What is the criterion for a secure company that permits a woman to travel for Hajj without a mahram, and does this ruling apply to travel for purposes other than Hajj, and can the Hadith of the "Dha'inah" (traveling woman) be used as evidence for the permissibility of a woman traveling without a mahram when security is assured?

Scholars have differed regarding the permissibility of a woman traveling without a mahram:

- The Malikis and Shafi'is permitted it specifically for the obligatory Hajj, provided there is a safe companionship. - The Hanafis and Hanbalis absolutely prohibited it.

Those who permitted it cited the Almighty's saying: {And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka‘bah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, those who can afford the expenses (for one’s conveyance, provision and residence)} [Al ‘Imran: 97], and the hadith of Adi ibn Hatim which indicates the travel of a dha‘inah (a married woman or one who rides in a palanquin) alone. Those who prohibited it cited the general prohibition in hadiths against a woman traveling without a mahram.

Those who permitted it differed on the condition for permissibility:

- Some stipulated the companionship of trustworthy women. - Some stipulated a safe companionship that includes both men and women. - Some stipulated only safety, even if she travels alone. - Some Malikis held that she may travel with large, safe caravans for all journeys.

The preponderant opinion is the permissibility of a woman traveling for the obligatory Hajj and obligatory 'Umrah with a safe companionship, even if it is on public transportation with mixed groups of people.