Planning your spiritual journey to Makkah for Umrah is an experience filled with faith, emotion, and careful preparation. For UK pilgrims, choosing the right time to book an Umrah package can significantly affect the cost, comfort, and overall convenience of the trip. While some focus on seasons of spiritual significance, others prioritize affordability and ease of travel. This guide explores the best time to book Umrah packages from the UK to help you maximize savings without compromising quality.

1. Book Early – Save Big

The golden rule for getting the best Umrah deals is booking early. Most experienced pilgrims and travel experts recommend booking at least 3 to 6 months in advance of your intended departure.

Benefits of early booking:

• Access to discounted flights

• Availability of 3, 4, and 5-star hotels

• Better selection of group travel dates

• Time to process visas and gather documents stress-free

Especially for Ramadan and school holidays, early booking ensures you lock in lower prices before demand surges.

2. Avoid Peak Seasons to Save More

Certain months experience a massive influx of pilgrims, which drives up prices. To get the most value for your money, try to avoid peak Umrah seasons, such as:

• Ramadan: While spiritually rewarding, this is the most expensive time.

• December holidays: Many UK residents travel during Christmas, increasing demand.

• Easter and mid-term school breaks: Prices rise due to school closures and family travel.

Instead, opt for low or off-peak periods, which include:

• Safar to Rabi al-Thani (2nd and 4th months of the Islamic calendar)

• Post-Hajj season (Muharram to Rabi al-Awwal)

• January and early February (after the holiday rush)

Flights, hotel rooms, and package rates are often significantly cheaper during these months.

3. Weekday Departures are Cheaper

Many Umrah packages from the UK are priced based on departure days. Flights departing on Tuesdays or Wednesdays tend to be cheaper than those leaving on weekends.

If your schedule allows for flexibility:

• Ask your travel agent for mid-week package options

• Consider 10-day or 12-day trips that fall outside the busy weekend window

• Choose shoulder days to fly when demand is lower

This strategy can easily save you £100–£300 per person on airfare alone.

4. Travel During Shoulder Months

“Shoulder months” are those just before or after peak seasons. These periods offer a good balance between affordability and decent weather.

Recommended shoulder periods:

• Late Sha’ban (just before Ramadan begins)

• Early Rajab (two months before Ramadan)

• Post-Ramadan (Shawwal to Dhu al-Qa’dah)

You’ll benefit from fewer crowds, lower package costs, and often better access to hotels closer to Masjid al-Haram or Masjid an-Nabawi.

5. Group Packages vs. Private Packages

Group Umrah packages, especially those booked early through reputable UK travel agencies, offer excellent savings due to:

• Bulk hotel bookings

• Shared transportation

• Guided tours and religious support

Group packages are usually released 3 to 6 months in advance, and the earliest birds often secure the lowest available prices.

Private/custom packages allow flexibility but cost more unless booked during off-peak months.

6. Watch for Promotions and Flash Sales

Many licensed UK Hajj and Umrah operators run limited-time offers during Islamic months or special travel fairs.

Common discounts include:

• Early bird discounts (up to £400 off per person)

• Family and group offers (e.g., 1 child free per 2 adults)

• Winter Umrah deals (December–February)

Stay subscribed to Umrah agency newsletters and watch out for deals during events like:

• Islamic expos

• Ramadan/Eid travel promotions

• Black Friday or New Year deals

7. Book Outside School Holidays for Best Family Deals

If you're travelling as a family, you might feel limited to school holidays. However, if your children are young (pre-school) or you're flexible with dates, avoid UK term breaks.

Off-peak family savings can include:

• Reduced airfare (up to 30% off)

• Discounted child rates in triple or quad hotel rooms

• Less crowded Haram areas, making travel with children easier

8. Plan Around Saudi Airline Schedules

Saudi airlines like Saudia, Flynas, and Nesma Air often adjust their schedules and prices seasonally. Watch for:

• Winter schedule releases (October–December)

• Post-Hajj travel slots (August–September)

Flights from London Heathrow, Manchester, and Birmingham often have multiple daily options—book during their promo windows for big savings.

9. Use Trusted UK Travel Agencies

Working with a licensed Umrah operator in the UK ensures you:

• Avoid hidden fees

• Receive all-inclusive quotes (hotels, visa, flight, transport)

• Benefit from early-access deals and group rates

Book through ATOL-protected and Ministry of Hajj-approved agencies to secure your money and trip.

10. Monitor Currency Exchange Rates

Since Umrah payments involve converting British Pounds (GBP) to Saudi Riyals (SAR), booking your trip when the exchange rate is favorable can save you money.

Tip: Pay in full when the pound is strong to lock in your rate. Some agencies allow you to fix the rate at the time of booking, so ask in advance.

Conclusion

The best time to book Umrah packages UK isn’t just about when you want to travel—it’s about planning smartly. From booking early, traveling off-season, and flying mid-week to leveraging group discounts and watching currency rates, every decision can help you save hundreds of pounds while still enjoying a spiritually enriching journey. The earlier and more informed you are, the more rewarding your Umrah experience will be.