The ruling on the Hajj of women from Makkah without a mahram

His Eminence the Shaykh: Some women from within Makkah go to perform Hajj without a mahram, joining groups of women via group transport. Is this permissible?
The correct view is that it is not permissible for a woman to perform Hajj except with a mahram, even if she is from the people of Makkah. This is because the distance between Makkah and 'Arafah is considered travel according to the stronger position. For this reason, the people of Makkah shortened their prayers with the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) at the sacred sites.