Is it permissible to dry oneself with a towel or a tissue after performing ablution?

It is permissible for one who has performed ablution to dry the parts of the body washed during ablution. This is the view of the majority of scholars, because the default rule for actions is permissibility. This is supported by what has been narrated concerning the actions of Uthman, Al-Hasan ibn Ali, Anas, and many other scholars who did so. As for the hadith of Maymunah regarding the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, returning the towel after ghusl (ritual bath), it is a specific incident that can be interpreted in several ways and does not indicate prohibition.