Al Khalid

Does a woman need a Mahram to travel to Hajj?

In spite of the various mixed reactions and perspectives that are thrown on the topic of Women’s status in Islam, the undeniable fact is that the value of their existence is immeasurable. For Women, Hajj is an act equivalent to fulfilling the requirement of Jihad.

According to the Quran, “And pilgrimage to the House is a duty unto God for mankind, for him who can find the way thither” (3:97). The same was also emphasized on by Prophet Muhammad (SAW). This obligation is of equal importance to both men and women. However, the protocol for adherence differs. The need for women to travel with a Mahram as they embark on the holy pilgrimage is debatable. A number of mixed opinions are shared about the same. A Mahram, is a male relative of the woman whom she is permanently not allowed to marry because of her blood ties, breastfeeding or ties through marriage. Different scholars speak differing views considering the age of the woman, the laws of the country where the pilgrimage is held, the incidences in the Quran, Fatwas, etc.

According to the Quran, for example: Sayyiduna Abu Sa’id al-Khudri (Allah be pleased with him) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said: “Let no woman travel for more than three days unless her husband or a Mahram is with her”. (Sahih Muslim). Many instances like these depict the view that women especially in the Shariah law aren’t permitted to travel without a Mahram to the holy land. Within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the rules and regulations specify that no woman under the age of 45 years can travel without a Mahram for Umrah and Hajj. However, once they have crossed that age they supposedly can travel without a Mahram but in groups with other women.

The purpose of having a Mahram accompanying the woman was not to underestimate her but to make her feel protected. Women in the Quran are looked on as absolutely sacred and maintaining their honour is a priority and a good deed. No one doubts the character of a woman but a Mahram is meant to keep her away from the eyes of evil works. Hence, she must be cared for, and her complete well being ensured in any way possible. It is said to be the responsibility of the Mahram to finance the pilgrimage of their mothers, wives, sisters, parents to Hajj and Umrah, at least once in a lifetime.