Is touching a foreign woman without intercourse considered Zina (adultery/fornication)?

Touching a non-mahram woman without intercourse is not the type of fornication that incurs a prescribed legal punishment (hadd). Rather, it is considered fornication of the limbs and a sin that necessitates sincere repentance. It is one of the preludes to actual sexual fornication. It is advised not to be alone with non-mahram women and to lower one's gaze from what is unlawful. For those who are unable to marry, they should fast, as it is a protection against fornication.