What is the best time to do Umrah?

Millions of Muslims greatly appreciate the Umrah, the holy journey to Mecca. While the mandatory Hajj has set specific dates, this optional worship act can be performed at any time of the year. Although there isn't a set "best" time to do Umrah, there are specific times with particular meaning and benefits. The timing of this spiritual journey can be chosen according to personal tastes and circumstances. In this article, we shall discuss several facets of scheduling and factors to consider when doing Umrah.

The month of Ramadan:

Most pilgrims pick Ramadan to perform Umrah rituals because Allah blesses more and gives rewards than another lunar month. 

 Ibn Abbas said the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said to a lady from Ansar,

"What kept you from performing Hajj with us?"

She said!

We only have two camels, and the father of her son and her son had gone for Hajj on one camel, and he left the other camel so that they could carry water on it. 

He (PBUH) said!

"When Ramadan comes, go for Umrah, for Umrah in Ramadan is equivalent to Hajj."

 

Reference: 

 

• Al-Bukhari (1782) & Al-Muslim (1256)

 

• https://fiqh.islamonline.net/en/umrah-in-ramadan-equals-hajj/

So, this hadith is enough to explain the importance of religious trips in Ramadan for Muslims worldwide.

Besides the Umrah in Ramadan, Muslims can earn many rewards and spend the days and nights at sacred places in Saudi Arabia like Al Haram mosque and Al Nabawi mosque, etc. Along with earning huge rewards, performing Umrah rituals may be challenging because of the large crowds, the expensive cost of flights and hotels, etc. As an expert, you are performing Umrah without experiencing a rush around Kaaba, Sa'i, and Marwa is impossible. But getting Cheap Ramadan Umrah Packages by booking flights and accommodation in advance is possible.

Spring:

If you're interested in performing Umrah during spring, you can find these below benefits during less pilgrimage:

Mild and Pleasant Weather:

The moderate temperature of spring provides an ideal environment to perform Umrah efficiently. During this time, the climate in Mecca is milder than in the summer when it is much hotter. Tawaf, or walking around the Kaaba, and other rites are easier for pilgrims to complete, improving their spiritual experience.

Reduced Crowds:

In contrast to peak times like Ramadan or school breaks, spring comes in the off-peak seasons for Umrah. The smaller group of travellers makes a more tranquil and concentrated pilgrimage experience possible. Without the commotion that accompanies busy periods, pilgrims can perform their rituals with greater ease and devotion.

 

Summer:

It would help to recognise different considerations when planning your Umrah trip during summer. One consideration is mentioned below:

Fewer Crowds Due to Hot Weather: 

During summer, the climate in Mecca and Medina is scorching compared to other months. Due to this sweltering heat, a few people visit Mecca to complete their religious duties. This thing will make your pilgrimage more comfortable and spiritual.

Winter:

Although there may be benefits to doing Umrah in the winter, it's important to remember that everyone has different circumstances and tastes. Pilgrims should consider their requirements, preferences, and health issues when organising a journey to have a happy and spiritually gratifying experience. It would help if you considered the following factors when you plan your Umrah trip in winter:

Mild Weather: 

During winter, The Arabian Peninsula often experiences cooler temperatures. Pilgrims may find the hot and challenging summer heat very difficult during other seasons. During winter, people can more efficiently execute the Umrah rites without experiencing the torture of intense heat. The winter typically lasts from December to February in Saudi Arabia. If you want to avoid sweltering heat during the pilgrimage, winter is suitable for travelling to Mecca.

Crowd Size:

Many travellers travel to Mecca during winter because of its cooler weather. This consideration will make a large crowd in Mecca and Medina. However, this large crowd exists only during December. The schools and other educational institutes are closed during this time. Therefore, many travellers visit Mecca with their families during December. 

During January and February, you will face fewer crowds compared to December. Book January Umrah Packages if you want to enjoy cooler weather and fewer crowds in Mecca and Medina. This consideration will enable you to complete your pilgrimage more efficiently and comfortably.

Spiritual Reflection:

A more introspective and concentrated spiritual experience may be facilitated by the quiet atmosphere of winter. In a peaceful setting, pilgrims could find it simpler to connect with their faith and to pray and reflect. 

Conclusion

Choosing the best time for Umrah is critical for every Muslim worldwide to complete his pilgrimage efficiently. People consider different factors when selecting an ideal time to travel to Mecca and Medina. These factors include weather, crowds, and cost. If you want to avoid scorching heat during the pilgrimage, choose the winter and spring for departure. 

Moreover, it would help if you had off-peak seasons for travelling to Mecca to avoid large crowds and the expensive cost of flights and accommodations. Off-peak seasons are considered March, May, September, and November. So, it would help if you considered all these factors when deciding the right time to travel for Umrah.