When is the best time for Umrah?
When you go determines the crowds, the price and the strain on your body. Below is an honest comparison per period.
Last updated: 2026-09-09
Short answer
November to March is the most comfortable: moderate temperatures and less heat-related health risk. Ramadan is spiritually the most sought after but also the busiest and most expensive. Summer is cheap, but Mecca can rise well above forty degrees.
Planning your vaccination
- Meningococcal ACWY, required for Saudi Arabia
- International vaccination certificate straight away
- Evening and weekend appointments, every day 10:00 to 22:00
Per period
- November to March: pleasant temperatures, average crowds, a good choice for older travellers
- Ramadan: very crowded and expensive, long waits, high strain when fasting in the heat
- April and May: warmer, quieter after Ramadan, prices drop
- June to September: cheapest, but extreme heat; not advisable with heart or lung conditions
- Around Dhul Hijjah restrictions apply because of Hajj
Information about registration and packages is based on the official Nusuk Hajj platform of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Registration and payment take place there only; DKliniek provides the medical preparation.
Official sources
- hajj.nusuk.sa — Official registration and packages
- haj.gov.sa — Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah
- visa.mofa.gov.sa — Saudi visa information
- lcr.nl — Dutch national travel health centre
- who.int — World Health Organization
Arrange your vaccinations in time
Meningococcal ACWY is required for entry to Saudi Arabia and must be given at least ten days before arrival. We also advise you on DTP, hepatitis A and your certificate.
- Meningococcal ACWY, required for Saudi Arabia
- International vaccination certificate straight away
- Evening and weekend appointments, every day 10:00 to 22:00
- Groups and families vaccinated in one session
Frequently asked questions
Continue reading
How much does Umrah cost?
What does Umrah cost from the Netherlands? An indication of package prices, what is and is not included and the costs people often forget.
Preparing for Umrah: health and vaccinations
Which vaccinations are required and recommended for Umrah, when to get them and how to stay healthy in Mecca and Medina.
How long does Umrah take?
How much time do the Umrah rites themselves take and how long does an average Umrah trip from the Netherlands last?