Saudi Arabia earned approximately seven billion Saudi riyals ($1.9 billion) during this year’s Haj season, up SR 1.5 billion compared to profits from last year, reported Al-Riyadh.
According to local economic experts, foreign currency transactions made up the bulk of trade during this year’s five-day pilgrimage. Earnings came largely from accommodation and transportation fees and food.
Some two million of the world’s Muslims came to Mecca to perform the Haj this year, 1.4 million of which arrived from overseas. These religious tourists divide their time during their stay in Saudi Arabia between prayer and shopping. Once prayers are over, the roads around the Grand Mosque in Mecca are transformed into a giant market.
The Haj is one of the five pillars of Islam, and all able-bodied Muslims who have the financial means are required to make the journey at least once in their lifetime. — (menareport.com)
© 2004 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
