With less than two months left until Ramadan, there is a notable increase in demand for Umrah pilgrimage during the Islamic holy month. Travel operators are experiencing a surge in inquiries, with a 200 per cent rise in the number of UAE residents seeking to undertake the pilgrimage compared to other months.
Umrah operators are optimistic about a higher number of residents embarking on the pilgrimage, particularly as Ramadan coincides with the winter season. The cooler weather is expected to attract more faithful individuals to undertake their spiritual journey during this opportune time.
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Qaiser Mahmood from ASAA Tourism in Abu Hail reported, “We receive over a hundred calls daily from residents seeking to fulfill their religious duties during the holy month.” Usually, Umrah packages start at Dh3,000, but costs surge by nearly 25 per cent during the first 20 days of Ramadan, starting at Dh3,700. The package cost may increase further if pilgrims opt for a single room, depending on the hotel and its location.
During the first 20 days of Ramadan, hotels in the holy cities of Makkah and Madina offer five nights of accommodation. However, during the last ten days, hotels provide accommodation for the full duration, as shorter stays are mostly unavailable. As the month progresses, particularly during the last ten days, package costs can increase by nearly 100 per cent. Aggregators recommend early booking to save on accommodation costs.
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“The package cost can reach up to Dh40,000 for the last ten days of Ramadan. Pilgrims can save significantly if they book in advance,” Mahmood advised. The package typically includes a visa, flight tickets, and accommodation.
Umrah by bus is gaining popularity in the UAE, with packages starting at Dh2,500. Imran Mohammed from Al Tarwiyah Haj and Umrah service in Sharjah noted that people willing to take Umrah during the holy month are often bachelors and businessmen. “A bus journey is convenient for them, while families prefer the visit during school breaks,” he said.
Mohammed added that Umrah package costs primarily depend on accommodation, which rises during Ramadan. “The primary motivation for choosing Umrah during Ramadan is the abundance of spiritual rewards associated with this sacred month.” As the anticipation for Ramadan grows, residents are preparing to undertake their spiritual journey, seeking blessings and fulfillment during this auspicious time.
