Ramadan 2026 begins around February 19, and thousands of UAE residents are preparing for Umrah, a journey praised for its spiritual rewards. But this year, Umrah packages are more expensive. Travel agents report premium packages costing up to Dh8,000 due to rising hotel rates in Makkah and more global pilgrims. Ticket and package prices vary. Bus tours start from Dh2,250 to Dh3,000, while 5-star packages with flights and close proximity to Haram range from Dh5,000 to Dh8,500. Bus packages now cost around Dh1,200 but may rise over Dh2,000 near Ramadan. Air travel packages begin at Dh3,500 and could reach Dh8,000 depending on hotel choices and dates. Hotels near Haram can double prices during Ramadan and triple in the last 10 days, the peak demand period. Saudi Arabia introduced new visa rules for 2026. Umrah visa validity has dropped from three months to 30 days after issue. Pilgrims must enter Saudi Arabia within a month of visa approval. However, they can stay inside the kingdom for up to 90 days once entered. Booking permits and Rawdah visits requires the Nusuk app. Authorities now require confirmed hotel bookings and return tickets before visa applications, cracking down on unsponsored travel. Important dates: Ramadan 2026 will fall between February and March. Umrah visa applications close mid-March, with entry to Saudi Arabia by early April. Pilgrims should plan to return by mid-April before Hajj logistics begin. Delaying bookings means high costs and fewer rooms, especially for the last 10 nights of Ramadan when prices peak. Travel experts from Desert Wave and Umrahme stress early booking to avoid big costs. Booking 2-3 months in advance may save up to 20% on airfare and secure hotels near Haram. Quad-sharing rooms offered by agencies help families save money but sell out fast. Rising Umrah costs reflect wider regional travel inflation and increased VAT in Saudi Arabia. Despite prices hitting Dh8,000 for premium stays, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and travel bodies offer digital support and 24/7 help to ensure safety. Experts agree 2026 will see record demand, and last-minute plans risk heavy prices or no permits.