Cheap Shopping in Makkah: Best Budget Markets and Shopping Tips for Pilgrims

The act of shopping while in Makkah is an essential part of both the Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages. Every year millions of pilgrims travel to Makkah so that they can purchase Islamic gifts such as prayer mats, dates, Abayas, perfumes and other souvenirs to give to family and friends. The great news is that Makkah has many different shopping options available that provide quality merchandise at very low prices.

Affordable and cheap shopping in Makkah is possible when you know where and how to shop smartly; there are many types of shopping venues from traditional marketplaces to modern day shopping malls.

Why Shopping in Makkah Is Popular

Makkah attracts millions of pilgrims who have travelled from countries around the world to pray at the Grand Mosque (Haram) and to perform pilgrimage activities during the annual Hajj; because of this, there is a great deal of demand for merchandise that caters to pilgrims, both Muslim and non-Muslim alike.

Since there are so many pilgrims in Makkah, there are many local shops/malls that sell all types of merchandise specific to the Islamic community, as well as Arabic perfumes, traditional Saudi clothing, and religious gifts.

Most pilgrims prefer to do their shopping in Makkah rather than in their home country for several reasons:

• The vast majority of merchants sell their products at competitive prices

• Most Islamic merchandise found in Makkah can be trusted to be authentic

• By purchasing in bulk, pilgrims can take advantage of volume discounts

• Many traditional Saudi goods are available in Makkah

There are various markets (vs luxury shopping malls) throughout Makkah to shop for bargains.

Where To Shop Cheap In Makkah?

Souq Al Hijaz

One of the most popular budget shopping areas in Makkah is Souq Al Hijaz. There are many affordable items, such as abayas, prayer caps/tasbeehs, prayer rugs, and gifts available.

Most pilgrims shop at this souq because it offers lower prices than the luxury malls closest to the Haram. There is also plenty of opportunity for negotiating prices at this souq.

Al Diyafa Mall

Al Diyafa Mall is a very modern shopping centre with a large number of shops that cater to budget shoppers. This mall has clothing, shoes, electronics, perfumes, and luggage at competitive prices.

There are also several supermarkets and food courts located in Al Diyafa Mall which is very convenient for families.

Makkah Mall

Although there are many international chain stores located within Makkah Mall, Makkah Mall shoppers will still be able to take advantage of discounted offers at seasonal sale events. Many of the stores within the Makkah Mall will have cheaper price options available on clothes, bags and other accessories.

Additionally, pilgrims who are coming to Makkah to perform the Hajj pilgrimage during Ramadan will have to do their price comparisons very carefully before making purchases because the demand will be extremely high during this period.

The Aziziyah district is well-known for its affordable shopping and affordable restaurants. Many pilgrims will stay in this district because they can find both hotels and shopping opportunities at lower prices than what is typically found in the central Haram districts.

Merchandise offered at the Aziziyah market include:

• Inexpensive abayas

• Ihram clothing

• Dates

• Arabic perfume

• Necessities for traveling

Sometimes by making a bulk purchase you can even get additional price discounts.

Popular Cheap Items to Buy in Makkah

Dates

Dates in Saudi Arabia have remained a highly sought-after commodity in the Holy City of Makkah. Specifically, Ajwa, Mabroom, and Safawi are highly popular amongst those that perform pilgrimage (i.e. Hajj and Umrah).

Purchasing from wholesale retailers can provide significant savings versus purchasing dates from hotel/city center-based retail outlets.

Prayer Mats/Tasbeeh

Many pilgrims buy prayer mats, tasbeeh and Qurans as traditional gifts to those that could not make the pilgrimage to the Holy City. There are numerous shops around Haram and Aziziyah providing very competitive prices.

Abayas/Hijabs

Women can find large selections of modern, stylish abayas (i.e. traditional female dress) with great value in the various markets in Makkah. Simple, day-to-day style abayas can typically be purchased for a fraction of the price if purchased at local markets versus high-end boutique-type retailers.

Arabic Perfumes

Traditional Arabic attars (i.e. perfumes) and Oud (i.e Wood) fragrances are accessible throughout Makkah. Numerous smaller-size retailers of Arabic fragrances can provide consumers with better prices than larger branded retailers.

Smart Shopping Tips in Makkah

Compare Prices First

Prices are drastically different depending on which store you visit; hence, it’s wise to go to multiple locations before spending big bucks.

Be Polite When Bargaining

In most traditional markets, bargaining is commonplace. A polite negotiator can save a pilgrim money when making a bulk purchase.

Don’t Shop at Peak Times

Traditional markets will be extremely busy right after prayer and weekends. When you shop during non-peak times, you will have an easier time comparing prices and walking around.

Bring Cash

Most smaller stores prefer cash payments. It’s also helpful to have Saudi Riyals on hand to eliminate payment problems.

Check Quality of Product

Always check that products are properly stitched, packaged, or still have an expiration date before you buy something.

Best Time for Cheap Shopping in Makkah

The four main seasons for seasonal sales in Makkah are:

• During Ramadan.

• During the months following the Hajj pilgrimage.

• Around the celebration of Saudi National Day.

• During end-of-year clearance sales.

Prices will be higher near the Holy Mosque/Haram due to the influx of people during the Hajj, and therefore will also be higher at that time.

To conclude:

With some planning (and wise purchasing decisions), you can find ways to shop affordably while visiting Makkah during Ramadan, the Hajj, and throughout the year. Some large shopping centers in the city include the Souq Al Hijaz, the Aziziyah Market and the Al Diyafa Mall. Purchasing Islamic items, dates, perfumes, abayas and souvenirs at these shops will enable you to do so without going over your budget.

Shopping in Makkah is a shopping experience to remember, as it provides lasting memories of this spiritual pilgrimage to the holiest city in Islam.