Millions of Muslims from across the world are arriving this week in Saudi Arabia. That’s for the annual pilgrimage – known as the Hajj. The focus is Mecca and that spells a business boom for the holy city. The ten-day pilgrimage is expected to bring in around 14 billion US dollars. “Sales are at their highest during the Hajj. We make at least 40 percent more than in any other time of the year,” said a local merchant.
Around 2 million people are expected in the city. Many stay for up to a month. So vendors prepare, way before the first pilgrims arrive. As demand soars, prices follow. Taxis usually get paid three dollars. Now it is ten at least. And for hotels, a moderate-size room could cost up to 25,000 US dollars for five nights.
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