Is it permissible for a Muslim

Q: It is well-known that Muslim women who perform Hajj should be accompanied by their husbands, sons, fathers, or Muslim brothers to be allowed into the precincts of Al-Haram (the Sacred Mosque in Makkah). But what should be done in a situation like mine: my husband cannot accompany me due to his health condition, (Part No. 11; Page No. 93) my eighteen-year-old son is performing his two-year compulsory military service, and I am forty-eight years old and not guaranteed to live longer than two more years; how can I perform Hajj under these circumstances? Some Muslim brothers told me that it is permissible for me to perform Hajj without a Mahram (spouse or permanently unmarriageable relative), if I can find a group of at least five unmarried women, with one of them being knowledgeable in matters related to Hajj and who knows how to perform the rituals. Others told me that it is permissible for a Muslim woman to travel with a friend or a fellow sister in Islam who wants to perform Hajj with her husband, and that in this situation, the husband looks after both his wife and her friend. I am sure that you will help me by explaining the ruling on this matter.

A: One of the conditions of Hajj is to have the ability to do it and part of that ability is that woman has a Mahram with her. If a woman has no Mahram, it is not permissible for her to travel and Hajj is not obligatory on her, unless in the presence of a Mahram who agrees to travel with her. Allah (Exalted be He) says (what means): And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka‘bah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allâh, for those who are able to undertake the journey. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.