Surge in Umrah Interest Among UAE Residents
Interest in Umrah Surges by 150%: UAE Residents Reflect on Moments of Gratitude and Devotion
In the United Arab Emirates, the demand for Umrah has shown a dramatic increase in recent months. During October and November, the number of bookings rose by more than 150% compared to the summer period, and experts predict that this number may continue to rise in December due to end-of-year holidays.
Reasons for Increasing Interest
Umrah, a unique spiritual journey for Muslims, becomes especially popular during the winter months among UAE residents. Due to milder weather and year-end holidays, many people decide to visit the Holy Cities of Mecca and Medina during this period.
"When winter arrives, many residents plan their spiritual journey due to the cooler weather. The numbers are significantly lower during the summer months," said Shihab Parwad, a representative of Rehan Al Jazeera Tourism.
Importance of Booking in Advance
Due to the increased demand, travel agencies urge interested individuals to book their packages in advance. The demand for Umrah increases further at the end of the year, especially during the early and late December holidays. Tour operators suggest that advance bookings ensure residents find packages that meet their needs.
"Umrah is not only a religious obligation but also a profound spiritual experience, regarded by many as one of the most memorable moments of their lives. Planning the journey in advance guarantees that participants make the most of this special period," Parwad added.
Significance of Umrah for UAE Residents
In the multicultural community of the United Arab Emirates, Umrah holds a special place. For Muslims living here, this journey is not only a religious commitment but an opportunity to deepen their faith and get closer to God.
A recent survey indicated that the majority of those who chose the journey reported deep feelings of gratitude and devotion. "The feelings experienced during Umrah are hard to put into words. Visiting the holy sites makes one feel grateful for everything received in life," shared a UAE resident who recently returned from Umrah.
Packages and Costs
Despite the increased demand, travel agencies strive to offer affordable packages. Costs generally include flight tickets, accommodation, and transfers to Mecca and Medina. A basic package costs around $800–1,200, but luxury options can be twice as expensive.
Tips for the Journey
For those planning their first Umrah trip, the following tips may help:
1. Book early: Due to high demand, the best accommodations and packages run out quickly.
2. Prepare for the weather: Although winter is cooler, it can still be warm during the day in Mecca and Medina.
3. Understand the rituals: Every step of Umrah has profound spiritual significance. It's worth studying the rituals in advance.
Summary
The explosive growth in demand for Umrah demonstrates that spiritual journeys remain of paramount importance for UAE residents. Besides the religious experience, the journey offers an opportunity for gratitude and self-reflection, making the experience even more special. Travel agencies note that as the end-of-year holidays approach, interest will continue to rise, making timely booking essential for those interested.
