The best times to perform Umrah in 2026 from the UK are during the off-peak seasons, particularly the Islamic months of Safar, Rajab, and Sha’ban (before Ramadan), and the winter months from November to February and April, when the weather is cooler and crowds are lighter.
Umrah is not a one-size-fits-all journey. And choosing the right time to go is more than just convenience; it’s the difference between peaceful prayer and physical exhaustion.
For UK Muslims juggling school calendars, work holidays, and health considerations, timing is everything. Especially in 2026, when the Islamic and Gregorian calendars meet at key pressure points, early Ramadan, mid-year Hajj, and extended UK school breaks.
So if you’re trying to decide when to book Umrah in 2026 from the UK, this guide lays out every key detail, weather, cost, crowd levels, and package timing, to help you choose the right month with confidence.
Planning for 2026: What’s Different This Year?
The Islamic and Gregorian calendars align in a way that reshapes 2026 Umrah travel:
- Ramadan falls early, expected mid-February to mid-March
- Eid al-Fitr lands late March, continuing peak pricing
- Hajj is in late May or early June, limiting Umrah access from June to July
- School holidays in the UK (March, July–August, October) will increase demand during those months
- Temperatures start climbing by April, hitting 40°C+ by early summer
What does that mean for you? Traveling before Ramadan, or waiting until after Hajj, gives you more options and better value.
Best Months for Comfort: November to February
If your priority is physical ease, whether you’re walking with elders, travelling with children, or just want to avoid heat fatigue, the winter months are your window.
| Month | Temperature (°C) | Travel Experience |
| November | 24–30 | Calm, ideal weather, fewer groups |
| December | 22–28 | Cooler, growing crowds |
| January | 20–26 | Quietest month, especially for solo travellers |
| February | 22–28 | Excellent, early Ramadan entry |
December and January are considered the coldest months for Umrah, with evenings dropping to 18°C (64°F), ideal for gentle movement between rituals.
For many UK-based families, February half-term is a sweet spot for affordability, ease, and school-friendly dates.
Off-Peak Islamic Months: Affordable and Underappreciated
If you’re looking for the cheapest time to perform Umrah in 2026, skip the school holidays and head for one of the lesser-travelled Islamic months.
Best Off-Peak Options:
- Muharram (July): Very hot, but post-Hajj and low-cost
- Safar (August–September): Lower demand, group deals available
- Rajab (October–November): Cooler weather starts to return
- Sha’ban (December–January): Ramadan is near, but rates are still fair
During these months, you’ll benefit from:
- Discounted Umrah packages
- Better hotel locations at lower rates
- Shorter lines for rituals and prayers
- More availability for direct flights from UK airports
It’s a smart move, especially if your dates are flexible.
Ramadan 2026: Rewarding but Demanding
There’s no question that Ramadan Umrah is spiritually powerful. But it’s also the busiest, priciest, and most physically intense time to go.
What to expect:
- Hotel and flight costs may double during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr
- You’ll need to book 6–8 months early to get Haram-area accommodation
- Taraweeh and Iftar in the Haram draw huge crowds
- Expect late nights and long walks, especially in the final 10 nights
For younger travellers or those returning to Makkah, Ramadan may feel worth the effort. But for first-timers or those seeking more personal space, a pre-Ramadan departure in early February is often a better choice.
Summer Umrah: Cheaper, But Not Easier
After Hajj concludes (late June), Umrah reopens for late July to August. You’ll see:
- Lower package prices
- Easier visa access
- Smaller group sizes
But you’ll also see this on the thermometer: 43–46°C.
Unless you’re in good health, have prior experience, and can stay near the Haram, this can be a difficult time. For families and elderly pilgrims, heat-related stress can affect the experience more than price ever will.
Best Months for Families and Group Travel
If you’re booking Umrah 2026 with your family or joining a group for the first time, aim for:
- March 2026: Easter holidays align nicely with early Ramadan
- October 2026: Autumn half-term, decent weather, fewer crowds
- November 2026: Calm, cooler, ideal for group travel packages
At Alzowar Travel, our 2026 Umrah groups include:
- UK-based tour guides
- Family-friendly hotels near Haram
- Visa & flight support
- Seminars and preparation materials for first-timers
Practical Tips for Booking Umrah in 2026
To get the most from your trip, financially and spiritually, keep these in mind:
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Book in Advance
3–6 months ahead is the standard. For Ramadan, March, or December, book at least 8–9 months early.
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Be Flexible With Travel Days
Flying mid-week (Tues–Thurs) can save £100–£200 on some routes. Friday–Sunday are the busiest days from UK airports.
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Stay Within Walking Distance
The closer your hotel is to the Haram, the more energy you’ll save, especially in hotter months.
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Use ATOL-Protected Travel Providers
Alzowar Travel is ATOL-registered, which means your booking is financially secure and protected against unexpected issues.
The Best Month Is the One That Matches Your Intention!
There’s no universal answer. The best time for Umrah in 2026 is when the path is open to you, both physically and spiritually, as well as financially.
- For some, that’s the early quiet of February.
- For others, it’s the power of Ramadan.
- And for many, it’s the calm of November, where intention meets ease.
At Alzowar Travel, we don’t just offer packages. We offer time, time to reflect, plan, and travel well. With ATOL protection, direct UK flights, and experienced support teams, your 2026 Umrah is in capable hands. Explore our 2026 Umrah Packages from the UK for individuals, families, and guided groups, tailored to your timeline.
