A woman performing Tawaf while uncovering her face

Q 1: Is it permissible for women who are performing Hajj or `Umrah (lesser pilgrimage) to uncover their faces while they are making Tawaf(circumambulation of the Ka`bah) in the presence of Ajanib (men other than a husband or permanently unmarriageable male relatives)?

A: A woman's face is part of her `Awrah (parts of the body that must be covered in public) which is impermissible to be uncovered in the presence of non-Mahrams (not a spouse or unmarriageable relatives), whether she is performing Tawaf or at other times, and whether she is a Muhrim (pilgrim in the ritual state for Hajj or `Umrah) or non-Muhrim. If a lady makes Tawaf with her face uncovered, she is considered sinful, yet her Tawaf is valid. It should be noted that women have to cover their faces with something other than Niqab (face veil) when they are in Ihram (ritual state for Hajj and ‘Umrah). (Part No. 11; Page No. 194) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.