Umrah Ticket Price – Best Time to Plan

Planning an Umrah pilgrimage involves several key considerations, one of the most important being the ticket price. Airfare to Saudi Arabia can fluctuate greatly depending on the season, airline, and how far in advance you book. Understanding these factors will help you choose the best time to plan your Umrah and save money on flights. Here’s a guide to Umrah ticket prices from Mumbai and tips on when to plan your trip for the best deals.

1. Factors Influencing Umrah Ticket Prices

Several factors can affect the cost of airfare from Mumbai to Jeddah or Madinah for Umrah. These include:

Seasonality: The time of year you travel can significantly impact ticket prices. Peak seasons like Ramadan and school holidays typically see higher demand, driving up prices.
Booking in Advance: The earlier you book your tickets, the better chances you have of securing lower prices. Last-minute bookings, especially during peak seasons, are generally more expensive.
Airlines: Ticket prices vary by airline, with some offering more affordable options for economy class. Popular airlines for Umrah travel include Air India, Saudia, and Emirates.
Direct vs. Connecting Flights: Direct flights are often more expensive than those with layovers, so connecting flights may be an option for budget-conscious travelers.

2. Peak Seasons and Ticket Prices

Peak seasons for Umrah travel are the busiest times of the year, and airfares are usually higher during these periods. Here are the main seasons to keep in mind:

Ramadan: Performing Umrah during Ramadan is highly rewarding for many Muslims, making it one of the busiest times for Umrah travel. Due to high demand, ticket prices can increase by 20% to 40% during Ramadan, particularly in the last ten days.
School Holidays: Many families prefer to perform Umrah during school breaks, which can also lead to a rise in ticket prices. This includes summer vacation and winter holidays.
Eid Periods: The days leading up to Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha also see increased demand for Umrah, resulting in higher airfares.
Estimated Ticket Price During Peak Seasons:
Economy class tickets from Mumbai to Jeddah or Madinah during peak seasons: ₹55,000 to ₹70,000 (round-trip).

3. Off-Peak Seasons and Ticket Prices

Traveling during the off-peak seasons offers a great opportunity to save money on Umrah tickets. Fewer pilgrims travel during these periods, leading to lower demand and more affordable prices.

Post-Hajj Period: The months immediately following Hajj (Muharram, Safar, and Rabi al-Awwal) are considered off-peak. Ticket prices tend to be lower, and there’s less crowding at the holy sites.
Mid-Year Period: The months between January and March, outside of school holidays, are also ideal for budget-conscious travelers. During this time, airlines often offer discounted fares to fill flights.
Estimated Ticket Price During Off-Peak Seasons:
Economy class tickets from Mumbai to Jeddah or Madinah during off-peak seasons: ₹35,000 to ₹50,000 (round-trip).

4. Best Time to Plan for Affordable Umrah Tickets

The best time to plan your Umrah trip to save on ticket prices is during the off-peak season and by booking your flights well in advance. Here are a few tips to help you plan:

Book 3-6 Months in Advance: Booking your tickets early can help you lock in lower prices, especially if you’re traveling during high-demand periods like Ramadan or school holidays.
Travel During Off-Peak Months: If possible, plan your Umrah trip between January and March, or just after Hajj, when ticket prices are lower.
Look for Deals and Promotions: Keep an eye out for airline promotions, especially during non-peak seasons. Airlines often run sales or offer special rates for groups traveling to perform Umrah.

5. Tips for Finding Affordable Umrah Tickets

Here are a few strategies for finding the best deals on Umrah tickets:

Use Price Comparison Websites: Websites like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Google Flights allow you to compare ticket prices across various airlines and booking platforms.
Be Flexible with Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, use the “flexible date” option on booking platforms to find the cheapest available flights within a specific time frame.
Consider Connecting Flights: While direct flights are more convenient, connecting flights can sometimes be significantly cheaper. If you don’t mind a longer journey, this can save you money.
Sign Up for Fare Alerts: Set up fare alerts through travel websites to get notified when ticket prices drop for your selected routes.

6. Additional Costs to Consider

In addition to ticket prices, there are a few other costs you’ll need to factor into your Umrah budget:

Visa Fees: The cost of your Umrah visa, including processing fees, ranges from ₹7,000 to ₹10,000.
Accommodation: Hotel prices can vary depending on proximity to Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah. Off-peak hotel prices are generally lower.
Local Transportation: Costs for transportation between Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah should also be considered. Shared buses or group transportation are more affordable options.

Conclusion

Planning your Umrah journey with an eye on ticket prices can make a significant difference to your overall budget. For the best deals, consider traveling during the off-peak seasons—especially right after Hajj or between January and March. Booking your flights 3-6 months in advance and remaining flexible with your travel dates can further help you secure lower airfares. With these tips in mind, you can plan a fulfilling and affordable Umrah trip from Mumbai with ease.

1. When is the best time to find affordable Umrah tickets?

The best time to find affordable Umrah tickets is during the off-peak season, which typically falls between January and March or right after Hajj. Booking 3-6 months in advance can also help you secure lower prices.

2. How much do Umrah tickets cost during peak seasons?

During peak seasons like Ramadan or school holidays, Umrah tickets can range from ₹55,000 to ₹70,000 for a round-trip from Mumbai to Jeddah or Madinah.

3. How much do Umrah tickets cost during off-peak seasons?

In the off-peak season, round-trip tickets from Mumbai to Jeddah or Madinah are typically priced between ₹35,000 to ₹50,000.

4. How early should I book my Umrah flight for the best price?

It’s recommended to book your Umrah flight 3-6 months in advance to get the best price, especially if you plan to travel during high-demand times such as Ramadan.

5. Are direct flights more expensive than connecting flights?

Yes, direct flights are generally more expensive than connecting flights. If you are looking to save money and don’t mind a longer journey, opting for a connecting flight can help reduce costs.

6. What airlines offer flights from Mumbai to Jeddah or Madinah for Umrah?

Popular airlines offering flights from Mumbai to Jeddah or Madinah include Air India, Saudia, Emirates, and Qatar Airways. Prices vary based on the airline and time of travel.

7. Can I find discounts or promotions on Umrah tickets?

Yes, airlines often offer promotions and discounts, especially during the off-peak seasons. You can use price comparison websites and set up fare alerts to stay informed about price drops.

8. What other costs should I consider besides the flight for my Umrah trip?

In addition to flight costs, you should budget for Umrah visa fees (₹7,000 to ₹10,000), accommodation, local transportation, and meals.

9. Is it cheaper to travel for Umrah after Hajj?

Yes, traveling for Umrah immediately after Hajj is considered an off-peak season, and ticket prices are generally lower during this period.