Is it possible to go for Hajj without a male Mahram?
Hajj is an annual pilgrimage that remains obligatory on every Muslim who is finically, physically and mentally able. It’s the fifth pillar of the Islamic faith, thus possesses great significance for Muslims. Annually, around 3-4 million Muslim pilgrims travel internationally to reach the city of Makkah, Saudia Arabia for the performance of Holy rituals. Hajj usually starts from eighth of Dhul Hijjah and lasts till the thirteenth of Dhul Hijjah.
Since going for hajj requires a strong and stable financial background with good health, Allah Almighty hasn’t made it necessary for every Muslim but who can perform it. However, with the presence of 5 Star cheap Hajj packages, the majority of Muslims can now afford to travel economically for Hajj and complete the religious obligation. Yet, some conditions are to be met. One of which is the accompanying of a Mahram with a woman.
What is Mahram?
A mahram is an unmarriageable kin with whom marriage is Haram (illegal) in Islam except for her husband. Alternatively, the people in front of whom, purdah is not obligatory can be identified as a mahram. For a woman, her mahram are;
1. Children she has breastfed.
2. Father.
3. Husband.
4. Brother.
5. Father in Law.
6. Nephew.
7. Grandfather.
8. Children.
9. Paternal or Maternal uncle. (Male siblings of mother and father)
Visa Application Requirement.
• For Women under 45 Years of Age;
Women under 45 years of age, in any condition, cannot travel alone without the presence of her male Mahram. In fact, the mahram travelling has to submit proof of kinship also. That includes birth or marriage certificates. A woman travelling for hajj without the presence of a male mahram is neither allowed to enter the kingdom nor leave it.
• For women who are older than 45 years;
Women who are over the age of 45 years can travel alone for hajj, without the accompanying of a Male mahram. However, under certain conditions.
1. She must travel with organized groups or her family.
2. The submission of a notarized No Objection Certificate (NOC) from her male mahram is necessary.
Saudi Vision 2030.
As part of its development plan, Saudi Vision 2030, The country’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has also recently revised its policies and a lot of new amendments were made. Prominently including;
• Permissibility of Umrah on tourist Visas.
• Waiver of 2nd Umrah fee.
• Authority for women to perform Umrah alone (without the presence of a Male Mahram).
• E-visa and Visa on Arrival Services.
However, for Hajj, women still have to travel with the presence of a Male Mahram. The predictions are that in the future, the Government might also eliminate this particular requirement. But for now, it is essential.
Therefore, if you are under 45 years of age, you must arrive in Kingdom with your male mahram for Hajj. If both of you are departing from different destinations, it is advised to unite at a common airport/place before arrival in Saudia Arabia. Otherwise, the entry would be denied.
