requirements for Women's Umrah

Saudi Umrah policy for women (as of 2026) is as follows:

• Women under 45: Must travel with a Mehram (husband, father, brother, son, or other close male relative as defined by Islamic law)
• Women 45 and above: Can travel as part of an organised licensed group tour without a Mehram
• Solo travel: Not currently permitted for unaccompanied women under 45 on Umrah visas, regardless of nationality

Saudi policy continues to evolve. We confirm the specific requirements applicable at the time of your booking contact us for the current policy before making any travel plans based on this page.

Ihram Dress Code for Women

Unlike men who wear specific white Ihram cloths, women's Ihram consists of regular modest Islamic clothing that covers the body. Key rules:

• Face must remain uncovered in Ihram (niqab is not worn during Tawaf and Sa'i in the Ihram state)
• Hands must remain uncovered (gloves are not worn in Ihram state)
• Any colour clothing is permitted all-white is not required for women
• Loose, non-perfumed clothing (perfume is prohibited during Ihram for both men and women)
• Hair must be covered (scarf or hijab), but specific Ihram garments are not required

Practical Tips for Women Pilgrims

• Prayer times: Haram has designated women's prayer areas these fill quickly; arrive early for Fajr and Maghrib
• Tawaf timing: Off-peak Tawaf hours (after Ishraq, around 8 10am, or late night after Isha) are significantly less crowded and more comfortable for women
• Sa'i: The Sa'i corridor has separate sections follow directional signage in the Haram
• Riaz-ul-Jannah: Women have specific entry times for Riaz-ul-Jannah check your NUSUK appointment for the designated slot
• Ziyarat in Madina: Jannat al-Baqi cemetery has specific visiting hours for women typically morning visits only

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a woman do Umrah without a Mehram from Pakistan?

Under current policy (2026), women under 45 must travel with a Mehram. Women 45 and above can travel with a licensed group tour without a Mehram. We handle the documentation and group tour structure for older women traveling without male family members.

What should a woman wear for Umrah?

Women wear loose, modest Islamic clothing (any colour) that covers the body except face and hands. Ihram state for women does not require specific white garments regular abayas or shalwar kameez in any colour are appropriate. Avoid perfumed clothing as perfume is prohibited during Ihram.

Are there separate areas for women in Masjid al-Haram?

Yes Masjid al-Haram has designated women's prayer areas, separate entry points, and managed flow for Tawaf and Sa'i. Women's sections are closest to the Kaaba in specified zones. Riaz-ul-Jannah in Madina has separate entry times for women, typically in the morning.