Umrah season has resumed after the completion of Haj, with discounted pilgrimage packages being offered due to lower demand. Prices are nearly 25% cheaper than those available during cooler months. The Umrah pilgrimage was temporarily halted from May 23 to June 6 to make way for the Haj season. The reduced prices are attributed to the soaring temperatures in the summer season, which have deterred many pilgrims from undertaking the journey.
Some UAE residents are choosing to postpone their Umrah pilgrimage to September in hopes of a decrease in temperatures. The decision comes in light of the intense heatwave during this year’s Haj, which resulted in 1,301 pilgrims losing their lives. Pilgrimage package rates during cooler months start at Dh 3,200 by air and Dh 1,600 by bus. Currently, the prices for a four-day Umrah package by air start at Dh 2,500 and Dh 1,100 by bus.
Visas for Umrah are now being issued by Saudi authorities, with an additional Dh 200 for a single entry visa. The new Umrah season will coincide with the month of Muharram 1145 Ah (July 19), and electronic visas can be obtained through the Nusuk application. Despite the summer heat, there continues to be a significant number of devoted pilgrims visiting Madinah, with many Haj pilgrims still in the city dedicating their time to prayer and devotion.
Visiting Madinah is not a mandatory rite under Haj or Umrah, but the significance of the Prophet’s city, his mosque, and his sacred tomb attracts many pilgrims. Umrah agents have mentioned that UAE residents can now travel to any airport in Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah, whereas access was previously restricted to only four airports before the Haj season. Some agents have chosen to keep their package rates at Dh 3,200, highlighting the enhanced facilities they offer such as better food and accommodation. Hotels near the holy sites are mostly sold throughout the year, so agents reserve accommodation to provide clients with easy accessibility.
