Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey that every Muslim dreams of undertaking. Unlike Hajj, which has specific dates according to the Islamic calendar, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year. However, choosing the right time can make your experience more comfortable and peaceful.
At Al Jazan Overseas (Private) Limited, we help pilgrims plan their Umrah journey with ease. In this guide, we’ll explore the best times to perform Umrah based on seasons, crowds, weather, and costs.
Table of Contents
1. Understanding the Islamic and Gregorian Calendar for Umrah
The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, meaning dates shift by about 10–12 days every year in the Gregorian calendar. This affects travel seasons, weather conditions, and crowd levels.
Islamic Months Ideal for Umrah
✔ Muharram & Safar (First two months) – Fewer crowds after Hajj season.
✔ Rabi’ al-Awwal & Rabi’ al-Thani – Comfortable weather, lower travel costs.
✔ Rajab & Sha’ban – Spiritual preparation for Ramadan, increasing crowds.
✔ Ramadan – Highly rewarding but busiest and most expensive.
✔ Shawwal, Dhul Qa’dah & Dhul Hijjah – Post-Hajj relaxation, best for peaceful Umrah.
📌 Historical Note:
During the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Umrah was often performed outside of the Hajj period to avoid large crowds and ensure a more intimate experience with worship.
2. Performing Umrah in Different Seasons
Each season offers a unique Umrah experience based on weather, costs, and crowd levels.
A. Winter (December to February) – Best for Pleasant Weather
✔ Mild temperatures (15°C to 25°C), making walking comfortable.
✔ Ideal for elderly pilgrims and those who cannot bear extreme heat.
✔ Moderate crowds, especially in January and February.
✔ Lower airfares and hotel prices (except during school holidays).
❌ Things to Consider:
✔ December can be crowded due to school vacations.
✔ Rainfall is possible but usually light.
📌 Historical Reference:
During the Ottoman era, many pilgrims from colder regions of Turkey and Central Asia preferred traveling for Umrah in winter due to the milder climate.
B. Spring (March to May) – Best for a Peaceful Experience
✔ Comfortable weather, ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
✔ Less crowded, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet Umrah.
✔ Cheaper flights and accommodations in March and early April.
❌ Things to Consider:
✔ Towards May, temperatures start rising.
📌 Pro Tip:
March and April are perfect for families looking for a calm and rewarding Umrah experience without peak season prices.
C. Summer (June to August) – Best for Budget Travelers
✔ Fewer crowds, meaning more personal space at Masjid al-Haram.
✔ Cheaper flights and hotels (except during Hajj).
✔ Ideal for students and young people who can handle the heat.
❌ Things to Consider:
✔ High temperatures, often reaching 45°C.
✔ Requires extra hydration and sun protection.
📌 Did You Know?
In the past, caravans traveling from India and Persia for Umrah would avoid summer months due to extreme heat and limited water sources.
D. Autumn (September to November) – Best for Comfort and Value
✔ Temperatures start cooling down, making travel easier.
✔ Moderate crowds, especially in October and November.
✔ Affordable prices before the peak December travel season.
❌ Things to Consider:
✔ September can still be hot in Makkah and Madinah.
📌 Best Tip:
If you prefer a peaceful yet cost-effective Umrah experience, October and November are excellent choices.
3. Special Occasions for Umrah
A. Umrah in Ramadan – Most Rewarding Time
✔ Equivalent to the reward of Hajj (but does not replace Hajj).
✔ A spiritually uplifting experience with Taraweeh prayers.
✔ Peak crowd levels, especially in the last 10 nights of Ramadan.
✔ Expensive flights and hotel prices due to high demand.
📌 Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Performing Umrah in Ramadan is equal to Hajj in reward.” (Sahih Bukhari)
B. Umrah After Hajj (Dhul Hijjah & Muharram) – Most Peaceful Time
✔ Masjid al-Haram is less crowded.
✔ Cooler weather makes travel comfortable.
✔ More affordable than peak season months.
📌 Historical Note:
Many scholars, including Imam Malik, recommended performing Umrah after Hajj season to avoid large crowds and ensure a peaceful experience.
4. Choosing the Best Time Based on Your Needs
| Criteria | Best Time for Umrah |
|---|---|
| Less Crowded | Muharram, Safar, Rabi’ al-Awwal |
| Best Weather | December to March |
| Budget-Friendly | Summer (June to August) |
| Most Rewarding | Ramadan |
| Family-Friendly | Spring (March to May), Autumn (September to November) |
| Elderly & Health Concerns | Winter (December to February) |
5. How Al Jazan Overseas (Private) Limited Can Help
At Al Jazan Overseas (Private) Limited, we provide personalized Umrah packages to ensure a stress-free experience.
✔ Hassle-free visa processing
✔ Affordable flight and hotel bookings
✔ Guided Umrah tours for first-time pilgrims
✔ 24/7 assistance for a smooth journey
📞 Ready to plan your Umrah? Contact us today!
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right time for Umrah depends on your preferences, budget, and weather conditions. Whether you seek spiritual rewards in Ramadan, affordable travel in summer, or peaceful worship after Hajj, every season has its benefits.
May Allah (SWT) bless your journey and make your Umrah accepted and rewarding!
📢 Book your Umrah with Al Jazan Overseas (Private) Limited and travel with ease!
