Can a woman go for Umrah without a mahram?
Yes. In October 2021 the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah removed the mahram requirement for Umrah. A woman of any age can now travel for Umrah without a male guardian. There is no minimum age and no requirement to travel in a group, although most sisters prefer to.
A few practical points that go with that:
- Your Umrah visa is issued in your own name, the same as anyone else's
- Hotels in Makkah and Madinah accept women travelling without a mahram
- You still need travel insurance with medical cover, and the MenACWY vaccine
- Some families prefer a woman to travel with a group rather than alone. Ours is one way to do that
Our women only Umrah packages
|
Package
|
Nights (Makkah / Madinah) |
Hotels |
Travel dates |
From, per person
|
|
7-night women's group Umrah
|
4 / 3 |
4-star |
13 to 21 February 2027 |
£935
|
|
10 nights women's group Umrah
|
5 / 5 |
4-star |
20 to 30 November 2026 |
£1,025
|
Both include return flights from the UK, 4-star hotels near the Haram, your Umrah visa, daily breakfast and all transfers. Both are part of our full range of Umrah packages, and both are covered by Beat My Quote. Find the same package cheaper elsewhere and we will try to beat it.
If you would rather book your own flights, we also arrange Umrah packages without flights, where we handle the visa, hotels and transfers and you sort out the air travel yourself.
What to expect as a woman on Umrah
What to wear. There is no special ihram garment for women. Any modest, loose clothing you would normally wear is fine. During ihram, your face and hands should be uncovered. Bring comfortable shoes you can slip on and off, and a bag you can wear across your body.
Visiting the Rawdah. Women visit the Rawdah in Masjid an-Nabawi at set times, separate from men, and you need a booking through the Nusuk app. Slots go quickly. We book yours before you travel and your group leader takes you as a group. Praying in the Haram. There are women's areas on several levels in both mosques. Your group leader will show you where they are, where the wudu facilities are, and where to meet if you get separated.
Sharing a room. We match you with other sisters from the group, usually two to four per room. Tell us if you are travelling with a friend or relative and want to share with her. If you would rather have your own room, that costs extra. Your group leader. M Ali has led 50+ women's groups. She travels with you from the UK airport, handles check-ins and transfers, and explains each ritual before you do it. If it is your first Umrah, you will not be working anything out on your own.
When should you go?
Our February and November groups are the two we run most often. Makkah is cooler in those months, around 25°C to 30°C, and the Haram is far quieter than in Ramadan.
If you want to travel at another time of year, we can put a private women's group together for six or more sisters. Our Rabi ul Awwal Umrah packages are popular with sisters who want to be in Madinah during the Prophet's month, though those dates fall in August and Makkah is very hot then, so think about who is travelling with you.
Mothers travelling with daughters usually pick the February group, since it lines up with half term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can women go for Umrah without a mahram from the UK?
Yes. Since October 2021, Saudi Arabia allows women of any age to perform Umrah without a mahram. Travelling with an organised women's group is the most straightforward way to do it.
How much does a women's group Umrah cost?
From £935 per person for 7 nights and £1,025 for 10 nights. Both include return flights, 4-star hotels, visa, breakfast and transfers.
What happens if my period starts during Umrah?
You cannot enter the Haram or perform Tawaf while menstruating, but you can enter ihram, make your intention, make dua and take part in everything else. Your group leader will help you rearrange your Tawaf for later in the trip. Tell us your dates when you book and we will plan around them.
Who leads the group?
An experienced female group leader who travels with you for the whole trip and guides you through each ritual.
Will I have to share a room?
Yes, with other sisters from the group, usually two to four per room. Your own room costs extra. Tell us if you want to share with someone in particular.
Can I join if it is my first Umrah?
Yes. Many sisters in every group are first-timers. Your group leader explains ihram, Tawaf and Sa'i before you do them.
Do I need a Nusuk permit?
Yes, for entering the Grand Mosque and for the Rawdah in Madinah. Women's Rawdah slots are separate and limited. We book yours before you travel.
Which UK airports do the groups fly from?
Most groups leave from London. Manchester and Birmingham departures can often be arranged. Call 0203-970-4500 to check.
Is my booking protected?
Yes. ATOL 12192, held by Travixum Ltd. You get an ATOL certificate when you book.
