Introduction
For countless Muslim women around the world, Umrah is more than just a journey — it’s a deeply personal act of worship and spiritual renewal. Unlike Hajj, which is obligatory once in a lifetime, Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage that can be performed at any time of the year, offering a unique opportunity for women to reconnect with their faith, seek forgiveness, and experience the serenity of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need for customized Umrah experiences for women. From modest travel arrangements to women-only Umrah packages, today’s female pilgrims can benefit from well-thought-out itineraries that prioritize safety, comfort, and religious correctness.
Many travel agencies now offer a variety of seasonal Umrah packages — such as those for spring, summer, or Ramadan — with flexible dates and accommodations. In addition, 3-star, 4-star, and 5-star Umrah packages near the Haram are designed to meet the different needs of women, whether traveling alone, in groups, or with family. These curated options allow for better access to female-friendly accommodations, separate prayer areas, and support teams led by female guides (mutawwifahs) — all essential for a smooth and respectful pilgrimage.
Understanding Umrah for Women
a. What is Umrah and Who Can Perform It?
Umrah is a non-mandatory but highly rewarding pilgrimage to Makkah, involving a series of sacred rituals. For women, it’s a chance to deeply connect with their spirituality, free from daily distractions, and to perform acts of worship in one of Islam’s holiest cities.
One of the most empowering changes for Muslim women recently is the updated mahram rules from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Now, women from many countries can perform Umrah without a mahram (male guardian), provided they are part of a secure and organized travel group. This change has opened doors for solo female pilgrims or groups of sisters, friends, and mothers and daughters to plan their spiritual journey with confidence and independence.
However, even with this change, safety remains a priority. That’s why many agencies now offer group Umrah for ladies, led by female coordinators and mutawwifahs, ensuring that all religious and travel needs are met comfortably and respectfully.
b. Key Rituals in Umrah (Step-by-Step for Women)
Women perform the same rituals as men during Umrah, with a few gender-specific considerations related to attire, physical movement, and privacy.
Ihram for Women
Before reaching the Miqat (the designated station where pilgrims make their intention), women enter the state of Ihram. Unlike men, women do not wear specific garments — instead, they wear modest, non-transparent clothing, such as a loose-fitting abaya and a scarf or hijab that covers the hair but not the face.
Before crossing the Miqat, women should:
- Make Niyyah (intention) for Umrah in their heart
- Say the Talbiyah: Labbaik Allahumma Umrah…
Tawaf (Circumambulation)
Once at Masjid al-Haram, the first major ritual is Tawaf — circling the Kaaba seven times. Women perform Tawaf in the same way as men, although they may be guided to separate or less crowded areas for comfort and safety. Early morning or late-night Tawaf times are often quieter and ideal for women.
Sa’i (between Safa and Marwah)
After completing Tawaf, women perform Sa’i, which involves walking briskly between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times. There is a green-lit zone where men are encouraged to run, but women walk normally throughout. If elderly or tired, women may use a wheelchair, which is readily available at the mosque.
Zamzam Water
After Sa’i, drinking Zamzam water is highly recommended. It’s located in multiple cooling stations around the mosque and is a sacred part of the pilgrimage.
Taqsir (Hair Trimming)
To complete Umrah, women perform Taqsir, which means cutting a small portion of their hair — typically around an inch from the ends. This act symbolizes humility and spiritual renewal.
What to Wear: Umrah Clothing for Women
One of the most common questions first-time pilgrims ask is: “What should women wear during Umrah?” Choosing the right Umrah clothing for women is not just about comfort — it’s also a matter of religious modesty, climate appropriateness, and ease during rituals. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, wearing proper Umrah clothes for women ensures you can focus on your spiritual journey without distraction.
a. Clothing Guidelines According to Islamic Principles
When it comes to clothes for Umrah women, the guiding principle is modesty. According to Islamic teachings, women should dress in a way that covers the entire body (except the face and hands), using loose-fitting, non-transparent, and non-revealing garments.
Here are the key clothing guidelines for women during Umrah:
- Wear an abaya for Umrah that is loose, long, and does not outline the shape of the body.
- A hijab or scarf must cover the hair and neck properly.
- The face and hands should remain uncovered during rituals.
- Choose garments that are not see-through even in strong lighting.
- Avoid clothing that draws unnecessary attention, even if it’s fashionable.
b. Recommended Umrah Clothes for Women
Here’s a checklist of women’s clothes for Umrah that are both modest and practical, especially for rituals that require a lot of walking and physical movement.
Essential Umrah Clothing for Women:
- Breathable abayas (lightweight, long-sleeved, and loose)
- Cotton scarves or hijabs (plain and lightweight for better airflow)
- Slip-on shoes or sandals (easy to remove during Tawaf and prayers)
- Comfortable undergarments (soft, sweat-wicking, and discreet)
- Prayer dress or overhead jilbab (for quick access to prayer-ready clothing)
- Socks (to maintain hygiene and comfort in masjids)
c. Climate & Season-Based Clothing Advice
The climate in Makkah and Madinah can vary depending on the time of year, but in general, hot and dry weather dominates most months. Choosing clothes for Umrah women that are suitable for the climate is essential to avoid exhaustion and overheating.
Tips for Summer Umrah:
Opt for breathable fabric for hot weather, such as cotton or linen.
Avoid synthetic materials that trap heat.
Go for light-colored abayas to reflect sunlight.
Wear loose-fitting Islamic dresses that allow air circulation.
Monthly Umrah Packages for Women
Choosing the right time to perform Umrah can significantly impact your overall experience — especially for women looking for peaceful environments, affordable deals, and climate-friendly travel. That’s where monthly Umrah packages for women come in. These packages are carefully designed to align with seasonal preferences, school holidays, and off-peak pricing, making it easier for sisters, mothers, daughters, and even solo travelers to plan their sacred journey with ease.
Most reputable agencies now offer women-only Umrah packages that include:
- Return flights to Jeddah or Madinah
- Visa processing assistance for female travelers
- Accommodation near Masjid al-Haram
- Group Umrah for ladies, often led by a female tour guide (mutawwifah)
- Easy access to female prayer areas
- On-ground support from a female travel support team
Let’s explore the seasonal Umrah deals by month and how to choose the best one for your needs:
September Umrah Package for Women
Why choose September?
- Moderate crowds after Hajj season
- Slightly cooler weather begins to settle in Makkah and Madinah
- Ideal for teachers, students, and working women with post-summer break flexibility
September is one of the best months for women who prefer a quieter pilgrimage and fewer queues at Zamzam water stations and Tawaf areas. Female pilgrims can also find good hotel deals near Masjid al-Haram, especially with 3-star and 4-star Umrah packages.
Look for affordable Umrah deals for women that include breakfast and airport transfers to Jeddah airport (King Abdulaziz International Airport) or Madinah for added convenience.
October Umrah Package for Women
Why choose October?
- Comfortable climate continues
- Travel costs remain relatively low
- Popular for group travel and elderly women’s Umrah support
October is perfect for women who prefer traveling in groups. Many agencies offer group Umrah for ladies with full support including wheelchair assistance, female-only rooms, and a mutawwifah to guide rituals like Tawaf and Sa’i.
Best time to perform Umrah for women?
October offers the perfect balance of mild weather and less crowd pressure, making rituals smoother for first-timers or older women.
November Umrah Package for Women
Why choose November?
- Lower temperatures ideal for walking
- Great time to book all-inclusive Umrah packages
- School term time = fewer crowds
For women planning a more relaxed and less crowded journey, November is a top choice. With cooler evenings and easier movement around the Haram, it’s an excellent time to focus on spirituality without feeling rushed or fatigued.
Look for packages that include:
- Proximity to hotels near Haram
- Access to women-friendly Ziyarat sites in Madinah
- Private or shared female rooms with on-site prayer facilities
December Umrah Package for Women
Why choose December?
- Winter breaks = perfect for family or friend groups
- Peak travel season, so early booking is a must
- Ideal for female school staff, students, and families
December is popular due to the winter holidays in the UK and other countries. If you’re planning to go with female relatives or friends, this is the time to book women-only Umrah packages early to secure good pricing.
While crowd levels increase in late December, the cooler weather makes rituals like Sa’i between Safa and Marwah more manageable, especially for elderly women or those with mobility concerns.
Which Month is Best for Women to Perform Umrah?
| Month | Weather | Crowds | Best For |
| September | Warm but manageable | Low | Budget-conscious, flexible travelers |
| October | Pleasant and breezy | Moderate | Group travelers, elderly support |
| November | Cool & calm | Low | Solo women, peaceful rituals |
| December | Coolest weather | High (late) | Families, students, holiday season |
Book early for December Umrah deals, and consider September or November if you’re seeking a quieter, more spiritual environment.
Explore Our Tailored Umrah Packages for Women
Choosing the right Umrah package as a woman means more than just comparing prices — it’s about comfort, proximity to holy sites, safety, and services that support your spiritual goals. Our women-specific Umrah packages are thoughtfully curated to provide a stress-free and spiritually focused journey, whether you’re traveling alone, with other women, or as part of a group.
Each package includes:
- Visa processing
- Return flights to Jeddah or Madinah
- Airport transfers
- Accommodations near Masjid al-Haram or Masjid an-Nabawi
- Support from a female travel team
- Optional guidance by a female tour guide (mutawwifah)
- Special services for elderly women, including wheelchair availability
Let’s explore the options:
a. 3-Star Umrah Packages for Women
Ideal for budget-conscious female travelers seeking modest comfort without sacrificing essential amenities. Our 3-star Umrah packages ensure a peaceful experience close to Haram at an affordable rate.
3 Star 7 Nights Umrah Package
3-night stay in Makkah + 4-night stay in Madinah
Clean, basic accommodation within walking distance to the Haram
Shared or private female rooms
Female support staff available
Ideal for short spiritual getaways
3 Star 10 Nights Umrah Package
5 nights in Makkah + 5 nights in Madinah
Access to women-only prayer areas
Easy transport to Ziyarat sites (women-friendly locations)
Guidance available on rituals like Tawaf and Taqsir
3 Star 14 Nights Umrah Package
Perfect for those wanting to spend extended time in Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi
Includes meals and prayer-friendly schedules
Special care for elderly women, including assistance at Miqat an
Female-friendly accommodations include prayer areas inside hotels, female-only floors (where available), and walking access to Haram gates.
4-Star Umrah Packages for Women
A step up in comfort, the 4-star packages balance value with premium convenience. Perfect for women traveling in small groups or with elderly companions.
4 Star 7 Nights Umrah Package
Located within 500–700 meters from Masjid al-Haram
Mid-range hotels with in-room amenities and prayer facilities
Group travel option with mutawwifah support
Flexible flight and travel options to Jeddah or Madinah
4 Star 10 Nights Umrah Package
Extended spiritual stay with guided sessions on Ihram, Talbiyah, and Niyyah
Hotel services include female room attendants and halal dining options
Designed for ladies’ groups or mother-daughter duos
4 Star 14 Nights Umrah Package
Longer stay for those who want to soak in the spirituality of both cities
Transport between Makkah and Madinah arranged via private or Haramain train
Accommodations feature separate female prayer areas, elevators for easy access, and on-call support for elderly needs
c. 5-Star Umrah Packages for Women
Enjoy luxury, tranquility, and world-class service. These packages are for women who want an exclusive, peaceful, and fully supported Umrah journey.
5 Star 7 Nights Umrah Package
Premium hotels like Swissôtel, Pullman Zamzam, or Hilton Suites right next to the Haram
VIP check-in and female concierge
Close proximity for frequent Tawaf and Zamzam refills
Ideal for solo travelers seeking security and ease
5 Star 10 Nights Umrah Package
5 nights in Makkah, 5 nights in Madinah
Ziyarat tours with female tour guide
Prayer dress and other essentials included in package welcome kit
Private rooms available for added privacy and rest
5 Star 14 Nights Umrah Package
Designed for women looking to slow down and spiritually reconnect
All-inclusive Umrah package with full meal plan, laundry service, and daily guidance
Elderly pilgrims receive wheelchair assistance, room service support, and priority transfers
Travel and Safety Tips for Female Pilgrims
Performing Umrah as a woman is not only spiritually uplifting but also empowering — especially when you have the right information and support. Whether traveling solo or in a group, here are some essential travel and safety tips for female pilgrims to ensure a smooth, secure, and fulfilling journey.
Women-Only Umrah Groups
Joining a women-only Umrah group is one of the safest and most convenient options for female travelers. These groups are led by experienced female tour guides (mutawwifahs) who provide step-by-step religious guidance, cultural support, and emotional reassurance during rituals like Tawaf and Sa’i.
Group packages often include:
- Female-only room sharing
- Group Ziyarat tours
- Daily spiritual sessions
- Emergency assistance from a female travel support team
Updated Mahram Rules
According to recent updates by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, women can now perform Umrah without a mahram, as long as they’re traveling with a registered group. This change has made it easier for women of all ages to experience Umrah independently, but it’s still important to:
- Stay in verified accommodations
- Maintain regular communication with group leaders
What to Expect at the Airport, Hotels & Holy Sites
At the Airport (Jeddah or Madinah):
Keep documents like passport, visa, and hotel booking handy
Women should carry a headscarf and modest clothing in their hand luggage
Security checks are gender-separated
At the Hotel:
Most hotels near Masjid al-Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi offer female-only prayer spaces
3-star and above hotels have separate check-in counters or staff assistance for women
Request wheelchair availability or elderly assistance if needed
At the Holy Sites:
- Follow modesty guidelines strictly
- Use designated women’s prayer areas and rest zones
- Stay alert in crowded areas, especially during Tawaf and Sa’i
FAQs – Umrah for Women
What should women wear for Umrah?
Women should wear loose-fitting, non-transparent garments like an abaya for Umrah and a hijab that covers the hair but not the face. Lightweight cotton scarves, slip-on sandals, and prayer dresses are highly recommended.
Can women perform Umrah alone?
Yes. Thanks to updated mahram rules, women can now perform Umrah without a mahram, provided they are part of an authorized group with proper accommodations and travel support.
Are colored abayas allowed?
Yes, colored abayas are allowed in Umrah as long as they are modest, non-transparent, and don’t attract unnecessary attention. Neutral tones like navy, beige, and grey are good choices.
What is the best time to perform Umrah for women?
The best time to perform Umrah for women is during off-peak months like September, October, or November, when the weather is cooler and the crowds are thinner. December is ideal for families but tends to be busier.
Can I find women-only Umrah groups?
Absolutely. Many travel agencies now offer women-only Umrah groups with female guides, separate hotel arrangements, and specialized support for both solo women and elderly pilgrims.
Conclusion
Performing Umrah as a woman is not only possible — it can be a safe, comfortable, and deeply fulfilling experience when approached with the right preparation. Whether you’re traveling for the first time or returning for a spiritual recharge, today’s travel options are more inclusive and supportive than ever before. From women-only Umrah groups to tailored packages with female-friendly accommodations, every detail is designed to make your journey smooth and spiritually uplifting.
With flexible options across 3-star, 4-star, and 5-star Umrah packages, along with seasonal deals that align with school holidays and cooler weather, now is the perfect time to plan your trip.
Let your Umrah be peaceful, empowering, and tailored just for you.
