Can Women Perform Umrah Alone? New Saudi Guidelines Explained (2025)
Introduction: Can Women Perform Umrah Alone in 2025?
For many Muslim women, the desire to perform Umrah is deeply personal. Traditionally, women needed a Mahram (male guardian) to undertake this journey. However, recent Saudi reforms have changed the rules, allowing greater independence for female pilgrims.
So, can women perform Umrah alone in 2025? The answer is YES. Saudi Arabia now allows women aged 18 and above to perform Umrah without a Mahram, provided they meet certain conditions.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover:
✅ New Saudi guidelines for solo female pilgrims.
✅ Visa requirements for women traveling alone.
✅ Safety tips and best practices for solo female Umrah.
✅ Common questions and answers.
1. Can Women Perform Umrah Alone? Understanding the New Saudi Guidelines
As of 2025, women can perform Umrah alone without a Mahram under specific conditions.
📜 Key Saudi Guidelines for Women Performing Umrah Alone:
✔️ Age Requirement: Women 18 years and older can perform Umrah without a Mahram.
✔️ Visa Type: Women can apply for either an Umrah visa or a Saudi tourist visa.
✔️ Group Travel: Solo female travelers are encouraged to join group tours for safety and convenience.
✔️ Accommodation: Women must stay in licensed hotels near the Haram.
✔️ Health Insurance: Mandatory for all female pilgrims.
📖 The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah confirmed:
“Women can now perform Umrah without a male guardian, provided they meet the visa requirements and travel conditions.”
🛑 Pro Tip: Always book your Umrah package through an authorized agency for smooth visa processing.
2. What Visa Do Women Need for Solo Umrah?
Women traveling alone for Umrah in 2025 can choose between:
1. Umrah Visa (Single Entry):
- Valid for 90 days.
- Allows Umrah and religious tourism.
- Cost: $130 – $150 USD (AED 480 – AED 550).
2. Saudi Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry):
- Valid for 1 year with 90 days per stay.
- Allows Umrah, tourism, and leisure travel.
- Cost: $135 – $160 USD (AED 500 – AED 590).
🛑 Pro Tip: The Saudi Tourist Visa is ideal for women planning to visit Makkah, Madinah, and other cities.
3. Requirements for Women Performing Umrah Alone
To perform Umrah without a Mahram, women must meet the following conditions:
📑 Document Requirements:
✔️ Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months.
✔️ Umrah or Tourist Visa: Apply via the Nusuk platform or authorized travel agency.
✔️ Health Insurance: Covers medical emergencies.
✔️ Vaccination Certificates: COVID-19, meningitis, and seasonal flu.
🏨 Accommodation Requirements:
✔️ Stay in licensed hotels near the Haram.
✔️ Provide hotel booking confirmation during visa application.
✈️ Travel Requirements:
✔️ Solo female pilgrims can travel alone or join group tours.
✔️ Direct flights from UAE, UK, USA, and other countries are available.
4. Safety Tips for Women Performing Umrah Alone
While Saudi Arabia is safe for female travelers, it’s important to follow best practices for a secure pilgrimage.
🚶♀️ Before Traveling:
✔️ Book through an authorized Umrah agency.
✔️ Ensure visa, flights, and hotels are confirmed.
✔️ Share your itinerary with family.
✔️ Download the Nusuk App for Umrah bookings.
🕌 During Umrah:
✔️ Stay in women-only prayer areas in Haram.
✔️ Carry ID and emergency contacts at all times.
✔️ Avoid crowded areas at night.
✔️ Use official Haram transport services.
💰 Financial Safety:
✔️ Carry limited cash and use credit cards.
✔️ Use a money belt for valuables.
📞 Emergency Contacts:
✔️ Saudi Emergency Number: 911
✔️ Nusuk Helpline: Available 24/7
🛑 Pro Tip: Join female-only Umrah groups for added safety and companionship.
5. Accommodation Options for Solo Female Travelers
Women traveling alone must book licensed hotels near the Haram.
🏨 Recommended Hotels Near Haram (Makkah):
- Al Kiswah Towers Hotel (3-star) – Budget-friendly, 10 mins from Haram.
- Elaf Bakkah Hotel (4-star) – Comfortable stay, 7 mins from Haram.
- Pullman Zamzam Makkah (5-star) – Luxury stay, inside the Haram complex.
🏨 Recommended Hotels Near Masjid Nabawi (Madinah):
- Leader Al Muna Kareem (3-star) – Affordable, 5 mins from Masjid Nabawi.
- Dar Al Taqwa Hotel (4-star) – Ideal location, 3 mins from Haram.
- Anwar Al Madinah Mövenpick (5-star) – Premium stay, near the mosque.
🛑 Pro Tip: Book hotels within walking distance of the Haram for convenience and safety.
6. How Much Does Solo Umrah Cost for Women in 2025?
The total cost depends on the visa type, accommodation, and travel preferences.
💰 Solo Umrah Cost Breakdown (USD):
| Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler | Luxury Traveler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visa Fee | $130 – $150 | $130 – $150 | $130 – $150 |
| Flights | $300 – $700 | $800 – $1,500 | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Accommodation | $40 – $80/night | $100 – $200/night | $300 – $500/night |
| Transport | $30 – $100 | $150 – $300 | $500+ |
| Daily Food | $10 – $20/day | $30 – $50/day | $100+/day |
| Total (7-10 days) | $1,200 – $1,800 | $2,500 – $3,500 | $5,000+ |
🛑 Pro Tip: Travel during off-peak months (February, March, October) for lower costs.
7. What Are the Benefits of Performing Umrah Alone?
While many women prefer traveling with family, performing Umrah alone offers unique spiritual rewards:
❤️ Spiritual Freedom: Focus entirely on worship and self-reflection.
🕌 Personalized Itinerary: Perform rituals at your own pace.
💪 Empowerment: Gain confidence and independence.
🤝 Community: Connect with other female pilgrims.
📖 The Prophet (PBUH) said:
“The best of journeys is one taken for the sake of Allah.”
8. FAQs About Women Performing Umrah Alone
Q1: Can women under 18 perform Umrah without a Mahram?
No, women under 18 still require a Mahram for Umrah.
Q2: Can women perform Umrah alone during Ramadan?
Yes, women can perform Umrah alone during Ramadan, provided they meet the visa requirements.
Q3: Is it safe for women to travel alone for Umrah?
Yes, Saudi Arabia is safe for solo female pilgrims, especially around the Haram areas.
Q4: Can women book Umrah packages without a Mahram?
Yes, many authorized travel agencies offer women-only Umrah packages.
Q5: Are there female-only prayer areas in the Haram?
Yes, both Masjid al-Haram (Makkah) and Masjid Nabawi (Madinah) have women-only sections.
9. Conclusion: Can Women Perform Umrah Alone?
In 2025, women can perform Umrah alone without a Mahram, thanks to new Saudi reforms. By following the official guidelines, women can enjoy a safe, independent, and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage.
✅ Key Takeaways:
- Age: 18 years and older.
- Visa: Umrah or Saudi tourist visa.
- Accommodation: Licensed hotels near Haram.
- Safety: Travel in groups or stay in crowded areas.
💡 Planning your solo Umrah? Book through an authorized travel agency, stay connected with family, and focus on your spiritual goals.