UAE: Umrah Packages For National Day Break Almost Sold Out, Say Operators

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

Dubai resident Salman Ubaid is among many Muslims who will be travelling for Umrah during this National Day break. After waiting for more than 3 years, the 29-year-old sales executive is finally preparing for his spiritual journey.

“I am going with three of my closest friends,” he said.“We have all been planning this for a long time, but work schedules never matched. When the four-day holiday was announced, we realised this was our chance. I have been waiting to go... it feels like the right time.”

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Salman said the short but meaningful trip is something he has been longing for.“I wanted to go when my parents visited earlier, but I couldn't get leave. Now, when I saw the National Day holidays from November 29 to December 2, I booked immediately. I am excited and a little emotional, because this is my first Umrah.”

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He is going along with his group, and they booked the package covering two days in Madinah and two days in Makkah, travel, visa, and accommodation within a walking distance of the Haram.“Everything is included, so it was perfect for us,” he said.

Demand surges

According to Umrah operators in the UAE, most packages are already close to full because of the long weekend. With a four-day long break, many residents, especially bachelors and those living away from their families, chose this as the ideal time to travel.

“This year, the National Day break has created a huge push,” said Shihab Perwad, from Rehan Al Jazeera Tourism.“Many bachelors and solo residents prefer short spiritual trips like this, because the leave structure works for them. They don't need to take extra days off from work.”

Shihab said packages that usually cost Dh1,400 have climbed to around Dh1,700 for the National Day week.

“It's mainly because hotel rates in Makkah and Madinah went up. Whenever there is a long weekend or a holiday period, hotels near the Haram increase their prices. But still, people are booking quickly, almost everything is sold out,” he added.

Despite the price jump, operators say that residents didn't hesitate.“Most of the packages were filled even before the holiday officially started,” said Shihab.“People want to take advantage of the weather and the long break.”

Weather, spiritual timing boost interest

The demand was also driven by cooler temperatures, making the pilgrimage more comfortable.“Winter is the best season for Umrah,” said Asim Malik, umrah consultant Hakim Umrah Tours and Travels.“The weather in Makkah and Madinah is pleasant now, so people actually enjoy walking and performing rites. This is one more reason why our packages were fully booked.”

Asim said his company saw a sudden rush from residents without families.“People who stay alone feel that long weekends are an opportunity to do something meaningful. Many told us they wanted to spend the National Day holidays in prayer,” he said.

The agency offered flight-inclusive packages for 2 day in Madinah and 2 days in Makkah, with visa, guided tours, breakfasts, and 4-star accommodation.“These all-inclusive packages are what residents prefer because everything is arranged. They just need to carry their ihram and passport,” added Rehan.

Hotels near the Haram expensive

Operators explained that the slight price jump is mainly due to hotel demand.“Hotels within walking distance from the Haram become expensive during long weekends,” said Shihab.

But residents still opted to pay more because of the convenience.“Nobody wants to waste time waiting for buses or walking from far,” said Rehan.“So the rooms close to the Haram get booked first.”

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