Saudi Arabia Set To Gain $8.5 Billion From Hajj

oge okonkwo

August 26, 2014 5:09 PM

Millions of Muslims are hosted by Saudi Arabia annually for the lesser umrah pilgrimage, which may be undertaken at any time throughout the year

According to a study published on Monday, Saudi Arabia could earn US$8.5 billion from this October’s Hajj.

The study also predicted that two million Muslims would make the pilgrimage to Mecca.

It was based on estimates that 1.98 million pilgrims will travel to the holy Muslim city of Mecca, including 1.38 million, or 70 per cent, from abroad.

According to the report, during the 5-day Hajj, a pilgrim from another country will spend an average of 17,381 riyals (Dh17,021) while a domestic worshiper would spend around 4,948 riyals, expenses including housing, food and drink, gifts and phone bills.

Millions of Muslims are hosted by Saudi Arabia annually for the lesser umrah pilgrimage, which may be undertaken at any time throughout the year.

Around six million Muslims took umrah during the holy fasting month of Ramadan in July this year, according to authorities.

As well as Mecca, Saudi Arabia is also home to Islam’s other holiest place – Medina.

oge okonkwo