Why April 2026 Works Brilliantly for UK Muslims
Easter Holidays Alignment (April 18-21 + School Break)
Good Friday falls April 18th, Easter Monday April 21st – that’s your 4-day weekend. UK schools run Easter holidays approximately April 6-20 (2 full weeks across most regions). This means you can book a 10-night package from April 10-20 without your children missing a single school day.
What does this mean for Umrah? You can book a proper family trip without pulling kids out of school, no awkward conversations with teachers, no makeup homework, no guilt about disrupting their term. Just proper family time performing a spiritual journey together.
We’ve booked hundreds of families during Easter breaks, and the feedback is always the same: “Why didn’t we do this sooner?” Working parents get to use their annual leave more strategically, grandparents can join without worrying about extreme heat, and teenagers actually engage with the experience instead of complaining about the weather.
Post-Ramadan Peace (Shawwal Month Reality)
Let me clear up some confusion you might’ve seen on other websites. April 2026 is NOT during Ramadan. Ramadan 2026 runs from February 18th to March 19-20th, with Eid al-Fitr falling around March 19-20th. By the time April starts, you’re already 10-12 days into Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan.
This is actually brilliant for three reasons:
The Ramadan rush has cleared out. March is absolute chaos – hotels packed, Haram shoulder-to-shoulder, every corner of Makkah bursting with pilgrims trying to catch Laylatul Qadr. By early April, those massive crowds have gone home. Our April 2024 groups reported Tawaf completion times of 35 minutes during off-peak hours (2-5am) compared to 90+ minutes during Ramadan evenings.
You’re in Shawwal, which carries its own spiritual weight. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said that whoever fasts Ramadan and follows it with six days of Shawwal, it’s as if they fasted the entire year. So if you’re traveling in April, you can perform Umrah AND complete those six fasts while you’re there. Double the spiritual benefit.
Haram access is genuinely easier. During Ramadan, you’re competing with millions for space. In April, you can find spots for prayer without arriving 2 hours early. Elderly relatives can navigate without getting crushed. Children aren’t overwhelmed by the sheer density of people.
Manageable Weather (Not Summer Extremes)
I’m not going to sugarcoat it – April in Makkah is hot. You’re looking at daytime temperatures between 36-39°C, with nights dropping to a more comfortable 24-25°C. But here’s the thing: it’s nowhere near the brutal 45-48°C you’ll face in June, July, or August.
We’ve taken groups in both April and summer months. The difference is massive. In April, elderly pilgrims can still perform Tawaf during midday if needed (though we don’t recommend it). In July, you’re genuinely risking heat exhaustion. April heat is manageable with proper hydration, shade breaks, and sensible timing of your rituals.
Madinah is slightly cooler – expect 21-36°C – which gives you a nice reprieve if you structure your itinerary to start or end there. The key is knowing when to be outdoors and when to rest. Early morning Fajr till about 10am? Perfect. Late afternoon from 6pm onwards? Also fine. Midday from 11am-4pm? Stay in your air-conditioned hotel room.
Week-by-Week Temperature Breakdown
| Period | Makkah Temperature | Madinah Temperature | Rainfall | Best For |
|---|
| Early April (1-10) | 23-36°C | 21-34°C | Less than 5mm | Families with young children, elderly parents |
| Mid April (11-20) | 24-37°C | 22-35°C | Less than 5mm | Easter holidays peak, school families |
| Late April (21-30) | 25-39°C | 23-36°C | Less than 3mm | Heat-tolerant pilgrims, solo travelers |
Six Fasts of Shawwal – Spiritual Timing
This is the bit that elevates April Umrah above just being a convenient holiday timing. Shawwal isn’t just “the month after Ramadan” – it’s an opportunity to multiply your rewards.
The six fasts don’t need to be consecutive. You can spread them across the month, and many pilgrims choose to fast Monday and Thursday while performing Umrah (following the Sunnah of the Prophet). Imagine completing your Umrah rituals, then waking for Suhoor in Makkah, fasting while you’re there, and breaking your fast with dates from the local markets. There’s something profoundly moving about that experience.
Our 2024 April groups included several families who specifically timed their trip to perform both Umrah and their Shawwal fasts together. They said it added a dimension to the journey that pure tourism-style Umrah doesn’t have. You’re not just visiting – you’re actively worshipping while you’re there.
Our April Umrah Packages 2026 – Transparent Pricing
Easter Quick Package (7 Nights, £895)
What You Get:
| Included Item | Details |
|---|
| Makkah Stay | 4 nights in 3-star hotel, 800m to Haram |
| Madinah Stay | 3 nights in 3-star hotel, 1km to Masjid Nabawi |
| Flights | Return from London Heathrow (Manchester/Birmingham +£50) |
| Travel Formalities | Umrah Travel Formalities processing included |
| Transfers | All airport and inter-city transfers |
| Support | 24/7 UK support hotline |
Best For: Working professionals who can take 5 working days off (Wed-Wed), solo travelers, couples without children.
Honest Take: It’s tight. Seven nights means you’re rushing rituals slightly. You’ll complete everything, but you won’t have much downtime. If you’re fit, healthy, and don’t mind a packed schedule, this works. If you want a more relaxed pace, consider the 10-night option.
Example Dates: April 12-19 (captures Easter weekend, minimizes work days off)
Full Easter Break (10 Nights, £1,025)
What You Get:
| Included Item | Details |
|---|
| Makkah Stay | 6 nights in 4-star hotel, 500m to Haram (Al Kiswah Towers level) |
| Madinah Stay | 4 nights in 4-star hotel, walkable to Masjid Nabawi |
| Flights | Return from London/Manchester/Birmingham |
| Travel Formalities | Umrah Travel Formalities processing included |
| Transfers | All airport and inter-city transfers |
| Meals | Breakfast included at 4-star hotels |
| Ziyarat Tours | Optional (additional £45pp for both cities) |
| Support | 24/7 UK support hotline |
Best For: Families with school-age children, first-time Umrah pilgrims, elderly parents who need rest days.
Honest Take: This is the sweet spot. You’ve got time to perform Umrah twice if you want, rest days for shopping or visiting historical sites, and you’re not exhausted by the end. The 4-star upgrade means slightly better rooms and hotel breakfast, which matters when you’ve got kids.
Example Dates: April 10-20 (covers entire Easter school holiday)
Current Availability: 68% booked for April 10-20 window (as of January 2026). We cap groups at 30 families maximum to maintain service quality.
Extended Family Package (14 Nights, £1,250)
What You Get:
| Included Item | Details |
|---|
| Makkah Stay | 8 nights in 4/5-star hotel (Emaar Grand or Voco level) |
| Madinah Stay | 6 nights in 4-star hotel, premium location |
| Flights | Return from any UK airport |
| Travel Formalities | Umrah Travel Formalities processing included |
| Transfers | All transfers + private car option (groups 6+) |
| Meals | Full breakfast + 3 group dinners |
| Ziyarat Tours | Comprehensive tours (Makkah + Madinah + Taif day trip) |
| Insurance | Travel insurance included |
| Support | 24/7 UK support hotline |
Best For: Multi-generational families (grandparents + parents + children), groups wanting extensive spiritual tourism, retirees with flexible schedules.
Honest Take: Fourteen nights is luxury. You can pace your rituals, take full rest days, explore Taif’s cooler mountain climate, and truly immerse in the experience. The hotel upgrade to 5-star options in Makkah means Haram views, better facilities, and genuine comfort. Worth it if budget allows.
Example Dates: April 8-22 (starts before Easter, extends after – less crowded flights)
What’s Actually Included vs Hidden Costs
Let me be crystal clear about what you’re actually getting, because hidden costs are the worst.
Always Included:
- Return flights (economy class) from your chosen UK airport
- Umrah Travel Formalities processing and submission (we handle all paperwork)
- Airport transfers (Jeddah to Makkah hotel, Madinah airport to hotel)
- Inter-city transport (Makkah to Madinah by coach or flight depending on package)
- Hotel accommodation for stated nights
- Checked baggage allowance (23kg, varies by airline)
- 24/7 UK support phone line (0203 504 1818)
- ATOL 12834 financial protection
NOT Included (Additional Costs):
- Ziyarat tours: £45-£95 per person depending on extent
- Meals beyond stated breakfast (budget £15-25 per day)
- Travel insurance: £35-£65 per person (optional but recommended)
- Excess baggage fees if you go over 23kg
- Personal shopping/souvenirs
- Laundry services
The Honest Budget Reality: For a 10-night trip, budget £1,200-£1,400 total per person including the package cost, meals, and extras. Don’t assume the £1,025 package price is your only expense.
ATOL Protection & Booking Strategy
Financial Security (ATOL 12834)
ATOL protection isn’t marketing fluff – it’s the difference between getting your money back if something goes wrong, or losing everything.
Here’s what ATOL 12834 means for you: If Aqdas Travel goes bust before your trip, the Civil Aviation Authority steps in and either arranges alternative travel or refunds every penny. If you’re already abroad and we collapse, they’ll get you home. It’s government-backed protection that non-ATOL agencies simply cannot offer.
We’ve seen competitors advertise cheaper April packages, and when you dig into it, they’re not ATOL protected. They’re operating as Travel Formalities agents or hotel booking services, not as proper tour operators. If they disappear, your money disappears with them. Is saving £100 per person worth that risk? Not for us.
Every April booking you make with us is backed by ATOL 12834. You’ll receive an ATOL certificate within 24 hours of paying your deposit. Keep it safe – it’s your proof of protection.
Best Booking Timeline for Maximum Savings
| Booking Period | Package Pricing | Hotel Selection | Flight Times | Savings vs March |
|---|
| January 2026 | Lowest (£895 7-night, £1,025 10-night) | Widest selection | Preferred times available | Save up to £150pp |
| February 2026 | Rise 10-15% (£985, £1,150) | Selection narrows | Less flexible | Still decent value |
| March 2026 | Jump 25-30% | Limited availability | Restricted options | Last-minute only |
The Math: A family of four booking in January saves £600 versus booking in March (£150 x 4). That’s your spending money for the trip sorted.
Our April 2024 packages sold out by March 15th. We had to turn away 12 families who waited too long. Don’t be that family – book early.
Payment Flexibility Options
Option 1 – Full Payment:
- Pay everything at booking
- Receive 3% discount on total package cost
- Example: £1,025 package becomes £995
Option 2 – Deposit + Balance:
- £200 deposit at booking
- Balance due 8 weeks before departure
- Standard pricing, no penalties
Option 3 – Monthly Instalments:
- £200 deposit at booking
- Remaining balance split into 3 equal monthly payments
- Zero interest, zero fees
- Must book at least 4 months in advance
Example for 10-Night Package (£1,025pp):
- Deposit: £200 (January)
- Payment 1: £275 (February)
- Payment 2: £275 (March)
- Payment 3: £275 (April, before travel)
We process instalments automatically via direct debit (with your permission). No need to remember payment dates – we handle it.
April-Specific Services from Aqdas Travel
Easter Holiday Coordination
We track regional Easter dates (Scotland vs England vs Wales differ) and recommend package length based on your school calendar. Tell us your council area, we’ll optimize dates to minimize or eliminate school days missed.
Example Coordination:
- Your child’s school: Easter break April 6-20
- Our recommendation: 10-night package April 10-20
- Result: Zero school days missed, return Sunday night before school Monday
Departure Day Optimization:
- Weekend departures reduce work days needed off
- Saturday flights typically cheaper than midweek
- Sunday returns get you home with Monday buffer before school/work
We literally have a spreadsheet of UK school regional holidays. Tell us your council area, we’ll tell you the optimal dates.
School Letter Support for Extended Leave
Some families want to extend their trip beyond school holidays. We provide official documentation to support your request.
What We Provide:
- Formal letter on company letterhead confirming your Umrah booking
- Travel itinerary showing dates and purpose (religious pilgrimage)
- ATOL certificate demonstrating legitimate travel agency
- Cultural/educational value statement (optional)
How to Request:
- Email info@aqdastravel.co.uk with subject “School Letter – [Your Booking Reference]”
- Provide school name, headteacher name, child’s details
- We send letter within 2 business days
- You submit to school with formal leave request
Reality Check: Schools aren’t obligated to approve term-time holidays. Our letter helps demonstrate legitimate religious/cultural reasons, but approval is headteacher’s discretion. Success rate varies (faith schools generally more accommodating).
Elderly-Friendly Services (Heat Management)
April heat (36-39°C) challenges elderly pilgrims. We build age-appropriate schedules:
Modified Daily Schedule:
- Fajr prayer at hotel, breakfast, rest until 10am
- Mid-morning Haram visit (10-11am) for quick Tawaf before heat peaks
- Return to hotel, lunch, mandatory afternoon rest (1-5pm)
- Maghrib at Haram, dinner, evening Tawaf (cooler temperature)
- In bed by 11pm
Accessibility Support:
| Service | Details |
|---|
| Wheelchairs | Pre-arranged at both Harams (£15/day rental) |
| Priority Entry | Faster access gates, less queue time |
| Hotel Rooms | Ground-floor or lift-accessible options |
| Transport | Private car transfers (easier than coaches) |
| Heat Safety Kit | Electrolyte sachets, cooling towels, insulated bottles |
| Medical Support | English-speaking doctor lists, 24/7 ground team access |
Real Example: Our April 2024 group included an 82-year-old grandmother with arthritis. We arranged ground-floor room, wheelchair at Haram, and scheduled her rituals for early morning only (6-9am). She completed Umrah comfortably and her family said it wouldn’t have been possible in July heat.
If you’re traveling with elderly relatives (65+), mention it at booking. We adjust everything accordingly.
Departure Options & Travel Formalities Timeline
UK Airport Departures
| Airport | Flight Type | Price Difference | Journey Time | Best For |
|---|
| London Heathrow | Direct (Saudi Airlines, British Airways) | Baseline price | Shortest | Best value, most convenient |
| Manchester | Direct (Saudi Airlines) | +£30-50 | Same as London | North England, Scotland borders |
| Birmingham | Connecting (via Istanbul/Frankfurt) | +£50-80 | +3-5 hours | West Midlands families |
| Regional | Connecting flights | +£80-120 | +4-8 hours | Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff |
Our Recommendation: If you’re within 2 hours of London and travel date is flexible, Heathrow direct flights offer best value and convenience. If you’re Manchester-based or northern England, Manchester direct saves the drive time stress.
Travel Formalities Processing Timeline
Ideal Timeline:
- Book Package: January 2026
- Submit Documents: Within 7 days of booking
- Travel Formalities Processing: 5-7 business days (if documents correct)
- Travel Formalities Approval: Late January/Early February
- Travel: April 2026
Required Documents (Per Person):
- Passport (minimum 6 months validity from travel date)
- 2x recent passport photos (white background, specific dimensions)
- Proof of accommodation (we provide this)
- Return flight booking (we provide this)
- Vaccination certificates (Meningitis ACWY, others as required)
- Marriage certificate (for couples traveling together)
- Birth certificates (for children)
Common Delays:
| Issue | Delay Time |
|---|
| Passport photos wrong dimensions | 3 days |
| Missing vaccination proof | 5-7 days |
| Unclear passport scans | 2 days |
| Marriage certificate not translated | 4-5 days |
Our Travel Formalities approval rate is 98.7% (based on 500+ applications since 2016). The 1.3% rejections were primarily due to incomplete vaccination records or passport validity issues – both preventable with early application.
Absolute Deadline: March 1st, 2026 for April travel. After this, we cannot guarantee Travel Formalities approval before your departure date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is April really post-Ramadan, or do Ramadan days overlap?
April 2026 is entirely post-Ramadan. Ramadan runs February 18 – March 19/20, with Eid al-Fitr on March 19-20. By April 1st, you’re already 10-12 days into Shawwal (the month after Ramadan). Some websites incorrectly claim “Ramadan overlap” – they’re either using old data or confusing 2026 dates with previous years. You won’t catch any Ramadan days in April 2026, but you WILL catch the blessed Shawwal period for those six voluntary fasts.
How do group discounts work for families or friends?
| Group Size | Discount | Example Price (10-night) | Additional Benefits |
|---|
| 4-7 people | 5% off | £974pp (from £1,025) | Must book together, same dates |
| 8-15 people | 8% off | £943pp | Dedicated coordinator assigned |
| 16+ people | 12-15% off | Custom quote | Private services, flexible itinerary |
All group members must book simultaneously, pay deposits within 48 hours of each other. We can’t hold group rates for staggered bookings.
Book Your April 2026 Umrah Today
Easter holidays 2026 create perfect timing: 2-week school break, post-Ramadan peace, Shawwal spiritual rewards, manageable pre-summer heat. Our Umrah packages from £895 ensure ATOL-protected, family-optimized spiritual journeys with 9 years UK Muslim community experience.
For those seeking premium comfort, explore our luxury accommodation options. If you’re planning to perform both pilgrimages, consider our Hajj packages as well.
Take Action Now:
Call: 0203 504 1818 (Monday-Saturday 9am-6pm)
Email: info@aqdastravel.co.uk
Website: aqdastravel.co.uk
ATOL: 12834 (Fully protected)
Early Bird Deadline: February 28th, 2026 for maximum savings. Packages selling fast – April 10-20 Easter window 68% booked.
“In our 9 years serving UK Muslims, April has become the hidden gem for families. Less chaos than Ramadan, better weather than summer, and the spiritual bonus of Shawwal fasts. Our April 2024 groups consistently rated their experience 4.8/5 stars.” – Aqdas Travel Team
