Umrah During Winter: Essential Guide for 2025 Travel & Preparation

Are you planning to perform Umrah this coming winter? Well, you’re not alone.

Many Muslims across the United Kingdom prefer embarking on their Umrah journey during the colder months.

They have a good reason for it.

While the UK experiences icy mornings and short daylight hours, the climate in Makkah and Madinah during the winter season appears far more welcoming to UK residents.

The other reason you might want to consider Winter Umrah 2025 is the winter breaks you’ll get.

The mild temperatures and winter skies in Saudi Arabia make it an ideal time to perform Umrah comfortably.

If you’re planning your trip from  Edinburgh or elsewhere in the UK, you’ll find this guide packed with essential tips, practical advice, and helpful travel insights.

 

Why Perform Umrah in Winter? Spiritual & Practical Benefits 

Umrah during winter is more comfortable for the pilgrims who come from warmer climates.

Here are the benefits of performing Umrah 2025:

Umrah package in winter brings along fewer distractions, which allows the pilgrims to focus on their worship.

Compared to the busy summer months, winter Umrah usually sees fewer pilgrims.

This allows the pilgrims to have a peaceful experience without being affected by the intense heat and large crowds.

 

Is Umrah Allowed in December and Winter Months? 

Yes, Umrah can be performed in December and in fact throughout the winter months.

There are no time or seasonal restrictions on when one can perform Umrah.

Muslims are encouraged to visit Makkah and Madinah whenever they can.

However, you should plan your trip carefully, keeping the accommodation availability and travel logistics in mind.

 

Weather in Makkah and Madinah During Winter: What to Expect 

Here’s what you can expect during your Winter Umrah trip:

The daytime temperatures in Makkah in winter average between 20°C and 30°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 10°C and 15°C.

The weather is generally dry, but it’s much more comfortable during winter.

Compared to Makkah, Madinah has a slightly cooler climate.

The city experiences daytime temperatures around 15°C and 20°C. The nighttime temperature dips to 5°C and 10°C.

 

Clothing Tips: What to Wear for Winter Umrah 

When preparing for Umrah in the winter, the two factors you need to consider are comfort and respect for the guidelines.

Here are some essential tips you need to consider alongside the Ihram guidelines:

General Winter Clothing for Travel & Ziyarat 

 

Ihram in Winter: Choosing the Right Fabric and Staying Warm 

When performing Umrah, you will be in Ihram. The Ihram is a simple garment for men, which includes just two pieces of white cloth.

Men can’t wear anything else with Ihram. Hence, it’s important that you choose fabric that suits the winter climate.

Lightweight cotton or polyester blend fabrics are great choices for Makkah’s winter.

For women, the attire includes regular modest clothing, along with a headscarf.

The one that complies with Islamic dress codes. Women can wear extra layers of warm garments under their Ihram.

 

Can You Use a Blanket or Thermal Layers in Ihram? 

Men are not allowed to wear stitched clothing while in the state of Ihram.

While women can opt for thermal garments as their Ihraam, men can select a winter-friendly fabric for the ihraam that will keep them warm. 

 

Packing Essentials for Cold Weather

Here’s what to pack when you opt for the Men must wear unstitched garments, but can choose thicker fabric for warmth.

Women may wear thermal stitched clothing, as there are no such restrictions for them. package:

 

Tips for Families Performing Umrah With Kids in Winter 

Taking children on Umrah during winter requires extra preparation.

Here’s what to do when you book an Umrah package:

 

Keep Warm Layers for Children

Children can get cold when they switch from indoor heating to outdoor cooler temperatures.

Make sure to include extra layers in your packing.

You should go for breathable clothing along with warm jackets, hats, and gloves.

 

Stay Hydrated

Remember that even in cooler weather, hydration is important for your family’s health.

Always carry refillable water bottles so you can make sure the little ones stay fresh while they spend long hours in the Haram.

 

Plan Shorter Visits to the Haram

During Umrah, make sure you let them rest between prayers so they don’t get tired and cranky.

When planning your Flight schedule, consider arriving a few days early so your kids can easily adjust to the new season and environment.

 

Bring Snacks and Entertainment

Long waits and crowded spaces can become a source of irritation for children.

If you want your Umrah 2025 trip to go without any hiccups, don’t forget to pack snacks, books, and drawing materials to keep the kids occupied.

 

Manage Prayer Times

Keep in mind the changes in prayer times during colder months.

To avoid large crowds, you should arrive early so you and your family can find a comfortable spot for prayers.

 

Health and Safety Tips for Winter Umrah

Winter travel for Umrah may not bring the snow and freezing winds you’re used to in the United Kingdom, but the shift in climate, long flights, and physical demands of the pilgrimage can still take a toll on you and your family. 

 

Stay Warm but Avoid Overheating

You should be mindful of your layers to avoid sweating or becoming too warm.

Overcrowded areas can make you feel overheated; hence, select layering options that you can easily wear and remove. 

 

Protect Your Skin

The cool air can feel harsh on your skin. It’s a good idea to carry a moisturiser as it will help prevent dryness and chapped skin.

 

Keep Vaccinations Up to Date

To make sure you don’t catch the flu in crowded areas, get all the necessary vaccinations done for you and your family. 

 

Monitor for Cold Symptoms 

Keep a check on any symptoms of cold-related illnesses, including chills or a sore throat.

In case of worsening symptoms, you might have to seek medical attention. 

 

Rest When Needed

Rest is very important during pilgrimage, especially when travelling with children or the elderly.

Take breaks as needed to make sure everyone stays healthy during your Umrah trip.

 

Planning Travel & Accommodation for a Winter Umrah 

Here’s how to plan Winter Umrah smartly:

 

Choosing the Right Hotel Near the Haram 

Try to book a hotel near the Haram in Makkah or close to the Masjid e Nabawi in Madinah.

This will make going for prayers easier, especially with pleasant mornings and evenings that the weather of Saudi Arabia offers during the winter season.

 

Flight & Packing Tips for Winter Travel 

Many Umrah packages include hotel deals during the winter break, so booking early can actually save you money.

Select a reliable airline and pack luggage within the limits, so you start your journey without facing any airport complications.

Spiritual Preparation & Focus During the Winter Season

The winter season is best for spiritual growth and focuses on Ibaadat.

 

Avoiding Distractions in Cold Weather 

The peace of the winter season allows the pilgrims to indulge in less external distraction.

You can use this time to reflect on your faith and focus on the reasons you actually planned your Umrah trip for. 

 

Making the Most of Shorter Days for Worship 

The shorter daylight hours will allow you extra time for worship and supplication, especially during the quiet hours of the breezy evenings.

 

FAQs

 

Conclusion: Umrah During Winter

Performing Umrah during the winter season is a spiritually enriching experience.

For those in the United Kingdom, the Thanksgiving holiday and subsequent breaks present a great chance of going on this sacred journey without the need for extended time off work or school.

You can benefit from more affordable Thanksgiving Umrah packages during these off-peak periods.

We hope your efforts get accepted and that you find a sense of fulfillment in your pilgrimage.