Ramazan rush results in soaring Umrah fares

Airfares for Umrah have soared up with the start of Ramazan, as airlines raised ticket prices amid a spike in demand amid the holy month. Business-class fares have been pushed up to nearly Rs500,000 and economy tickets to Rs200,000.

According to reports, the price increase happened after Ramazan moon sighting as pilgrims rushed to perform Umrah during the holy month.

The first 10 days of Ramazan traditionally bring a rise in pilgrim numbers, with demand expected to grow further in the second and third phases, prompting airlines to revise fares upward.

Economy and economy-plus tickets that previously cost between Rs130,000 and Rs140,000 have now climbed to roughly Rs180,000–200,000. Business-class fares, earlier ranging around Rs440,000–450,000, have reached about Rs500,000.

Travel agent Muhammad Ayub attributed the increase to seasonal demand; he noted that most flights are already fully booked and remaining seats are being sold at higher rates set by airlines.

Pilgrims say the surge is forcing difficult financial decisions. One traveler reported that his family purchased tickets two months ago for about Rs130,000, while a relative who booked recently paid Rs180,000 for the same route.

Travel experts advise pilgrims to book seats in advance to avoid peak-season rates, as fares are expected to remain elevated throughout the remaining weeks of the holy month.