Umrah has become the most spiritual journey for Muslims around the world. It is completely optional like Hajj, but millions of pilgrims flock each year to Makkah to perform Umrah and to seek blessings. However, one time planning possible for performing Umrah could be used to just travel comfortably and save up on an Umrah package, as would cost all across the year may differ based on demand and season of travel. Moreover, the time of securing the Umrah visa may also make one's trip less expensive and hassle-free.
Some months of the year and seasons indeed pose a better opportunity for a budget-friendly Umrah with reasonable accommodation prices and minimum crowds. Such off-seasons include avoiding travel around Ramadan or school holidays to gain a lot from the fares of flight tickets, hotels, and other related services. This guide is to discover, within the very best periods during the year to do Umrah, how one can make the journey possible yet affordable.
Here are some of the best times of the year to perform Umrah and save money.
When to Go
- After Hajj (Muharram, Safar, and Rabi al-Awwal)
After Hajj, Makkah and Madinah see considerable decline in pilgrim numbers. Therefore, the months of Muharram, Safar, and Rabi al-Awwal would be the best period to perform Umrah, as prices drop for travelers. Lower prices are offered by airlines and hotels during this period, as there are fewer crowds. Hence, due to reduced demand among pilgrims, there are good deals available on airfares, hotels, and transport. Also, it is easier to go around these Holy Sites without jostling for space with huge crowds as is the case during peak travel seasons.
- Middle of the Year (January to March)
January through March count as one of the best times for budget travelers. Since these months contain no major Islamic events or school holidays, demand for Umrah remains relatively low. Travel agencies and airlines usually sell discounted Umrah packages during this time. The weather is pleasant as well, making it easier for travelers to perform the pilgrimage. Travel during these months allows for reduced costs and distractions by overcrowding, letting one focus strictly on one's spiritual journey.
- The Months of Winter
Undertaking the Umrah in winter, particularly ahead from November to February, has several advantages. The climate here being much cooler, and that of Makkah and Madinah is pleasant, which allows plenty of time for the pilgrims to perform Tawaf and Sa'i without being drained by the sun's merciless heat. Due to lesser number of people travelling for Umrah, winter is considered to be an off-peak time for Umrah, hence costs for airlines, hotels, and transport are lower.
- April and May
April and May are generally the cheapest months to perform Umrah. Located in between the peak seasons, travel agencies and airlines take the opportunity to offer heavy discounts to attract pilgrims. Other than that, the number of visitors is not high, which means that performing rituals is relatively less complicated with shorter waiting times. Most pilgrims can also get good deals in accommodation and travel packages.
- September and December
Another good opportunity for a lower-cost Umrah adventure is September to December. These months do not coincide with major Islamic events or holiday periods, which leads to fewer pilgrims and lower costs. Travelers choosing these months for Umrah will find excellent airfares, discounted hotel rates, and a calmer atmosphere at important sites!
How to Save on Umrah
Umrah does not have to be a costly journey. Pilgrims can effectively reduce their costs with good planning and wise choices and ensure that their journey is smooth and rewarding. Here are some practical money-saving tips:
- Book Your Tickets Early
One of the best approaches to saving on Umrah is purchasing the Umrah airline tickets early. Fare prices rise as the date of departure approaches, especially in peak season. When pilgrims book ahead of time, they will lock the low fare and will escape being at the mercy of last-minute price rises.
- Plan Your Umrah Trip in Advance Best
Planning properly is the basis for any cheap Umrah excursion. Pilgrims should begin researching the price comparisons of flights, hotels, and transportation modalities few months before their intended date of travel. Early planning allows travelers to really take advantage of promotional discounts given out by travel agencies.
- Go for Cheap Accommodations
The hotels near the Haram are usually costly, especially in peak seasons. In such cases, the pilgrims should instead rely on cheap accommodations that are not far from the Haram. Many affordable hotels provide shuttle services, which is convenient but not heavy on the pocket. The rates could also be lower if hotels are booked ahead of time.
- Travel in a Group
Group travel means that you can save money on accommodation and transportation costs. Group discounts exist for Umrah pilgrims from many hotels and travel agencies. Besides directly reducing costs, sharing accommodation with either family or friends provides companionship and support during the pilgrimage.
- Use Public Transport or Shared Taxis
The cost of transportation in Makkah and Madinah can really pile on. To save money, pilgrims use public transport or shared taxis instead of hiring private cars. Many hotels have complimentary shuttle services to the Haram, thus facilitating movement without an extra charge.
- Book Umrah Packages Wise
Numerous travel agencies operate Umrah packages that include flight, accommodation, and transportation. Comparing various packages to select the best value for your money is important. In most cases, choosing economy packages rather than luxury will favorably impact the expenditure while ensuring one travels comfortably.
- Go in Low Seasons
Performing Umrah during high seasons, such as Ramadan and school holidays, can fetch significantly higher prices. Flights, hotels, and other services are in peak demand, and thus, prices shoot up. By traveling in low-seasons, pilgrims would therefore save a significant amount and enjoy a nice relaxed pilgrimage.
- Be Ready for Side Expenses
Petty expenses tend to accumulate with time during an Umrah. Therefore, it is wise to set aside a budget and adhere to it. Buying food from local joints instead of expensive hotel buffets, refraining from luxury shopping, and being careful about extra charges on designated transportation can help save money.
Conclusion
Planning the timing of an Umrah will allow pilgrims to save money and have an unbroken spiritual experience. Off-peak, for instance, the months immediately succeeding Hajj and non-holiday periods offer economically feasible packages for Umrah and easier access to an Umrah visa. On the road, pilgrims can minimize travel costs for a less crowded experience by booking early and avoiding the peak travel times.
Umrah can be a very pleasant and part economical journey if independent choice were exercised on timing. Every possible option affordable could then be weighed along with the seasonal variations of prices so that Umrah could be performed without any difficulty and with pure faith.
