MAKKAH: The under-construction buildings and public service offices in Makkah have turned into shops and retail outlets. During every Haj season Makkah is transformed into a huge market as pilgrims coming from across the world buy souvenirs for their family and friends. Those selling goods in such markets sometimes prefer to stay away from the eyes of authorities since the profits they make in these businesses are hefty and could be challenged. Arab News visited various areas and interviewed a number of expatiates who rented unauthorized areas in Makkah during this Haj season.
Ahmad, a Yemeni expatriate rented a location at a building that is still under construction and started selling clothes to pilgrims. “I rented this area for SR6,000. I managed to get electricity in the location and started selling my products that I bought from Jeddah,” said Ahmad, adding that he benefits a lot from this business and he has been doing it for years.
“I buy one thobe for SR10 and sell it for SR30. I work hard every Haj season and relax the rest of the year. I examine the location first before renting it. I check on the type of pilgrims living nearby and buy the products that they may be interested in.”
Shafi Husain from Bangladesh rented a public service office for SR7,000 and started selling different machines and products that many pilgrims would like to buy. Along with his friends, Husain works in shifts to make the most of this Haj season.
Igbal Ali, who also rented a location in a building that is under construction at the central area with the help of his sponsor, said that he only offers products that can be easily bought. “I set aside the money from my salary for this business. I have paid SR7,000 for renting the area and SR6,000 for buying the products. All the products are sold at a low price that does not exceed SR5 per piece.”
Another expatriate, who preferred to remain anonymous, said he paid SR10,000 for one month starting from Dul Qaada to Dul Hijjah as rent for the place. “I managed to get electricity connection for SR100. I am selling products that would not cost much since that is what pilgrims prefer. I have been doing this for two years now. I had no idea earlier that I can make so much profit through this business.”
