Performing Umrah during Ramadan is considered more preferable than other months. According to the Hadith, performing Umrah during this month is equivalent to Hajj, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Umrah during Ramadan is equivalent to Hajj.” For American Muslims who are planning to perform Umrah in Ramadan 2026, careful preparation is important. From visas and flights to fasting and health tips, organizing everything in advance can make your journey much smoother and more meaningful. This small guide will tell you the main things you need, so you can go with a calmer and ready heart.
Understanding the Timeline: Ramadan 2026
Ramadan 2026 will likely begin on Tuesday, February 17. Our Islamic calendar always moves 10-12 days earlier than the regular calendar each year, so it's best to plan ahead. If you book your flights, hotels, and visas early, your Umrah during Ramadan can be easier, less stressful, and, God willing, more blessed.
Before you travel - Easy things
Umrah Visa
For Americans, obtaining a valid Saudi visa is now very easy. You can make an e-visa online, sometimes ready in 1-3 days. For Umrah, you should also use the Nusu app to get the permit and book the rituals. Don't wait until the last minute, because everything fills up rapidly in the blessed month of Ramadan.
Umrah Flights
From major airports like New York, Chicago, Washington, Los Angeles, you can get direct and stopover flights to Jeddah and Medina, and both options are available at good prices. A direct flight from the east coast is 11-12 hours. From the west coast, it is longer, maybe 16-18 with a stop. The prices of these flights are starting to increase when Ramadan comes. It is better to book a few months in advance like in the off-season. This can save you several hundred dollars.
Umrah Hotels
The last ten nights of Ramadan are the busiest. Hotels near the Haram are sold out many months before Ramadan. Small hotels near the Grand Mosque cost $200-250 per night, large hotels cost $500 or more. If you book early, you’ll be staying close and saving energy while fasting.
Umrah Packing
The weather is pleasant (light warm in the daytime) from February to March, around 75–86°F. Bring light clothing, good walking shoes, as you’ll be walking several steps inside the Haram each day. Bring a power adapter for Saudi plugs, unscented soap and shampoo (for Ihram), and a small Quran or Tasbeeh.
Getting an Insurance for Umrah
Saudi health insurance is required, and good travel insurance is also a good idea. It helps if your flight is delayed, your luggage is lost, or you need a doctor.
Health and spiritual preparation
Drink water
The body dehydrates after fasting. Try to drink 2–3 liters between Iftar and Sehri. Electrolyte packs are also good to carry.
Jet lag
Saudi time is 7–10 hours ahead of the U.S. If you adjust your sleep pattern slightly before you travel, you’ll feel better for Taraweeh and night prayers.
Perform worship during quiet times
Tawaf and Sa’i are very heavy during busy times. Many pilgrims from the USA find the night after Taraweeh to be more peaceful and cool.
Food
Ramadan buffets are delicious but heavy. Simple food is better: dates, soup, some chicken or fish, fruit. Too much fried food will slow you down.
Prepare your heart
Not just the travel plan, but also the spiritual one. Write down your prayer list before you go. Reread the steps of Umrah. Spend more time on the Quran and Dhikr. Remember, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said that Umrah in Ramadan is like Hajj with it - a great blessing.
From arrival to departure
At the airport
Jeddah airport is very busy, with millions of pilgrims arriving. Immigration lines can be long. E-visa, Nusuk permit, hotel bookings can be done both by phone and paper.
Transportation
The distance from Jeddah to Mecca is 90 minutes. Taxis or shuttle buses are safe. Uber and Careem also work. If you are a family or group, rent a van first, it might be cheaper.
And if you are alone, the best option is the train, which takes you from Mecca to Medina in about two and a half hours, which is a cheap and very comfortable option.
Crowds
The Haram can be very crowded during the last ten nights, millions of people. If it is very crowded, do the Tawaf late at night or mid-morning. To avoid the large crowd at the Haram during the last 10 days of Ramadan, many travelers also go for Umrah during the first days of this blessed month. In 2026 (upcoming year), Ramadan will start at February 17. To go for Umrah in February, travelers can avoid the large crowd at the Haran during the month of Ramadan.
Dress and etiquette
For Men
Two white clothes, no stitching.
For Women
Modest, loose clothing with a hijab. Neutral colors are good.
Always smile, say Asalaam Alaikum, and make way for elders or families. Small kindness brings big blessings.
Departure
The airport is very crowded after Eid. Arrive 4-5 hours before your flight. Have your documents ready. Be patient, lines can be slow.
Conclusion
Umrah in Ramadan is a great blessing for Muslims. During this holy month, you fast, pray, and perform Umrah - a great reward in the sight of Allah, just like Hajj. If you start preparing a little earlier, i.e. three to four months in advance, and take care of your health, this journey will definitely be much easier for you, God willing.