When Is the Best Time to Perform Umrah? A Month-by-Month Guide

Islamic Calendar Overview

The Islamic (Hijri) calendar is lunar-based, consisting of 12 months. Key months related to Umrah include:

• Muharram (1st month): Marks the beginning of the Islamic year.

• Safar (2nd month): Follows Muharram.

• Rabi' al-Awwal & Rabi' al-Thani (3rd & 4th months): Middle months with moderate activity.

• Jumada al-Awwal & Jumada al-Thani (5th & 6th months): Lead up to the sacred months.

• Rajab (7th month): A sacred month with increased pilgrim activity.

• Sha'ban (8th month): Precedes Ramadan; moderate crowds.

• Ramadan (9th month): The holy month of fasting; peak Umrah season.

• Shawwal (10th month): Follows Ramadan; beginning of Hajj preparations.

• Dhu al-Qi'dah (11th month): A sacred month; Hajj season intensifies.

• Dhu al-Hijjah (12th month): Hajj month; Umrah visas are typically suspended.

Month-by-Month Guide

Muharram & Safar (1st & 2nd Months)

• Pros:

  • Lower crowd levels post-Hajj.

  • Pleasant weather conditions.

  • More affordable travel and accommodation options.

• Considerations:

  • Ideal for those seeking a quieter pilgrimage experience.

Rabi' al-Awwal & Rabi' al-Thani (3rd & 4th Months)

• Pros:

  • Moderate temperatures.

  • Manageable crowd sizes.

• Considerations:

  • Suitable for families and elderly pilgrims.

Jumada al-Awwal & Jumada al-Thani (5th & 6th Months)

• Pros:

  • Comfortable weather conditions.

  • Moderate pilgrim activity.

• Considerations:

  • Good time for those preferring a balanced experience.

Rajab (7th Month)

• Pros:

  • Sacred month with increased spiritual significance.

  • Higher availability of Umrah packages.

• Considerations:

  • Slightly increased crowd levels.

Sha'ban (8th Month)

• Pros:

  • Opportunity to perform Umrah before Ramadan.

  • Moderate crowd sizes.

• Considerations:

  • Ideal for those aiming to avoid Ramadan crowds.

Ramadan (9th Month)

• Pros:

  • Highly rewarding; Umrah during Ramadan holds great spiritual merit.

  • Unique atmosphere with nightly Taraweeh prayers.

• Considerations:

  • Extremely crowded, especially during the last ten nights.

  • Higher costs for travel and accommodation.

Shawwal (10th Month)

• Pros:

  • Post-Ramadan period with reduced crowds.

  • More affordable options compared to Ramadan.

• Considerations:

  • A good time for those seeking a less hectic experience.

Dhu al-Qi'dah (11th Month)

• Pros:

  • Sacred month with spiritual significance.

  • Moderate pilgrim activity.

• Considerations:

  • Approaching Hajj season; some increase in crowds.

Dhu al-Hijjah (12th Month)

• Pros:

  • Hajj season; significant religious events.

• Considerations:

  • Umrah visas are typically suspended during Hajj.

  • Not suitable for Umrah pilgrims.

Seasonal Considerations

• Winter (December to February):

  • Cooler temperatures.

  • Comfortable for outdoor rituals.

  • Higher demand due to school holidays.

• Spring (March to May):

  • Moderate weather conditions.

  • Ideal for families and elderly pilgrims.

• Summer (June to August):

  • High temperatures; can exceed 45°C (113°F).

  • Lower crowd levels.

  • More affordable travel options.

• Autumn (September to November):

  • Gradual decrease in temperatures.

  • Moderate crowd sizes.

  • Suitable for those seeking a balanced experience.

Tips for Planning Your Umrah

• Book Early: Secure your travel and accommodation well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

• Stay Hydrated: Carry a water bottle and drink regularly, particularly during warmer months.

• Dress Appropriately: Wear light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable.

• Plan Rituals Wisely: Perform Tawaf and Sa'i during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.

• Consult a Reliable Agency: Book with Tarteel Travel to ensure a smooth journey.

May Allah ﷻ accept your intentions and grant you a blessed and fulfilling Umrah.