What is the ruling on women embracing and kissing each other, and is it obligatory to inform less-observant relatives of its prohibition if it is a common custom?

The ruling on hugging and kissing between individuals of the same gender varies. Some scholars have absolutely disapproved of it, while others consider it a Sunnah for someone returning from a journey but dislike it otherwise. Still others have permitted it absolutely, and no one has deemed it forbidden.

As for a woman with her male mahrams, the preponderant opinion is that there is no objection to a woman kissing and hugging them. However, with a non-mahram man (ajnabi), it is Haram by consensus. It is imperative to explain the truth to family members with gentleness and wisdom.