The Best Time to Perform Umrah in 2025–2026
A Complete Guide by Month (Hajj to Hajj)
October 11, 2025
After the completion of Hajj, a new Umrah season begins—a time when millions of Muslims flock to Makkah to perform the minor pilgrimage. Although Umrah is permissible at any time of the year, travel conditions vary significantly from month to month, affecting the weather, prices, crowd levels at the Holy Sites, and the overall atmosphere of worship. To make your journey as blessed and tranquil as possible, it is essential to choose the right time.
Why Choosing the Right Time Matters
Umrah requires spiritual focus and physical stamina. Choosing the right month helps avoid unnecessary difficulties, allowing you to dedicate more time to worship.
- Comfort in the Haram: fewer queues, more time for prayer.
- Budget: hotel and flight prices change seasonally.
- Weather: hot months make movement difficult, especially for the elderly.
- Spiritual Reward: certain months are marked by special significance.
- Availability: during peak periods, demand skyrockets, and rooms sell out early.
Month-by-Month Guide to the Umrah Season 2025 - 2026
The period covers the time from the end of Hajj 2025 to the beginning of Hajj 2026
| Islamic Month | Approximate Dates (Gregorian 2025 - 2026) | Crowd Level | Weather in Makkah | Hotel Prices | Best For | Spiritual Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dhul Hijjah (Post-Hajj) | August 2025 | Restricted | ~+41°C | High | — | Hajj period, Umrah is practically not performed |
| Muharram | September 2025 | Low | ~+38°C (cooling) | Moderate | Newcomers, families, the elderly | Start of the Umrah season, calm atmosphere |
| Safar | October 2025 | Low - Medium | ~+36°C | Moderate | Individual pilgrims | Quiet month for extended stays |
| Rabi al-Awwal | October - November 2025 | Medium | ~+34°C | Moderate | Groups, family trips | Month of the Prophet's ﷺ birth |
| Rabi al-Thani | November 2025 | Low - Medium | ~+32°C | Moderate | Families, elderly, women | One of the most comfortable months |
| Jumada al-Ula | December (1st half) 2025 | Medium | ~+30°C | Moderate | Those who want mild weather | Good balance of climate and prices |
| Jumada al-Thani | December (2nd half) 2025 - January 2026 | High | ~+28°C | High | Holidaymakers, tourist groups | Peak of winter holidays, high demand |
| Rajab | February 2026 | High | ~+29°C | High | Those seeking spiritual intensification | Blessed month, noticeable increase in pilgrims |
| Sha'ban | March 2026 | Very High | ~+31°C | Very High | Those ready for a busy schedule | Preparation for Ramadan, high activity |
| Ramadan | March - April 2026 | Maximum Peak | ~+33°C | Highest | All categories of pilgrims | The reward of Umrah equals Hajj |
| Shawwal | April - May 2026 | Medium | ~+36°C | Moderate | Families and working individuals | Downturn after the peak loads of Ramadan |
| Dhul Qa'dah | May - June 2026 | Medium - High | ~+39°C | Moderate | Individual pilgrims | Approaching Hajj, crowds increase |
| Dhul Hijjah (Pre-Hajj) | June 2026 | High | ~+41°C | High | Hajj groups | Umrah restrictions, season closing |
Note on Dates
Hijri dates depend on lunar observation and may shift by 1 - 2 days. Before booking, check the calendar (Umm al-Qura) and the actual start dates of the months.
How to Use the Table
- Need a tranquil Umrah without crowds — choose months with Low/Medium crowd levels (Muharram, Safar, Rabi al-Thani).
- Aiming for the maximum spiritual reward — plan for Rajab, Sha'ban, and especially Ramadan (note the high prices and crowds).
- Budget is limited — avoid late December and January, book in Muharram or Safar.
- raveling with the elderly or children — moderate months with mild weather are preferable (November, February).
Practical Tips
- Book well in advance for high-demand periods (late December - January, Rajab - Ramadan).
- Plan your budget: hotel and flight prices increase manifold during peak months.
- Monitor the weather and schedule your time in the Haram to avoid the midday heat.
- Check the rules and schedule for transportation from your hotel to the Haram (shuttles, walking distance).
Conclusion
Choosing the time for Umrah is key to a peaceful, conscious, and blessed journey. The 2025 - 2026 season offers various scenarios: from the quiet and affordable months of autumn to the spiritual peak of Ramadan and the high crowds of winter holidays. Select the period that matches your goals and capabilities, and dedicate yourself to the main purpose—worship and inner renewal in Holy Makkah.
