Saudi Arabia has established a dress code for women performing the Umrah pilgrimage, a voluntary journey to holy sites in Mecca. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued guidelines that allow female pilgrims to choose their clothing while ensuring it adheres to certain conditions. These include wearing loose-fitting attire that covers the entire body and avoids decorative elements.
This new dress code is intended to accommodate female pilgrims and provide them with flexibility in their clothing choices while maintaining respect for religious and cultural norms. The Ministry’s statement emphasized that women can exercise their personal preferences when it comes to clothing for the Umrah pilgrimage.
Umrah is a significant religious practice for Muslims, and millions of pilgrims visit Mecca each year to undertake this spiritual journey. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah anticipates approximately 10 million international visitors during this Umrah pilgrimage season.
The introduction of this dress code reflects Saudi Arabia’s efforts to adapt to changing social dynamics and accommodate diverse cultural practices within the framework of Islamic tradition. It acknowledges the importance of respecting individual choices while upholding the values and principles of the pilgrimage.
Saudi Arabia has been making several reforms in recent years to enhance its tourism and pilgrimage sectors, including the introduction of e-visas and the development of tourist attractions. The dress code for female Umrah pilgrims aligns with these broader initiatives, making it easier for women to participate in this religious journey while respecting their preferences in attire.
