Indonesian pilgrim N. Abdul Aziz, who is in the Kingdom for the sixth time, is satisfied for two reasons — for performing Umrah and for witnessing the way Madinah is growing year after year.

He first performed Haj in 2007. “After my first Haj, I came four more times for Umrah,” he said stressing that he sees changes in the Kingdom every time he comes. “I notice a great difference in each visit. I saw the developments and grand expansion projects in Grand Mosque in Makkah that are still undergoing,” Abdul Aziz said.

From the window of his hotel, Abdul Aziz said he saw the expansion works at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah. “In fact, the two holy cities see a lot of projects and urban renaissance.”

Abdul Aziz said his program includes visiting the Prophet’s Mosque and have the honor of seeking the Prophet’s blessings. He will then visit some historical sites and battle sites in Madinah. Abdul Aziz added that he will then make time to buy gifts and souvenirs like beads, dates, prayer mats, clothes and accessories for distribution back home.

He told Arab News that the Umrah trip from Indonesia cost him around $1,500.