Saudi rules now let women 18 and over perform Umrah without a male guardian. Here is what sisters in the USA need to know about visas, groups, hotels and planning.
Sisters often ask us: can I go for Umrah without a mahram? Here is what the rules say today, and how a group trip makes it easier.
What the Saudi rules say
Saudi Arabia no longer requires women to travel with a male guardian (mahram) for Umrah. Women aged 18 and over can apply for a visa and travel on their own or with a group. This has been in place since 2021 and applies to both the tourist eVisa and the Umrah visa routes.
The religious question is separate
The Saudi rule is about travel and visas. Scholars hold different views on whether a woman may travel for Umrah without a mahram, and under what conditions. We recommend you ask a scholar you trust before you book. Many sisters choose to travel with a group, with other families, or with a relative even when it is not required.
Why a group helps
- You are never alone at the airport, the hotel or the Haram.
- Transport between Makkah, Madinah and the airport is arranged for you.
- A guide helps with Ihram, Tawaf and Sa'i, and answers questions along the way.
Documents to prepare
- A US passport valid at least 6 months beyond your travel dates.
- Your visa. We offer visa application support; the Saudi authorities make every visa decision.
- The Nusuk app on your phone for permits at the Haram.
- Required vaccination records.
Hotels and safety
Ask any agency for the exact hotel names in writing before you pay, and how far each hotel is from the Haram. Close hotels mean less walking at night and easier prayer times. Keep your hotel card and your guide's number on you at all times.
Planning tips for sisters
- Pack modest, breathable clothing and comfortable broken-in shoes. See our guide on what to wear for Umrah.
- Women's prayer areas at the Haram have their own entrances; your guide will show you on day one.
- Ramadan and school breaks fill early. Book weeks ahead.
Travel with Amana Travel
Amana Travel has organized Umrah groups from Brooklyn since 2005. We are IATA/ARC accredited, and our team stays with the group from the first call to the last day in Madinah. Sisters traveling without a mahram are welcome in our scheduled Umrah packages. We can arrange for sisters to share a room with other sisters in the group.
Call (718) 491-6456 or visit us at 507 68th St, Brooklyn, for this season's packages.