Am I obligated to wear the niqab in a country where niqabis are numerous and I am subjected to gazes from men, even though I wear complete Islamic attire? Is it permissible for me not to wear it when traveling if I am not fully prepared for the step of wearing the niqab? Am I sinful if I ignore these gazes and remain without the niqab?
Scholars have differed regarding the ruling on a woman covering her face in front of non-mahram men. The preponderant opinion is that it is obligatory, and a woman must adhere to it, especially if her face is alluring to men. However, if she follows an opinion that does not deem it obligatory, there is no sin upon her for uncovering her face.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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