Saudi Arabia Issues Dress Code for Female Umrah Pilgrims

Mecca, Saudi Arabia – The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued a dress code for female Umrah pilgrims, requiring them to wear loose, non-decorative clothing that does not reveal any part of the body.

The ministry said the dress code is intended to ensure the modesty and dignity of female pilgrims.

Under the new rules, female Umrah pilgrims must wear clothing that is:

• Loose-fitting and covers the entire body, including the arms and legs
• Non-decorative, with no embellishments or jewelry
• Made of natural materials, such as cotton or wool

The ministry said that female Umrah pilgrims may wear any type of clothing that meets these criteria, including a headscarf, abaya, or other traditional Islamic dress.

The new dress code is in line with the ministry’s efforts to promote modesty and religious observance among Umrah pilgrims.

Background

Umrah is a pilgrimage to Mecca that can be performed at any time of the year. It is a shorter and less demanding pilgrimage than Hajj, which is required of all Muslims who are physically and financially able to make the journey.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has taken steps to tighten its enforcement of Islamic law, including dress codes for women in public places.