Introduction
Umrah is a significant way of worshipping among Muslims. Hajj is a journey to Makkah to solicit Allah Almighty’s barakah and seek forgiveness. Umrah is also performed similarly to Hajj, although it is not bound to the specified timings of the Islamic lunar calendar year.
Timing to undertake Umrah is vital. Some of the factors one may experience include weather, crowds, and transport costs. Some months are also more comfortable and convenient than others. Read this blog to know the right time during the year to perform Umrah.
What is Umrah?
Umrah is also referred to as the “lesser pilgrimage.” It comprises performing a set of practices in the holy land of Makkah. The majority of people prefer to choose the month of Ramadan for this Holy journey because it’s holy and full of virtues. Having Ramadan Umrah packages from any good agency, there is much more to explore which is done below. Umrah rituals include:
- Ihram: By dressing in white clothes, which are equal to suggest purity at the ceremonies.
- Tawaf: To make seven rounds around the Kaaba.
- Sa’i: Going seven times from Safa to Marwah.
- Halq or Taqsir: Cutting or washing off hair as an act of humility.
Umrah touching is a noble duty and a very special ritual for every Muslim. It brings Muslims closer to Allah and replenishes their faith.
Best Months for Umrah
Ramadan – The Month of Blessings
Ramadan is one of the highly religious months in the Islamic calendar Year. It is a season of prayer, fasting, and asking for favor. Doing Umrah in Ramadan gives one many merits. It is written that the Messenger of Allah, may peace be upon him, narrated that performing Umrah in Ramadan equals being in a state of Hajj.
Why choose Ramadan?
- The spirituality is incomparable.
- Ramadan beauty fills Makkah and Madinah.
- More so, night prayers like Taraweeh are also part of the ado.
Challenges during Ramadan
- This is the best time of the year, and business is at its peak.
- Travelling through hotels or flying is more costly for some reasons.
- The people-standing can make it hard to make your way through several times.
- If one can endure the physical stress and pressure during Ramadhan, it is one of the best months for Umrah.
Rabi’ Al-Awwal and Rabi’ Al-Thani – Peaceful Post-Hajj Period
These months come immediately after the Hajj season, which has just concluded. The millions of people who filled Makkah are no longer there.
Why choose these months?
- The people are smaller, and the environment is not as active as usual, so expect a peaceful night.
- Most importantly, expenses on food shelter, and transportation are cheaper.
- Individuals start getting used to the fact that it is time to perform some rituals.
- This is a perfect time for anyone wishing for a quiet and undisturbed Umrah experience.
Muharram and Safar – Early Islamic Year
These months denote the beginning of the Islamic calendar of the Islamic religion. This is also one of the best months for many pilgrims to undertake their Umrah pilgrimage.
Why choose these Months?
- The crowd is not too massive so there is freewheeling in performing rituals.
- The weather is quite lovely, especially for those from the cooler region.
- Ideally suited for families and older people.
- This period is good for pilgrims who do not wish to travel when many other people are on the move.
Shawwal and Dhu al-Qi’dah – Pre-Hajj Months
These months precede the holy Hajj. Some Muslims prefer to perform Umrah during this season in preparation for the Hajj.
Why choose these months?
- The crowds are manageable.
- The weather is good, not too hot or very cold during this time of the year.
- It is relatively cheap to travel and get lodged as compared to the time of Ramadan or the hajj.
- This is a good time for the ones who like it relatively moderate.
Winter Months – December to February
Winter is one of the most suitable seasons for performing Umrah. The conditions in Makkah are familiar, with a temperate climate being the most favorable. That’s why the majority of travellers suggest winter for this ritual by getting affordable Umrah packages from any good travel agency to enjoy the whole journey without the sun’s heat.
Why choose winter?
- It is convenient for most of the rituals to be done without heat.
- Other pilgrims from the colder climates see it to be much more tolerable.
- Competition is relatively low compared to the period between Ramadan and school break.
- People, especially parents with children under seven and older people, are advised to perform their pilgrimage during winter.
Things to Look at When Selecting a Month for Umrah
Weather Conditions
Makkah is in a desert region. Annual average temperature: Summers are hot and could rise to over 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit). Winter is comparatively colder between December and February, with an average of about 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit).
If you dislike heat, don’t plan to travel from June to August, as it is the hottest season. That is why people feel it is best to make Umrah in the winter or spring months since the people performing the pilgrimage are not so crowded.
Crowd Levels
It is a fact that crowds can either enhance or compromise your experience.
Budget and Costs
Transportation and accommodations are cheaper or more expensive, depending on the time of year. They are highest during the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan and the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, the Hajj. However, there is always an option for off-peak season, which includes winter or the months following the Hajj.
They said everyone should make arrangements according to their financial situation. Early bookings will undoubtedly also enable you to reduce your trip expenses.
Personal and Family Schedules
Depending on your other engagements and responsibilities, select a time convenient for you or your employing organization. Families might find school holidays ideal for vacations, but they are also the worst-rated period for travellers.
Advantages of Doing Umrah During the Low Season
- More Focus: A place where you can perform rituals without lots of interference.
- Lower Costs: Cheap holiday and lodging deals.
- Comfort: Better visits to sites mean less time waiting in queues.
Earlier Preparation for your Umrah Trip
- Plan Ahead: Choose the time that works best for you. Travelling would also be cheaper if you bought airline tickets and accommodation in advance.
- Understand the Rituals: Read about the stages in Umrah and their meaning. This will make your journey all the more fulfilling.
- Pack Wisely: First-timers should fly light but should not let go of some necessary items such as comfortable shoes, prayer mats, and Ihram.
- Stay Hydrated: Remember to keep yourself hydrated throughout your journey, no matter what time of the year.
Conclusion
Everyone who performs Umrah will agree that the trip is really life-transforming. In Makkah and Madinah, there is a blessing and assurance of peace with every passing second. However, Umrah can be done any time of the year, but there are best seasons depending on weather, traffic, and even prices.
However, both are ideal seasons for Umrah. Different things happen during each season or time of the year. Intend well, and may Allah accept you and ease your pilgrimage. With the right mindset at the beginning, success and happiness are right there waiting for you in front.
