The spending associated with the fasting month of Ramadan contributes handsomely to expansion of the Saudi economy. The month of fasting, this time spanning from July 20 to August 19, is noted for enticing a large of visitors to the Grand Mosque in Makkah for Ramadan Umrah. In fact, a significant amount of money is projected to be infused into the Saudi economy during the last 10 days of Ramadan, the most common period for pilgrims to visit the holy shrines other than the annual Haj. The period coincides with revelation of the holy Quran.
If any, visitors are complaining of costs relating to the prices of hotels and transportation. On average, prices tend to increase up to 30 per cent in Ramadan compared to Umrah performed at other times of the year. Prices for a 10-day visit range between $9,300 (Dh34,150) to $24,000 largely depending on choice of residence for those insisting on staying at hotels and residences near the Grand Mosque.
Arguably, Haj and Umrah authorities in Saudi Arabia are against the idea of intervening or fixing prices. They rightly contend that the period is high time for business, with investors in Makkah looking forward it to reap maximum profits.
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