Today's Edition
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)
Travel agents in the UAE are reporting an increase in demand for Umrah bookings in Ramadan 2025, with many travellers rushing to secure their spots for the spiritual pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.
Umrah, a non-obligatory pilgrimage, includes visits to the holy cities of Mecca and Madinah, where Muslims perform religious rites such as Tawaf (circling the Ka'aba) and prayers at significant Islamic historical sites.
Though Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, it is especially popular during Ramadan, making it a peak period for bookings.
Speaking with Aletihad, Hadeel Salem, a booking agent at a travel agency in Abu Dhabi, noted that Umrah packages vary widely based on individual customer needs.
"Some packages are inclusive of everything, while others are tailored to customer needs and preferences," she explained.
Prices for these packages range from Dh2,200 to Dh4,500, depending on factors such as the duration of stay, hotel choice and whether guided tours of Islamic historical sites are included.
Salem pointed out that package prices have risen by 10% to 15% compared to last year, primarily due to increases in hotel and flight prices.
Waleed Ahmad, another tour booking agent in Abu Dhabi, told Aletihad: "Demand is strong, and many people are making bookings and inquiries. The majority of our customers are booking as part of groups, rather than as individuals or families."
He also noted that travel dates and hotel selection are the primary factors influencing price differences between bookings.
For example, during the last 10 days of Ramadan, package prices can range from Dh4,000 to Dh15,000. On other days, a package for a single traveler staying in a three-star hotel may cost between Dh2,500 and Dh4,000, he explained.
According to Skyscanner.ae, direct flights from Abu Dhabi to Jeddah during the last 10 days of Ramadan are priced between Dh1,700 and Dh4,128. For flights between March 10 and 20, prices average around Dh1,500.
Ibrahim Al Zarouni, a senior travel consultant, noted that early bookings help travelers save on costs, as prices tend to rise closer to Ramadan's peak.
"Demand is looking great. Many of our customers have booked well in advance because they want to avoid the rush and rising prices in Ramadan," he told Aletihad.
Those seeking budget-friendly options can book flights with one or two stops or fly to Riyadh and then take a bus to Jeddah, according to Al Zarouni.
He added that customers generally prioritise comfort and convenience for their pilgrimage experience.
"That's why the majority opt for all-inclusive packages with visas, accommodation, flights and transportation. That way they can relax and focus on the spiritual experience without worrying about logistic aspects and whatnot," he said.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) offers advanced digital services through its website and mobile app, allowing travelers to complete transactions and access immediate emergency assistance while abroad.
The Ministry has also improved services for senior citizens and people of determination, enabling family members to register them for the Twajudi service via the website, app or WhatsApp.
For 24/7 support, travelers can call the Ministry's UAE citizen emergency number at 0097180024.
The health guidelines issued on the official website of the Emirates Health Services advise pilgrims to get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel.
Vaccinations include the meningococcal vaccine, the seasonal influenza vaccine, and the pneumococcal vaccine for those aged 65 and over, or those with chronic illnesses. A COVID-19 vaccine is also recommended, though not mandatory.
