What is the nature of the relationship between a man and his maternal aunt, is it permissible for him to shake her hand, what is her status and rights in Islam, and can she uncover her face in front of him?

The maternal aunt holds an honorable status in Islam, for she is like a mother. This is supported by the prophetic tradition: "The maternal aunt is in the position of the mother." It has been mentioned in the interpretation of this hadith that she is like a mother in terms of custody, and some say in terms of righteousness, honor, and maintaining ties. Another hadith also attests to this, encouraging kindness to the maternal aunt as a path to repentance from sins. So, the maternal aunt is like a mother in terms of righteousness and good treatment.

The maternal aunt of one's father or mother is considered a maternal aunt to the person and their offspring, and the paternal aunt of one's father or mother is considered a paternal aunt to the person and their offspring.

The maternal aunt is a mahram (unmarriageable kin); therefore, it is permissible to shake her hand, be alone with her, and travel with her. It is also permissible for her to uncover her face in front of her sister's son, just as a mother does with her children. It is permissible for a woman to uncover her face, head, neck, arms, and part of her legs in front of her mahram relatives and other women, but it is not permissible for her to wear short, transparent, or tight clothing that describes the awrah (private parts) in front of them.