Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal said yesterday that Souk Okaz will be opened under the aegis of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah on Sept.11.
The governor said in a committee meeting this week that he would give full attention and do his utmost to return Souk Okaz, located in Taif, to its proper place, where it had been a long time ago.
King Abdullah requested the rebuilding of Souk Okaz streets after they had been abandoned for more than 1,000 years.
“The start looks encouraging, although the project is not an easy one.
“We still consider ourselves in the beginning of the experience. There will be a meeting to reconsider and evaluate what has been accomplished from the project and to plan the market’s future,” said the king. He expressed his satisfaction about establishing the Souk Okaz tent this year, which shows the market is interested in tourism and trade that will serve the economy.
The market will be a forum for exchanging economic, intellectual and cultural affairs.
Through attending these forums, the folk art presented in the region will compete with the rest of the Kingdom’s areas and provinces.
Prince Khaled requested the residents and the younger generation to get involved in the project and be part of the ceremonies.
“This market isn’t about exchanging goods only, but about cultural and intellectual exchange as well. It’s a location that will attract tourists from all around the Kingdom.
“We are still in the beginning,” he continued. “We are open to suggestions and will make sure everything is accomplished. And Insha Allah, this project will expand until reaching the highest level of ambition,” said the prince, adding that the main advantage of this market was for the local citizens to use it.
Head of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) Prince Sultan bin Salman answered several questions on whether the market’s land would be available for investment.
