Performing Umrah during Ramadan is considered one of the most spiritually rewarding experiences for Muslims. The Prophet ﷺ said that performing Umrah in Ramadan is equivalent to performing Hajj with him — making it one of the most beloved times of the year for pilgrims.
But when exactly during Ramadan is the best time to perform Umrah? Should you go in the beginning, mid-Ramadan, the last 10 days, weekdays, or after Taraweeh?
This guide breaks down the best timing factors to help you plan Umrah wisely — spiritually, logistically, and comfortably.
Why Umrah in Ramadan is Unique
Ramadan transforms Makkah and Madinah in a way no other month does:
- Spirit of worship increases
- Masjid al-Haram stays active from night until Fajr
- Iftar meals are shared with millions
- Tahajjud & Taraweeh prayers elevate the experience
- Crowds from around the world unite
For many, this makes Ramadan the ideal month for Umrah, despite the higher cost and crowds.
Best Time During Ramadan — Quick Overview
| Timing | Pros | Cons |
| Beginning of Ramadan (1–10) | Easier hotels, lower crowd, cheaper flights | Less Ramadan atmosphere compared to last 10 days |
| Mid-Ramadan (11–20) | Balanced — not too crowded, better spiritual vibe | Prices begin rising |
| Last 10 Days (21–30) | Most spiritual, incredible Qiyam & Laylat al-Qadr | Extreme crowd, highest prices |
| Laylat al-Qadr Nights | Maximum reward potential | Packed inside Haram |
| After Taraweeh (Night Umrah) | Cooler weather & smoother movement | Longer waiting time for Tawaf |
| Early Morning (Before Fajr) | Cooler, peaceful, shortest lines | Need to stay awake or adjust sleep |
1. Beginning of Ramadan (Days 1–10)
Best for: families, first-time pilgrims, elderly, budget travelers
Benefits:
- Moderate crowds
- Prices still reasonable
- Hotels easier to book near Haram
- Easier Tawaf completion
- More time to settle spiritually
Downsides:
- Atmosphere is not yet at peak Ramadan intensity
- Many pilgrims wait for mid or last 10 days
For those who want balance between spirituality + comfort, early Ramadan is ideal.
2. Middle of Ramadan (Days 11–20)
Best for: balanced travelers who want crowd + spirituality mix
Benefits:
- Spiritual rhythm increases
- Taraweeh becomes more powerful
- Still manageable crowds
- Easier movement than final 10 days
Downsides:
- Prices begin rising (hotels + flights)
- Crowds start shifting higher
If you want value + spiritual intensity, mid-Ramadan is one of the smartest choices.
3. Last 10 Days (Days 21–30)
Best for: worship-focused pilgrims seeking maximum reward
These days include Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Decree) — better than 1000 months of worship.
Benefits:
- Most spiritual period of Ramadan
- Powerful Taraweeh & Tahajjud
- Masjid al-Haram is active all night
- Tremendous reward for good deeds
Downsides:
- Highest hotel + flight prices of the year
- Haram crowd at maximum capacity
- Harder access to Mataf area
- Long queues for Tawaf & Sa’i
- Requires physical stamina
If you’re going purely for ibadah, nothing beats the last 10 nights.
Best Time of Day to Perform Umrah
Beyond which part of Ramadan, timing inside the day matters:
🌙 Night After Taraweeh
- Most popular time
- Cooler temperature
- Energetic worship atmosphere
- Smoother Tawaf than daytime
🌌 Qiyam al-Layl (Late Night / Tahajjud Time)
- Deep spiritual environment
- Fewer interruptions
- Tawaf often faster
- Perfect for quiet dua
🌅 Before Fajr
- Often fastest Tawaf window
- Strong spiritual vibe
- Cooler weather
☀️ After Dhuhr / Afternoon
- Least recommended due to heat + crowds
Important Practical Considerations
Crowds
Expect a lot of pilgrims, especially:
- Weekends
- Holidays in Muslim-majority countries
- Last 10 days
Costs
Hotels & flights spike significantly:
- +30–60% mid Ramadan
- +100–300% last 10 days (depending on proximity to Haram)
Health & Energy
Ramadan + fasting + hot weather can be tiring:
- Hydrate after Iftar
- Wear comfortable ihram/clothes
- Maintain energy with dates, honey, zamzam
Who Should Choose Which Timing?
Families / Kids / Elderly
➡ Beginning of Ramadan
First Time Umrah Travelers
➡ Beginning or Middle
Students / Budget-focused
➡ Beginning (best deals)
Pure Worship Seekers aiming Laylat al-Qadr
➡ Last 10 Days
If You Want Less Heat & Smooth Tawaf
➡ Night or Pre-Fajr
Spiritual Bonus: Umrah During Ramadan Rewards
Scholars highlight that:
- deeds are multiplied in Ramadan
- the reward of Umrah in Ramadan is magnified
- Laylat al-Qadr alone equals 84+ years of worship
Should You Stay in Makkah or Include Madinah?
Best combo:
➡ Madinah first → then Makkah
Benefits:
- easier on the body
- spiritually prepares you for Haram
- Madinah during Ramadan is peaceful & beautiful
Conclusion — When Is the Best Time Overall?
There is no single answer, because it depends on your priority:
✔ If you want maximum reward + atmosphere → Last 10 days
✔ If you want balance + good prices + manageable crowds → Middle of Ramadan
✔ If you want comfort + family-friendly + affordable → Beginning of Ramadan
✔ If you want the smoothest Tawaf → Late night to Pre-Fajr
No matter when you go — Umrah in Ramadan is one of the most unforgettable spiritual journeys a person can make.
