Is It Permissible for a Woman to Ride a Motorcycle?
Answered by Shaykh Abdul-Rahim Reasat
Question
Is it permissible for a woman to ride a motorcycle?
Answer
I pray you are well.
The Basic Ruling
There is nothing inherently impermissible in a woman riding a motorcycle. The act itself is permissible.
Observing Modesty and Conduct
However, the general rulings of dress and modesty apply, as they do in all situations. Whether one is walking, going out with family, or engaging in any activity, the requirement remains that the awra is properly covered and that one conducts oneself with dignity.
As long as these conditions are fulfilled, riding a motorcycle would be permissible.
Historical Context
The women among the Companions rode camels and horses, which indicates that such forms of transportation are not impermissible in themselves. The key consideration is maintaining proper conduct and modesty.
Considering Community Norms
It is also wise to be mindful of one’s community. In some places, cultural sensitivities may lead to negative reactions, even if the act itself is permissible. While this does not make the action unlawful, it is something to consider.
[Shaykh] Abdul-Rahim
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Shaykh Abdul-Rahim Reasat began studying Arabic Grammar and Morphology whilst studying for a degree in English and History. After graduating, He traveled to Damascus and studied Arabic, Hanafi Fiqh, Usul al-Fiqh, Theology, and Logic with Shaykh Adnan Darwish, Shaykh ‘Abd al-Rahman Arjan al-Binsawi, Shaykh Husayn Darwish, Shaykh Muhammad Darwish, the late Shaykh Rashad Shams, and others. He then moved to Amman to continue his studies in those fields, as well as in Tafsir, Quranic Sciences, Hadith Methodology and Commentary, Prophetic Biography, Prophetic Perfections and Traits, Rhetoric, Arabic Literature, and Tajwid. His teachers include Shaykh Ali ‘Hani, Dr. Hamza al-Bakri, Dr. Salah Abu al-Hajj, Dr. Mansur Abu Zina, Shaykh Ahmad Hasanat, Shaykh Ahmad Jammal, and others.
