Planning Umrah with kids over winter break? When to go, how to prepare children, and what New York and New Jersey families should check before booking.
Winter break is one of the few times a whole family can leave together. The weather in Saudi Arabia is also at its most comfortable, which makes a big difference with children and grandparents. Here is how to plan it without the stress.
Why winter works for families
- School is out: you lose fewer school days, and January trips can sometimes fit a longer break.
- Cooler weather: daytime in Makkah is usually warm rather than hot, and Madinah is cooler. Evenings can feel chilly, so pack a light jacket.
- Easier walking: children and older parents handle Tawaf and Sa'i far better than in the summer heat.
Dates to look at
Holiday weeks fill quickly because every family has the same idea. Check your school calendar first, then compare our group dates: December 24 – January 2, December 28 – January 6, and our January groups. All current trips are on our Umrah page.
Documents for children
- Every child needs their own passport and their own visa. Check expiration dates now, since US passports for children under 16 are only valid for five years.
- Children under 18 generally need to travel with a parent or legal guardian who holds a valid visa. If a child is traveling with only one parent, or with a relative, tell us early so we can check what is needed.
- Ask your pediatrician about the meningitis vaccine that Saudi Arabia requires for pilgrims, and do it at least 10 days before arrival. Our first Umrah checklist covers the rest.
- Check Nusuk for permit rules for children when you book, as they can change.
Preparing children for Umrah
- Tell the story first. Hajar and Ismail, the Kaaba and the hijrah make the trip real long before you land.
- Practice at home. Walk seven circles in the living room, and let them try on ihram or modest clothing.
- Keep it short. Teach one simple dua rather than a long list.
- Set a safety plan. Crowds are real. Put your phone number on a wristband or card in their pocket, agree on a meeting point at every visit, and show older kids how to find a gate number.
Choosing a family-friendly trip
Ask these questions before you book:
- How far is the hotel from the Haram, in actual walking minutes?
- Can we get connected rooms, or a room for four or five?
- Does the group leader stay with us for the whole trip?
- How do we get from Makkah to Madinah, and how long does it take?
- If my child gets sick, who do I call?
Packing for kids
- Comfortable broken-in shoes and a small bag for shoes at the mosque.
- Light layers and a jacket for evenings.
- Any regular medication in its original box, plus basic fever and stomach medicine.
- Snacks, a refillable bottle for Zamzam, and something quiet to do on the long flight.
FAQ
Islamically, a child's Umrah is valid but not obligatory. Rules for permits and entry can change, so check before booking, especially with very young children.
Either works. Many families like starting in Madinah for a calmer start, while others prefer to complete Umrah first. It depends on your flights and your group.
Yes. Tell us about any mobility needs so we can choose hotels and transport to match. Wheelchairs are available at the Haram for Tawaf and Sa'i.
Plan your family's Umrah with Amana Travel
Amana Travel has served pilgrims from our Brooklyn office at 507 68th St since 2005. We are IATA/ARC accredited and an authorized EgyptAir agent, and our team speaks Arabic and English.
Message us for this season's packages, or call (718) 491-6456.