Women in Prayer

Women must cover their entire body during prayer except for the face and hands. This includes loose clothing that does not reveal the shape of the body. A prayer garment (khimar or prayer dress) is commonly used.

When praying alone, women pray quietly — they do not recite aloud during Fajr, Maghrib, or Isha as men do. However, when leading other women in prayer, a woman may recite aloud.

Women bring their arms closer to the body during ruku, rather than spreading them wide. The hands are placed on the knees, and the back is straight.

Women keep the body more compact during prostration — arms close to the sides and the stomach closer to the thighs. This differs from men who spread their arms away from the body.

Women can lead other women in prayer. When she does, she stands in the middle of the first row (not in front of the row as a male imam would). She does not need to stand in front.

Jumu'ah (Friday congregational prayer) is not obligatory for women, though they are welcome and encouraged to attend. If a woman attends, she prays with the congregation and listens to the khutbah.

During menstruation, a woman does not pray Salah and does not fast. This is a mercy — there is no sin and no makeup prayer required. She may continue all other ibadah: making dhikr, dua, reading/listening to Quran, and giving charity.

Women receive the full reward for praying at home. The Prophet ﷺ said the best prayer for a woman is in her home. Attending the masjid is permissible and encouraged, but it is entirely her choice.