Pilgrimage Β· 2026 Guide
Umrah 2026 β
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Rituals
The 5 steps of Umrah
Ihram
The state of ritual purity. Men wear the white garment at the Miqat. Make the intention and the talbiyah: "Labbayk Allahumma Umratan".
Tawaf
Seven circuits around the Kaaba counterclockwise, starting from the Hajar al-Aswad (Black Stone).
The Prayer
After the Tawaf, pray 2 rak'ah behind the Maqam Ibrahim, then drink Zamzam water.
The Sa'i
Seven trips between the hills of Safa and Marwa, recalling Hajar searching for water for her son Ismail.
Taqsir / Halq
Trimming or shaving the hair, marking the exit from Ihram and the end of the Umrah.
Planning
Which period to choose for your Umrah?
| Period | Months | Crowd | Price | Spirituality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Off-season Ideal for families and seniors | Muharram β Rajab | Low | β¬β¬ | βββ |
Pre-Ramadan Good price / spirituality balance | Chaabane | Moderate | β¬β¬β¬ | ββββ |
Ramadan Unique spiritual experience β plan early | Ramadan | Very high | β¬β¬β¬β¬ | βββββ |
Summer Intense heat (45Β°C+) β stay hydrated | Dhul Qada | High | β¬β¬β¬ | βββ |
Frequently asked questions about Umrah
What is the difference between Umrah and Hajj?
Umrah is the "lesser pilgrimage", which can be performed at any time of year. Hajj is the "greater pilgrimage", one of the 5 pillars of Islam, which every able Muslim must perform at least once in their lifetime, on specific dates of the Islamic calendar (the month of Dhul Hijjah). Umrah does not replace Hajj but is highly meritorious.
How much does an Umrah cost in 2026?
The cost varies by season and standard chosen. A non-Ramadan Umrah package typically includes: flight (β¬350-600), accommodation in Mecca + Medina (β¬500-1500/week depending on standard), and transfers. Total budget: from β¬1,200 in economy, β¬3,000-6,000 in comfort. During Ramadan, prices can triple.
How do I get an Umrah visa?
The Umrah visa is obtained either through an approved agency, or directly online on the official nusuk.sa portal (e-visa in 24-72h). Required documents: passport valid for at least 6 months, ID photos, proof of mahram for women traveling alone, and mandatory ACWY meningococcal vaccination.
Can I perform Umrah without an agency?
Technically yes, since the nusuk.sa portal opened, but it requires good planning: getting your own visa, booking hotels (hard given huge demand), arranging transfers. For a first Umrah, an approved agency is strongly recommended β it handles everything and ensures the rituals are performed correctly.
When is the best time to perform Umrah?
Each period has its advantages: Ramadan (peak spiritual experience, but high prices and huge crowds), Shaaban (just before Ramadan, similar spirituality but calmer), Muharram/Safar (low season, low prices, ideal with children). Avoid: the Hajj period (Dhul Hijjah) β Mecca is then saturated and hotels unavailable for Umrah.
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