The Ruling on Looking at Women

Question :

Is a man punished for looking at women in the Sacred if City (of Makkah), even if it is without desire and without pleasure, bearing in mind that it is women who attract looks?

Answer:

The truth is that the problem of women is a big problem in the Sacred City, because there are some women who come to this place which is a place of worship and humility - in a manner which causes temptation (Fitnah) for those who would not (otherwise) be tempted. The woman comes display- ing her charms, perfumed and possibly showing by her move- ments that she is flirting with men, and this is a detestable action outside the Sacred Mosque, so what about inside the Sacred Mosque?
My advice to those (women) who hear or read it is to fear Allah, Most High within themselves and to respect the House of Allah, the Almighty, the All-Powerful by keeping it free from acts of disobedience therein. As for the men, if they see a woman behaving in an impermissible manner, they should advise her, reproach her, or inform those who are able to prevent her and reproach her. And there is goodness within the people all praise and thanks be to Allah.

But having said this, we say: It is incumbent upon the man to avert his gaze as much as he is able:
"Tell the believing men to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things), and protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts, etc.)"

Therefore, he should avert his gaze as much as he is able, especially if he senses feelings of pleasure or lust within himself, then it is obligatory for him to avert his gaze more and more and in this regard, the people differ greatly.

Source:
Ibn 'Uthaimin
Fatawa Islamiyah, Vol. 5 Pages 102-103