Exploring Makkah: A Guide To The Holiest City In Islam

Makkah, situated in the western region of Saudi Arabia, known as Makkah al Mukarramah, is a beacon of spirituality and religious significance. As the birthplace of Islam and home to the holiest site, the honourable Kaaba, Makkah attracts millions of pilgrims each year (Hajj and Umrah).

Makkah al Mukarramah embraces the Qiblah of Muslims. In the past, it was also called Bakkah, Umm Al-Qura, and Al Balad Al Amin and is also the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him). In this Makkah climate guide, we will discuss the best time to visit Makkah and when you should make your plans.

In November and December, temperatures are very comfortable, and rainfall is low. Fewer people are on the streets and in the queues to see attractions. Another good time to visit Mecca is from January to March, with low rainfall and bearable temperatures.

Therefore, the best time to visit Makkah is in November or December. However, because of its ideal climate, it is possible to face difficulty getting accommodation during this time. Other dry and hot summer months may be severe, as the temperature may rise to 45 degrees. 

October to November is the Peak Season

What To Expect

• Gentle weather with temperatures ranging from 18 to 30 degrees Celsius.
• This is the peak tourist season, so expect large crowds at popular attractions, especially during the Hajj pilgrimage and Umrah.
• Various religious events and festivals take place as they are the best months for Umrah and Hajj. 

May to May is the Moderate Season

What To Expect

• Warm weather with temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees Celsius
• This is a less crowded time to perform Umrah as the Hajj season is over.
• The city is moderately crowded, making it a good time to explore leisurely. 

June to September is the Off- Season

What To Expect

• Extremely hot weather with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.
• Due to the extreme heat, this is the off-peak season for general tourism, but Umrah can still be performed.
• The city is less crowded, making it the best time to visit Makkah and explore leisurely.
• Budget-friendly accommodation due to off-peak season. 

Best Time to Perform Umrah

Selecting the right time for Umrah balances weather, crowds, and cost to ensure a fulfilling pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah. 

Key Takeaways 

• Best Time by Month- Ramadan for spiritual prominence, Muharram and Safar for fewer crowds, making it the best Makkah tourist season.
• Best Time by Season- Spring and winter are for comfortable weather, and summer offers cheap deals.
• Best Timing for Rituals- After Fajr and Zuhr, for fewer crowds, late at night is good for peace.

Knowing the best time to perform Umrah is paramount, as no two pilgrims can simultaneously make this sacred Makkah pilgrimage to the House of Allah during peak season.

Some may find it challenging to go to Umrah during peak summer months as the Saudi Arabian heat may be too intense. Meanwhile, others look for less crowded times to perform Umrah regardless of the weather or budget.

As such, the best time to visit Makkah and perform Umrah will change depending on specific interests, conveniences and preferences. But unlike Hajj, picking a suitable time is key since Umrah can be performed year-round as often as you want. 

The Best Time for Umrah- Month and Weather

The entire Umrah duration takes around 3 to 6 hours; thus, going to the correct month and season is crucial. Here is a look at vital factors to help you decide the perfect time and weather to be in Makkah for travel: 

• Umrah in Ramadan

For most Muslims, the best time to go to Umrah is Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. During Ramadan, Umrah carries prominent rewards; in some hadiths, it has been equated to Hajj.

If you want abundant rewards and blessings for your devotion and pure intention, travel to Haram during Ramadan for Umrah. Experience the holy atmosphere in Makkah travel seasons during this blessed month, with days of fasting followed by sacred nights of Taraweeh. (special night prayers).

However, since Ramadaan is a popular time for Umrah, there may be larger crowds and higher travel costs. Book your Umrah packages months ahead of time to mitigate travel costs. To beat the crowds, pick the best months for Umrah and Hajj in Ramadan, such as the first 20 nights, generally calmer than the last 10, more intense, meaningful nights. 

Best Months to Perform Umrah 

• Muharram and Safar

The months of Muharram and Safar are deemed highly auspicious for performing Umrah. Following the Hajj season, there are considered grand months. Also, since the Hajj is over for off-peak travel to Makkah, the holy mosque is relatively empty, allowing pilgrims to perform Umrah rituals and make duas at their own pace. 

• May to September

May to September are typically very hot in Saudi Arabia, with temperatures peaking at 45 degrees Celsius in August. Many pilgrims choose to avoid these months owing to the extreme heat, which makes it the least crowded time for Umrah. While the heat can be especially hard for young kids and elderly pilgrims, others can book Umrah according to deals and the best time to visit Makkah. However, ample sun protection and hydration are a must. 

• October to March

Regarding favourable weather, October to March is the best time to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia. The relatively soothing daily temperatures average around 31 degrees Celsius in Makkah, while they fluctuate between 24 and 35 degrees Celsius in Madinah. Therefore, it is essential to go through our Hajj and Umrah Travel tips mentioned below- 

• Spring (Mid-March to Mid-June)

Several Muslims select to book Umrah during the spring as it is neither scorching hot nor unbearably cold at this time. So, spring is among the Makkah pilgrims' peak seasons, during which Umrah is performed to avoid extreme weather. As such, you will find the holy Makkah city buzzing with many Umrah pilgrims between these months. 

• Summer (Mid-June to Mid-September)

These months witness relatively low pilgrim activity due to the harsh desert heat weather in Makkah for travel. Families with kids and elderly pilgrims avoid these moths as the intense Saudi Arabian heat can be unrelenting. Conversely, thanks to competitive pricing, fewer crowds often translate to more affordable Umrah deals. If you can handle scorching temperatures and want cheap deals with fewer crowds, this is the best time to visit Makkah. 

• Autumn (October to November)

Rain is less likely in autumn and can be humid in Saudi Arabia. Nevertheless, the temperatures are comfortable enough for pilgrims of all ages to perform Umrah anytime during the day. Many pick October to perform Umrah as it flaunts ideal weather in Makkah to travel and cheap prices. 

• Winter (December to February)

Outside of Ramadan, many consider winter the best time to perform Umrah. It invites pilgrims with warm, cosy weather and relatively fewer tourist crowds. The pleasant daytime temperatures also make it ideal for enjoying organized tours, historical excursions and Ziyarat visits to holy sites for Makkah pilgrimage peak season visits.

While you can understand the best time to perform Umrah during the month and season, knowing the specific timing to perform the rituals is also essential. 

• Fajr

Most pilgrims return to their hotels after the Fajr prayer, the less crowded time to perform Umrah. This allows one to complete Umrah rituals at one's own pace with fewer fellow pilgrims, appropriate as Makkah travel seasons.   

• Zuhr

Besides the Fajr prayer, Zuhr is also a good time to perform Umrah. Generally, most people return to their hotels for lunch. While the temperature may rise, the crowds will still be smaller, so you can perform the sacred Umrah rituals without worrying about vast pilgrims around you. Know more about the best weather in Makkah for travel in our blog below. 

• Asar, Maghrib, and Isha

The times of Asar, Maghrib, and Isha are relatively crowded, and many Muslims choose to stay back at the Haram. The weather is also pleasant, making it a good time to rm Umrah without the intense Saudi Arabian heat, which is the best time to visit Makkah. 

Hajj and Umrah Travel Essential Tips

Travelling to Makkah for Hajj or Umrah is a spiritually enriching experience, but proper preparation is essential to ensure a smooth and safe journey. 

• Plan and Book Early

Hajj and Umrah require careful planning, so book your flights, accommodations and travel packages in advance. BookMyBooking.com offers tailored Saudi Arabia tour packages, including visa assistance, flights, comfortable stays, and guided tours, to ensure a seamless journey where you can enjoy your Makkah pilgrimage in the year's peak season. 

• Pack Smarlty and Lightly

Your packing should include- 

• Ihram attire- for men, two white unstitched sheets for women, it should be a modest, loose-fitting outfit)
• Comfortable footwear- Like slippers or sandals, as you will walk extensively
• Small backpack for essentials in the Makkah tourist season.
• Personal Hygiene items-Medication and first aid kit for any health concerns

          Portable prayer mat and Quran for prayers and spiritual reflection 

• Stay Hydrated and Maintain Energy

The weather in Makkah can be extreme when travelling, especially during Hajj. Carry a refillable water bottle and drink plenty of water. Eat nutritious meals and carry energy-boosting snacks to maintain strength during long worship hours. 

• Respect Local Laws and Culture

Saudi Arabia has strict laws regarding dress codes and behaviour. Men and women must dress modestly and follow Islamic guidance. Avoid taking unauthorised photographs and always show respect to fellow pilgrims. To learn more about the budget-friendly time to visit Makkah, visit our BookMyBooking.com website today and get your Saudi Arabia customised tour packages now. 

• Be Mindful of Crowds and Safety

The Hajj attracts millions of pilgrims, leading to large crowds. Always stay close to your group, avoid rushing, and be patient. Keep your valuables secure, use a waist pouch for essential documents, and share your location with family members when going for the Makkah pilgrimage peak season. 

• Trust Reliable Travel Services

Choosing a trusted travel provider like BookMyBooking.com makes for a smooth and stress-free pilgrimage. Our services include visa assistance, accommodation, transport, guided tours, and 24x7 support, ensuring a fulfilling and worry-free experience. 

• Learn the Rituals Beforehand

To perform Hajj and Umrah properly during the Makkah travel season, familiarise yourself with the rites and procedures before arriving in Makkah. Watch videos, read books and consult experienced scholars to ensure you correctly perform Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba), Sa'i (walking between Safa and Marwah) and other rituals. 

• Umrah at Night and Sleeping in Ihram

You can perform Umrah at night, although the best time is between 11:30 PM and 2:00 AM, as per Dr Tawfiq Al Rabiah, the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah. Regarding sleeping patterns, pilgrims arriving at Makkah pilgrimage during the peak seasons must sleep in Iharam before performing Umrah. However, you cannot remove the Ihram clothing and wear regular clothes while still in the sacred Ihram state.

Read More: Discover The Best Time To Visit Saudi Arabia: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Conclusion

At BookMyBooking.com, we offer expertly curated Saudi Arabia tour packages seamlessly. Umrah's journey during the best weather in Makkah for travel ensures a hassle-free and spiritually enriching experience. From visa assistance to accommodation, guided tours, and transport, we handle every detail with acre. Travel with confidence as we prioritise your safety, comfort, and convenience.

Let us make your journey to Saudi Arabia unforgettable with our trusted services. Book now and travel worry-free with BMB during the best Makkah travel seasons.