In the past, women weren't allowed to make the Umrah journey without a male relative. It was previously compulsory for female pilgrims booking Umrah trips out of London or any other city to go with a male Mahram. A valid reason was required to award her an umrah visa.

Who is Mahram for a woman?
It is forbidden for a lady to marry anybody other than her Mahram. Things like;

1. Those of Her Parents.
2. A grandparent of hers.
3. A different set of ancestors.
4. Those who share a parent.
5. A relative of an ancestor.
6. Uncles on either mother's or father's side.
7. Youngsters.
8. Sibling grandchild.
9. In Islamic law, a woman's spouse automatically qualifies as her Mahram.

For this reason, a woman's Umrah visa application required evidence of her Mahram relationship with her male travel companion.

Amendments made under the Saudi Vision 2030 plan.

The Saudi Vision 2030 plan, which aims to improve the country's tourism industry and economic infrastructure, coincided with a change in the kingdom's approach to the Hajj and Umrah. Women can now perform Umrah independently, thanks to new regulations enforced by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

Women no longer need a male mahram to accompany them on their Umrah pilgrimage if they wish to do so under the Saudi Vision 2030 plan. They are welcome in the country, they can independently complete the rites of Umrah, and they can participate in other religious/pilgrimage activities.

However, it's important to be aware that women who aren't accompanied by a Mahram on their Umrah journey must adhere to certain laws and conditions. They are subject to change based on the nature of the discussion at hand and MoHU regulations. In order to avoid any complications during your trip, you should check the most up-to-date laws and regulations for Umrah travel for women without a mahram before you go.

Age Restrictions.
Women must be at least 25 years old to do the Umrah rituals on their own.

Group Travel.
A female imam (guide) may or may not be required for these women if they choose to travel in a group.

Documentation.
Documentation requirements for women performing Umrah without a mahram are the same as for men. Things like;

1. A current, valid passport.
2. Submit a visa application.
3. Confirmation that travel arrangements have already been made.
4. Medical coverage.
5. Itinerary.
6. A recent snapshot that is passport size.
7. Proof of vaccinations.

However, a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from her family or husband must also be shown in order for woman to travel unaccompanied.

Accommodation Arrangements.
Women must ensure that they have accommodations in the areas set aside for them, away from male pilgrims.

Transportation Arrangements.
Transportation for women must also be arranged in a way that keeps them safe, secure, private, and comfortable while simultaneously being kept distinct from men.

Adhering to Islamic Guidelines.

Female visitors to the monarchy are urged to dress modestly.
Consultation guidelines must be consistent with applicable laws.
Women should avoid interacting with men unless absolutely essential.
Women pilgrims are encouraged to use the designated prayer places for women within Haramain.
When performing Umrah alone, ladies should avoid attracting the attention of non-mahram males by excessive self-grooming, perfume use, or chatter.
Keep your distance from other male pilgrims at all times. In particular, when performing the Tawaf or Sayee prayers.
It is inappropriate for women to recite the Talbiyah aloud like men do.
Raml is optional for female pilgrims as well.

These are the rules a woman must follow if she wants to perform Umrah without a male mahram.