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UAE residents planning to perform Umrah during the coming months are being advised to book early, as travel operators caution that prices are expected to surge significantly closer to Ramadan, with some air packages potentially reaching Dh8,000.
With demand traditionally peaking during Ramadan, Umrah operators say the increasing influx of pilgrims to Makkah and Madinah is already driving up costs related to transport, accommodation, and overall packages. Those delaying bookings in hopes of better deals may instead face sharply higher prices and limited availability.
According to Shihab Perwad, an Umrah operator at Rehan Al Jazeera Tourism, prices for bus-based Umrah packages are already rising. Currently priced at around Dh1,200, these packages are expected to increase to Dh1,400 within days, and may exceed Dh2,000 as Ramadan approaches. He noted that early bookings consistently offer better value, as seats fill quickly and hotel options become scarce during peak periods.
The increase is even more pronounced for pilgrims travelling by air. Qaisar Mahmood of Asaa Travels and Tourism explained that while air Umrah packages currently start at approximately Dh3,500, prices are projected to rise to Dh5,200 and could reach as high as Dh8,000 during Ramadan, depending on travel dates and hotel proximity to the Haram.
Mahmood added that pricing for the final 10 days of Ramadan remains uncertain but is expected to be considerably higher. Historically, accommodation costs during this period can double or even triple, especially for hotels located within walking distance of the Haram in Makkah, where demand is at its highest.
While flight fares remain relatively stable for now, industry analysis indicates that accommodation is the main driver behind soaring Umrah costs. Operators warn that many pilgrims underestimate hotel expenses, focusing primarily on airfare while overlooking the sharp seasonal hike in lodging rates.
Pilgrims are also urged to be mindful of visa-related deadlines linked to upcoming Hajj preparations. Umrah visa applications will close on March 17, with April 2 being the final entry date into Saudi Arabia. All pilgrims must return by April 18, further tightening the window for travel.
Travel experts recommend booking early, remaining flexible with travel dates, and carefully considering hotel location to manage costs effectively during the Ramadan rush.
