Scholars have two different views on this question. The first view states that it is not permissible for a Muslim man to shake hands with a woman who is unrelated to him, or for a Muslim woman to shake hands with a man who is unrelated to her. This is the view of the majority of scholars, and included in Decision 23 (11-3) of the International Fiqh Academy. It is also upheld by Shaikh Abd al-Azeez ibn Baz. A Muslim who feels embarrassed for not shaking hands should offer a courteous apology, explaining that this is required by his faith.
