Winter Umrah Guide - What to Expect, What to Pack and How to Prepare

Choosing Umrah in winter is a good choice, especially for people from the UK, due to milder weather compared to the hotter months of Saudi Arabia.

Days in Makkah and Madinah are mild, and nights are cooler. And this season is much easier on the feet than summer.

Pack layers, not a heavy coat, two sets of Ihram, a light jacket and warm socks.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Season: December to February
• Makkah: About 20-30°C by day, 10-15°C at night
• Madinah: About 15-20°C by day, 5-10°C at night
• Crowds: Winter Umrah peaks in the December holiday period
• Ihram: Two sets for men

The winter period runs from December to February.

• December, Christmas and New Year: Busiest and a little expensive (Holidays start generally from the third week of December to the first week of January)
• January: The level of crowd is lower after New Year.
• February half-term: Families return (running from the first week of February to the third week of February)
• Ramadan 2027: Expected 8th February to 9th March, depending on moon sighting. The prices are volatile and overlap with the winter calendar.

The prices of Umrah packages rise, so book Christmas Umrah, January Umrah, February Umrah and Ramadan 2027 Umrah early for peak weeks.

The rules to perform Umrah in winter are the same as usual. But for winter, you’d need to change the fabric.

• Men: Two unstitched white sheets (Ihram cloth); choose towelling or thick cotton.
• Women: No special garments are allowed; only choose modest cloth based on Islamic ruling.
• Flight: Put on your Ihram before crossing the Miqat boundary.
• Extras: Carry an Ihram belt and a small pouch.

See our Mistakes to Avoid on Umrah guide.

As there’ll be a large number of pilgrims in Makkah, the chance of catching a cough and cold is higher. 

Wash your hands more often, and get proper medication for any ongoing disease for an easier journey. 

Get the Meningitis ACWY vaccination 10 days before boarding the plane, and keep checking the official Saudi Ministry of Health portals for new requirements.

In case of chronic disease, keep your latest prescriptions and necessary medication in their original form.

Here’s what should be marked off the list:

• Passport: Check that your passport has a validity of 6 months.
• Visa or ETA: Apply early for the visa and confirm the route for UK passport holders with official sources, since rules continue to change.
• Nusuk: Every pilgrim must register on Nusuk to access Rawdah.
• Insurance and emergency contacts: Learn them or write them on a wristband.
• ATOL Protection: When you compare winter Umrah packages, make sure to choose one with ATOL protection.

If you’d like to know in detail about the Documents needed for Umrah, read this blog.

Here’s what to pack for:

• Families: Extra layers, snacks and children's medicines; winter Umrah with kids needs shorter outings and proper breaks.
• Elderly pilgrims: Pack medicines, supportive shoes, and book a wheelchair if needed while booking your package.
• Couples and first-timers: As a first-timer, learn the rites and pack warm or practical clothes.

In cooler weather, it’s easier to walk and visit all the sightseeing (Ziyarat) places. 

In Madinah, visit Quba and Uhud. 

In Makkah, visit Jabal Thawr and Hira. To learn more about the top places to visit in Makkah, read this.

Carry water, comfortable shoes and a light jacket; that keeps Umrah in winter comfortable on foot.

Winter Umrah is a peak time, and packages sell out faster, so compare and book your package early. 

And check these points:

• Hotel distance: How far is it from the Haram and Masjid an-Nabawi?
• Star rating: 4- or 5-star.
• Departure Airport: Check your nearest airport and flight time.