Everything a Muslim woman needs to know about performing Hajj and Umrah - from Ihram rules to menstruation issues, all answered.

The Complete Guide for Women Performing Hajj & Umrah

As a woman who has performed Hajj three times and Umrah many more, I understand the unique challenges and questions we face. This guide covers everything you need to know.

What to Wear for Ihram

Unlike men, women have flexibility in their Ihram clothing:

You CAN wear:

Any color clothing (not just white)

Stitched, regular modest clothing

Socks and any type of footwear

Abaya, jilbab, or any loose modest outfit

You CANNOT wear:

Niqab (face veil that touches the face)

Gloves

Pro Tip: You CAN cover your face with a loose cloth that hangs from your head and doesn't touch your face when non-mahram men are nearby.

Menstruation During Hajj/Umrah

This is one of the most common concerns. Here's what you need to know:

If your period starts BEFORE Ihram:

Take a shower (ghusl) and enter Ihram - yes, you can!

Make your intention for Hajj/Umrah

Recite Talbiyah

You're in a valid state of Ihram even while menstruating

What you CAN do while menstruating:

Stay in the Masjid courtyard (outdoor areas)

Stand at Arafat (the most important pillar!)

Stay at Muzdalifah

Stone the Jamarat

Perform Sa'i between Safa and Marwah

Make dua anywhere

Listen to Quran recitation

What you CANNOT do:

Enter the actual Masjid building

Perform Tawaf (circling the Kaaba)

What if my period doesn't end before I have to leave?

For Umrah: You must wait until pure to complete Tawaf

For Hajj: The Farewell Tawaf is waived for menstruating women (according to the majority of scholars)

Using Medication to Delay Periods

Many scholars permit using medication to delay menstruation for Hajj. This is considered permissible because:

It allows you to worship without interruption

The Prophet (peace be upon him) did not prohibit it

It doesn't change the natural creation, just delays temporarily

Important: Consult your doctor first and start the medication well in advance to test how your body reacts.

Mahram Requirement

The majority of scholars require a woman to have a mahram (male guardian who she cannot marry) for Hajj.

Who qualifies as a mahram:

Husband

Father, grandfather

Brother (full, half, or foster)

Son, grandson

Uncle (paternal or maternal)

Nephew

Recent developments: Saudi Arabia now allows women over 45 to perform Hajj/Umrah without a mahram if traveling with an organized group. Check current regulations before booking.

Practical Tips for Women

Packing essentials:

Extra hijabs and pins (you'll sweat a lot!)

Feminine hygiene products

Comfortable, breathable abayas

Non-slip sandals for Tawaf

Small bag that crosses your body

Unscented wipes and sanitizer

During Tawaf:

Women walk normally (no jogging like men)

The upper floors are less crowded

Wheelchair assistance is available if needed

During Sa'i:

Women do NOT jog between the green markers

Walk at a comfortable pace throughout