The Saudi government has significantly relaxed the strict Mahram (male guardian) requirement:
Women of all ages may now perform Hajj and Umrah without a Mahram, provided they travel with a trustworthy group (Refaqah Aminah). This is a major change from previous years.
A Mahram is a male relative whom a woman cannot marry: father, brother, son, uncle, grandfather, nephew, or husband.
Unlike men (who must wear white), women may wear any color. Black abayas are common, but not required. Choose comfortable, breathable fabric for the heat.
This is a primary concern for many sisters. Here's what you need to know:
This is the major Tawaf (Pillar of Hajj). You must wait until you are pure to perform it. If your flight cannot be changed, consult your scholar about options - some allow medication to delay the cycle.
Menstruating women are fully exempted from the Farewell Tawaf
Women do NOT jog in the first 3 rounds of Tawaf
Women walk normally through the green-lit area
Women only trim ~1 inch (fingertip length) of hair
The Prophet ﷺ was asked: "Is Jihad obligatory for women?" He replied: "Yes, upon them is a Jihad without fighting: Hajj and Umrah." (Ibn Majah)
Your Hajj is as valuable and accepted as any man's. Allah sees your struggles, your intention, and your devotion. May He accept your pilgrimage!