Teachers Traveling Without a Mahram with the Driver's Wife

Question:
There is a matter that has become widespread and prevalent among people, which is that there are female teachers who work outside of Riyadh, for example. They gather and travel without a mahram, then return on the same day, knowing that the driver’s wife is with them. Please inform us of the ruling on this matter, may Allah grant you success?

Answer:
Some scholars held that there is no harm in this if the situation is safe, if they are safe and no evil is feared, and it is a safe method for a need. However, the correct view based on the evidence is that it is not permissible, due to the saying of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) . The Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) prohibited traveling except with a mahram. Therefore, it is obligatory that they do not travel unless they have mahrams with them. The presence of the driver’s wife is of no benefit except within the town. If it is within the town, from house to house, there is no harm, with the driver, if there is someone with them who removes seclusion, such as two, three, or four women, or with the driver’s wife, there is no harm. But as for traveling, no, a mahram is necessary. This is the correct view. She does not travel except with a mahram. Yes.

The presenter:
May Allah reward you,