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Is it permissible for a woman to roll up her sleeves to free herself from traditions or to facilitate her movement at work where men can see her, not with the intention of temptation?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

It is not permissible for a woman to expose her forearms in front of non-mahram men, because they are considered 'awrah (private parts that must be covered) by the consensus of the majority of scholars. The only exception to this is a legitimate necessity, such as medical treatment, in which case only the necessary amount should be exposed. Some Hanafi jurists have permitted the exposure of the forearms when there is a need due to engaging in work that requires it. However, exposing them without need, especially if it is an act of rebellion against traditions and an imitation of the immoral, is undoubtedly forbidden, as it combines disobedience to Allah's command with a violation of legitimate customs and traditions.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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