This month of December is attractive to those pilgrims who want to perform Umrah in cooler weather. It is obviously one of those months when you get very comfortable weather. But it doesn’t automatically make it the perfect month to take this journey. December Umrah packages are also something that attract many pilgrims to take this journey without any financial hurdles. However, many countries have school holidays and adults get time off from work as well. These things bring so many pilgrims to the Haram that it becomes difficult for some pilgrims to perform Umrah. So, it can become difficult for pilgrims to decide if they should take this journey in December or not. The following article will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this month so you can make an informed decision.
What Is December Weather Like in Makkah and Madinah?
In general, the weather will be very cold in December in both holy cities compared to summer months. You will find the most comfortable weather in Makkah in this month. The mornings will be cold in Makkah but midday will be a little hot but comfortable. You will be able to walk freely through the city very comfortably. Moreover, there will be no issue for you to take a walk from your hotel to the Haram and back. Also, it will help you reduce travel costs as you won’t need transportation to move around in the city. Similarly, you will face the same weather conditions in Madina. However, you should not pack your bag for summer but keep a lightweight jacket. You will need it in the morning and at night if you want to spend time in the holy mosque.
The Biggest Advantage: More Comfortable Conditions for Worship
It is the biggest advantage that you can perform Umrah rituals very comfortably. In summer, people have to face very harsh temperatures in Saudi Arabia. This heat makes it difficult for many pilgrims to perform Umrah rituals. There are mainly two rituals which require physical strength (Tawaf and Sa’i), and the heat makes them more difficult to perform. There are many pilgrims who fall ill while performing these rituals in the heat. Moreover, pilgrims have to use many things to save themselves from this heat. But they do not need to do any of these things in the month of December. Another bigger advantage of this month is that pilgrims get to spend more time in the Haram. However, weather is the major advantage of this month but it shouldn’t be the only factor for selection.
December Crowds: Comfortable Weather Can Mean More Pilgrims
As mentioned earlier, many pilgrims choose this month because of the comfortable weather. But that is not the only reason why there are more crowds in the Haram in December. It is also the month when many countries witness school holidays. Moreover, it is the month of holidays and festivals, so many workplaces also give employees time off. So, this gives many families a chance to perform Umrah together. You would know that it is the dream of every family to take this journey together. But hot weather doesn’t allow them to take this journey especially families with younger kids. The weather can take a toll on kids’ health, making it impossible for families to take this journey in summer.
This is why they all choose December to take this journey together. Furthermore, they also get to use December Umrah packages to reduce travel costs. It is the month of festivals so many travel agencies offer many kinds of Umrah packages. These packages allow families and pilgrims to enjoy premium hotels and services at low cost. All these factors become the reason for bringing more pilgrims to the Haram than any other month. That means you will have to deal with a lot of crowds in the Haram in this month.
Are December Umrah Packages More Expensive?
When something is in demand, its prices will go up which is basic economics. So, you would also understand that the number of pilgrims will rise in this month so will the prices of everything. First of all, you will need to book the flights and you will get very high prices due to increased bookings. There is also a chance that you might not get your desired seat or airline. This month, you will have to use whatever you get because people book in advance. You can also use the trick of booking in advance, but you will have to do it many months before. That’s the only way you will get what you desire. However, you will still have to deal with crowds and many other things will be expensive in the city. You have to be ready for that when you plan an Umrah in December.
The December Travel Challenge: Flights, Hotels and Availability
This month can bring a lot of challenges when it comes to travel arrangements. As mentioned in the previous section that you will find the most expensive flights due to bulk booking. But the same will be the case with the hotels. All the hotels will increase their prices and not just for rooms but for every service. Similarly, local transportation such as taxis and other services will increase their prices as well. So, you have to prepare your mind for these expenses. On normal days, you will not face such challenges.
Final Verdict
So, the advantages of this month are that it provides comfortable weather, easier walking and is friendly for families. But there will be heavy crowds, and travel costs will be higher. You can sort out the travel expenses for flights and hotels by booking in advance. But you will still have to face other challenges. Decide what aligns with your travel style and budget. Moreover, to find the best December Umrah packages, take this journey with Muslims Holy Travel. They not only offer the best travel deals but also guide every pilgrim according to their background and requirements.
