With Ramadan approaching, travel operators across the UAE are issuing urgent advisories for prospective Umrah pilgrims to secure their packages immediately or face substantial price increases. Industry experts project that costs could escalate dramatically—potentially reaching AED 8,000 for premium air-inclusive packages—as demand intensifies during the holy month.
The annual pilgrimage season follows predictable patterns, with millions of Muslims worldwide journeying to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah during Ramadan. This concentrated demand creates significant pressure on transportation and accommodation infrastructure, directly impacting pricing structures. Shihab Perwad of Rehan al Jazeera Tourism confirmed that prices are already trending upward, with bus packages currently available at approximately AED 1,200 expected to exceed AED 2,000 as Ramadan nears.
Air travel packages demonstrate even more pronounced inflation. Qaisar Mahmood from Asaa Travels and Tourism indicated that while current air packages begin at AED 3,500, they are projected to start from AED 5,200 during Ramadan, with premium options potentially reaching AED 8,000 depending on travel dates and hotel specifications. The most significant cost driver appears to be accommodation, particularly hotels within walking distance of the Haram in Makkah, where prices may triple during the final ten days of Ramadan.
Industry analysis reveals that while flight prices remain relatively stable according to booking platforms, the accommodation sector experiences extraordinary demand-based pricing. Many pilgrims mistakenly focus exclusively on airfare while underestimating the substantial hotel cost increases during peak periods.
Additional considerations include strict visa deadlines connected to Hajj preparations. Umrah visa applications will cease on March 17, with April 2 marking the final entry date into Saudi Arabia. All pilgrims must depart from Makkah or Madinah by April 18 as authorities commence Hajj preparations, creating compressed timelines that further complicate travel planning.
Travel operators unanimously recommend early booking, flexible travel dates, and careful consideration of hotel proximity to manage expenses effectively during this high-demand period.