The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah recently confirmed that women under the age of 45 are now permitted to partake in the Umrah without the need for a male guardian, also referred to as a Mahram.

In a public response to an inquiry regarding whether a woman under the age of 45 can partake in the Umrah without the presence of a mahram, the Ministry confirmed that such women are not just eligible to apply for the visa but can also perform the Umrah independently or within a group of women.

Last week, the Ministry made further clarifications, stating that women aged 45 or older could apply for an Umrah visa, given they intended to perform the Umrah abroad.

Previously, women were permitted to participate in the Umrah or Hajj only if they were part of a group of women or accompanied by a Mahram. The current modifications in the Kingdom's regulations mark a significant change, likely to be welcomed by many Muslim women, as it lessens societal pressures and rules imposed on them.

The new ruling will prove particularly beneficial for women whose husbands are incapable of travelling. With the past requirements, these women would have had to be accompanied by a male relative, often resulting in additional travel and accommodation costs. However, under the new rule, these women will be able to significantly reduce their expenses.

This new rule has been praised as a considerable step forward, especially for older women who may lack the means or access to a mahram.

Last year marked a similar milestone, with Saudi Arabia allowing women to engage in the Hajj pilgrimage without the need for a male guardian, relative or mahram.