Umrah 2026: Everything You Need To Know
Plan your DIY Umrah journey for 2026 with Halalbooking. Get clear dates, visa info, vaccination guidelines, and easy booking steps to arrange your trip.
Umrah Seasonal Calendar 2026
If you're starting to plan your Umrah 2026 trip, one of the first things to think about is when you want to go. Umrah can be performed almost any time of year, except for a brief period during the Hajj season when travel is paused. Many travellers prefer the cooler months, like January or February, while others are drawn to the spiritual energy of Umrah during Ramadan in 2026. Your ideal travel window will depend on your personal schedule, your goals for the trip, and whether you're travelling solo or with family.
Umrah and Hajj Dates: Which Months is Umrah Closed in 2026
The Islamic calendar is lunar, which means Umrah 2026 dates shift slightly each year. Hajj falls in May 2026, and travel for Umrah (for foreigners) is paused in the weeks leading up to it. If you're wondering when does Umrah close for Hajj 2026, the last date for Umrah 2026 falls in early April. After the pilgrimage ends, Umrah likely resumes around mid June (typically 3 weeks after Hajj), once visa services restart. While accommodation doesn’t officially close during this period, the suspension of visas often leads to reduced hotel availability, so we recommend booking early, especially if you're looking for hotels in Makkah. You can also browse our full selection of Umrah hotels featuring prayer-friendly facilities, family options, and convenient locations near the Haram.
Umrah Visa Requirements 2026
To perform Umrah, you’ll need a valid visa issued by Saudi authorities. This can usually be arranged through a licensed travel agent or applied for online via the official e-visa portal. Visa policies have become much more flexible for DIY pilgrims. Currently, 63 nationalities are eligible for a multiple-entry e-Visa which is valid for 12 months and allows for a stay of up to 90 days. This tourist visa can be used to perform Umrah. Additionally, UK, US, and Schengen visa holders may be eligible for a visa on arrival. We recommend checking the official Nusuk or Visit Saudi platforms for the latest eligibility update. The exact validity period should be confirmed closer to application time due to ongoing policy updates. Most travellers complete the process within a few days, but it's best to apply at least two weeks before your departure to avoid delays. For more tips on when to travel, understanding visa requirements, and preparing for your journey, take a look at our guide to DIY Umrah.
Umrah Vaccination Requirements 2026
All travellers must present proof of a meningococcal (ACYW-135) vaccination administered at least 10 days before departure and this vaccine is mandatory for all pilgrims aged 1 and above. Additional vaccines may be required depending on your country of origin such as polio or yellow fever based on current global health risks. COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccinations are not mandatory but are strongly recommended, especially for vulnerable groups. Requirements are set by Saudi health authorities and may change, so we advise checking with your local travel clinic, embassy, or the Saudi Ministry of Health for the most up-to-date Umrah vaccine requirements in 2026, before making your travel arrangements.
Travelling Between Makkah and Madinah: The High-Speed Train
For DIY travellers in 2026, navigating between the Holy Cities has never been easier. We recommend using the Haramain High Speed Railway, which links Makkah and Madinah in just 2.5 hours. Reaching speeds of 300 km/h, it is widely considered the safest, fastest, and most comfortable way to travel, particularly if you are travelling with children or the elderly. If you are flying into Jeddah (King Abdulaziz International Airport), you can take the train directly from the airport station to Makkah in under an hour. Alternatively, taxis and apps like Uber are readily available for transfers between cities and airports.
Booking and Planning for Umrah in 2026
Whether you're booking for early spring or planning ahead for winter, Umrah 2026 offers plenty of flexibility for families, couples, and solo travellers. From seasonal highlights to key religious dates, each period has its own benefits depending on your preferences and schedule. Whether you’re hoping to visit during Ramadan, travel outside school holidays, or avoid peak temperatures, planning ahead can help you secure the best deals and locations for your trip.
Planning Umrah for Ramadan 2026
If you're planning to carry out Umrah during Ramadan in 2026, note that it is expected to take place from mid-February to mid-March. It’s one of the most spiritually rewarding times to go, but also one of the busiest. If you're planning your journey during this sacred month, book your flights and accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment. For many travellers, staying close to the Haram deepens the Ramadan experience, and being near a prayer hall allows you to fully immerse yourself in daily worship, attend Tarawih with ease, and remain spiritually connected throughout this sacred period. To ensure maximum comfort during this busy period, use our specific filters to find hotels with Haram-connected prayer halls or check if the hotel offers a free shuttle service if it is not within walking distance.
Travel Tips for Umrah during Easter & Spring 2026
Planning Umrah during the Easter holidays 2026 is a great choice for families, with school holidays making it easier to travel together. However, booking Umrah in April 2026 also means higher demand, often leading to increased prices across flights and accommodation, particularly for centrally located hotels, which is why we recommend securing Madinah and Makkah hotels near Al Haram as early as possible to get the best rates. Staying close to the Haram not only simplifies the trip for elderly relatives or children but also brings you closer to the heart of the spiritual experience.
Umrah in January, February and March
Many travellers choose to perform Umrah in the early months of the year, with Umrah in February 2026 being one of the most popular times thanks to its cooler weather and comfortable climate. January also offers similar conditions, making both months ideal for those seeking a calmer atmosphere and easier walking distances, especially for elderly pilgrims. If you are visiting Madinah during these cooler months, check which direction your room faces; south-facing rooms are generally closer to the Ladies' section of Masjid an-Nabawi, reducing walking time for women and the elderly. February will lead into Ramadan in 2026, so demand may begin to rise toward the end of the month as well as March. If you’re looking to plan your trip around mild weather and a peaceful pace, this is one of the best times to go. For added comfort and convenience, explore our hotels in Saudi Arabia designed to support your spiritual journey.
Umrah in July, August and September 2026
Performing Umrah in the summer months means travelling just after Hajj, when crowds tend to be smaller and there’s often more flexibility in hotel and flight bookings. While the heat can be intense, especially for those unaccustomed to such temperatures, staying hydrated and pacing your activities can help make the experience more manageable. Many travellers take this opportunity to extend their trip with a few restful days by the coast – explore our selection of hotels in Jeddah, offering stunning Red Sea views and a chance to unwind while watching breathtaking sunsets.
Booking Umrah in October, November and December 2026
The final months of the year are a quieter period for Umrah, with Umrah in November 2026 especially popular due to its milder weather and calmer atmosphere. Travelling during autumn also offers a greater chance of securing a hotel with Kaaba views at a more accessible price, since demand is typically lower than during peak months like Ramadan. It’s an ideal time to enjoy a more peaceful stay while still taking in the most breathtaking views and getting the most out of your Umrah experience, whether you’re travelling solo, with a partner, or as a family seeking a quieter spiritual journey.
