The ruling on a woman completely shaving her hair when exiting the sacred state after Hajj or Umrah.
Learn the ruling on whether women can shave their hair during Hajj or Umrah exit according to the Egyptian Dar Al-Ifta and when it may be allowed.
Ruling on Women Shaving Hair During Hajj and Umrah Exit – Dar Al-Ifta Explains
What is the ruling on women shaving their hair?
Egyptian Dar Al-Ifta clarified that the basic ruling for women during the exit (Tahallul) from Hajj or Umrah is trimming the hair, not shaving it.
It explained that an adult woman is not permitted to shave all her hair, but instead must cut a small portion from its ends.
Trimming is the prescribed act for women
Difference between men and women in rituals
The fatwa highlighted that:
- Shaving or trimming is part of Hajj and Umrah rituals
- Shaving is prescribed for men
- Women are required to trim only
This is based on the Prophet’s saying: “Women are not required to shave; they are only required to trim.”
How should women trim their hair?
Proper trimming includes:
- Cutting a small portion from the ends of the hair
- Preferably trimming from all sides
- A small amount is sufficient to fulfill the ritual
Evidence from Islamic sources
From the Qur’an
Allah says:
“You will surely enter Al-Masjid Al-Haram, if Allah wills, in safety, with your heads shaved and hair shortened.”
From the Sunnah
The Prophet ﷺ prayed for those who shaved their heads and then for those who trimmed, while other narrations specify that shaving is for men, not women.
Are there any exceptions?
Cases where shaving is allowed
Egyptian Dar Al-Ifta stated that exceptions include:
- If a woman has a medical or harmful condition
- If she is a minor who has not reached puberty
In these cases, shaving is permissible.
Scholarly consensus on the ruling
Agreement among scholars
Scholars agree that:
- Women should not shave their hair during rituals
- Trimming replaces shaving in their case
Imam Al-Nawawi reported a consensus, explaining that shaving is not prescribed for women.
Wisdom behind the ruling
Preserving dignity and nature
This ruling takes into account:
- A woman’s natural appearance
- Preservation of her beauty
- Ease in performing the ritual
FAQ
Can women shave their hair during Hajj or Umrah?
No, adult women should not shave their hair; they must trim it instead.
How much hair should be trimmed?
A small portion from the ends of the hair is sufficient.
Are there exceptions to this rule?
Yes, if there is harm or if the woman is a minor, shaving is allowed.
Is shaving better than trimming for women?
No, trimming is the prescribed act for women.
Is this ruling disputed among scholars?
No, there is a scholarly consensus that women should trim, not shave.
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