Tips for Performing Umrah during winter

Tips for Performing Umrah during winter

Umrah during winter months offers a peaceful, less crowded and affordable period for the holy rituals. Since the winter season is currently outside of Ramadan and Hajj, a comparatively lesser number of people are present in Makkah during this time to offer the holy rituals. As a result, you can easily get all inclusive Umrah package at an affordable cost without compromising on quality because there’s a lesser demand for them and larger availability.

Umrah during winter is ideal for families, especially when elderly people and children are also accompanying along. It is also the best time for the pilgrims arriving from cold climatic regions as moderate weather conditions persist in Makkah during winter with an average daytime temperature of 25 Degrees Celsius. However, nights can be chilly.

So, here are some of the tips that you should consider for performing Umrah during winter.

Select the Right Clothing

Though the temperature drops are not that significant in Makkah and Madinah, the weather can be chilly, especially in the early mornings and evenings. So, pilgrims must pack clothing according to this weather. Include essentials in your luggage like;

• Warm clothing.
• Sweaters.
• Jackets.
• Socks.
• Thermals
• Shawls, etc.

However, it’s important to remember that men in Ihram for Umrah cannot wear any piece of stitched clothing. So be mindful of that.

Prefer warmer Ihram Fabric

Since men cannot wear anything other than their Ihram during Umrah, they are usually limited to wearing a single piece of fabric. In such a scenario, one must pick a warmer Ihram fabric. Prefer a thicker material for your Ihram instead of cotton blended fabric to have sufficient insulation against the colder temperatures. This ensures that pilgrims, especially men, remain warm and comfortable throughout their Umrah journey.

Utilize Heat Packs

Heat packs, though small, can prove to be a game-changer in combating the winter chill of Makkah. As they are very small and portable, you can easily tuck them into your pockets and get instant warmth whenever and wherever needed.

Hydrate and Moisturize

The dry and cold weather of Makkah affects your skin, causing dryness and itching. Therefore, use unscented moisturizers and lip balms to keep your skin hydrated. In addition, you must keep your body hydrated as well by drinking sufficient water.

Considering the colder weather in the region, you might not feel that much thirsty. Yet, performing the holy rituals drains your body of water because of the longer walking and standing durations involved. So, consume a healthy amount of water on a daily basis, regardless of whether you feel thirsty or not.

Protect yourself from the cold

Colder weather conditions usually improve one’s sensitivity to catching cold and flu. That’s why pilgrims are advised to receive seasonal influenza vaccines when travelling for Umrah during winter, especially those who have asthmatic problems, or underlying health conditions.

• The best way to protect your body from cold and flu is by;
• Layering an appropriate amount of clothing.
• Using hats, gloves, and scarves when they don’t violate the state of Ihram.
• Consuming warm beverages like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, etc.
• Carrying necessary medications.
• Using heaters inside your hotel rooms.

Bring an Umbrella

Rainfall in Makkah and Madinah is a rare occurrence, especially during winter months but it doesn’t have a zero probability. So, you should be prepared for it by carrying a portable umbrella. This ensures that pilgrims can easily continue their journey in case of unexpected rain.

Get accommodation near Haramain

Prefer getting your hotel accommodations close to Haramain in Makkah as well as Madinah. It would save you from unnecessary travel from your hotel room to the Mosques and minimize your exposure to cold weather conditions, especially during the early morning hours and evenings.

When performing the holy rituals in winter months, eat a lot of dry fruits, dates and fish. These items will help your body stay warm as well as offer you essential nutrients to continue your journey conveniently.