Fatwa ID: 08766

Written by Maulana Mohammed Aabu Saeed Miah

Question:

I keep reading that women should only go out due to need, but what exactly is a need? Can women go out for a walk for fresh air? My mother feels suffocated staying home so long, and takes walks occasionally in full hijab. Is this an issue?

Also does going out also include going out to your own backyard? Do you have to have a valid reason to go out to your own backyard?

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Answer:

Women are free to leave the house where they feel its safe. Islam does not encourage unjust restriction on women, and it shouldn’t be miss understood to do so. Women are free to go out on walks, as this is a need. It’s a need in respect to mental and physical wellbeing. Therefore, this is not an issue. One is free to enjoy their backyard. When going out into the backyard, one should still observe hijab, if necessary, as neighbours may be able to see.

Only Allah knows best.

Written by Maulana Mohammed Aabu Saeed Miah

Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham