Umrah for Women Pilgrims: Do’s and Don’ts

Umrah is a sacred Islamic pilgrimage performed to regain spiritual strength and peace in Islam. Since there is no bigger virtue than devoting your time and wealth to Allah, all Muslim men and women must perform Umrah at least once in their lifetime. However, the set of rules for both men and women pilgrims are slightly different, and they are bound to follow them strictly. If you are all set to visit Mecca and Medina with the cheapest Umrah packages from India, then you should take a quick look at the do's and don'ts for women pilgrims during Umrah.

Entering the State of Ihram: Unlike men, women are not required to wear unstitched clothes for entering into the state of Ihram. Ihram for women is plain clothes since its basic concept is to lean yourself into Allah. Make sure to take a bath or wash your body parts for purification prior to entering into Ihram.

Traveling with a Mahram: Women are only allowed to perform Umrah with their mahrams and not alone. A mahram can be a woman's husband, father, mother, brothers, sisters, grandparents, children, grandchildren, stepchildren, etc. Women above the age of 45 years are permitted to perform Umrah without their mahrams with a group of other older ladies.

Menstruation and Postnatal Period: Women during their menstruation and postnatal bleeding are forbidden from performing Umrah. Women should plan their Umrah accordingly and should also avoid visiting Haram during pregnancy.

Maintaining Safe Distances: During Tawaf and Sa'i, women are recommended to maintain a clear and safe distance from the crowd of men. A separate space has been assigned for female pilgrims to prevent any mishappening or unwanted interaction with non-mahrams. Also, they are advised to stay with their mahrams only.

Taqsir Ritual: The last ritual of Umrah, Taqsir, meaning shaving off the heads completely, is somewhat different for women. Women only cut an inch of their hair as part of the ritual. Also, women are not allowed to say Talbiyah (Muslim prayer) loudly like men.

Simplicity and Modesty: Women must refrain themselves from wearing jewelry, makeup, glittery clothes, or scents of any kind. Hajj and Umrah are all about simplicity and Allah, so that your soul can be connected with Allah without wandering anywhere else. Most Umrah agents provide a guide with their Umrah packages for the convenience of first-timers.

Performing Umrah is a profound spiritual journey for both men and women, but it's essential for women to be aware of these do's and don'ts to ensure a meaningful and respectful pilgrimage. Following these guidelines will help women fulfill their Umrah with devotion and purity, strengthening their connection with Allah.