MAKKAH: Islam’s holiest city, Makkah, is experiencing heightened economic activity ahead of this year’s Ramadan, as markets, shopping centers, and hotels see a surge in visitors, reflecting the city’s dual religious and economic significance during the season.

A field survey by the Saudi Press Agency showed a marked uptick in retail and food sectors, with rising demand for staple goods, dates, Ramadan beverages, and hospitality and decorative items.

Traditional markets and modern shopping complexes have seen brisk activity from residents, expatriates, and visitors, supported by promotional offers launched by numerous businesses to attract consumers.

In the hospitality sector, early bookings for hotels and serviced apartments, particularly in the central area around the Grand Mosque, have increased, with occupancy expected to rise further in the first days of the holy month.

This surge is driven by the arrival of pilgrims and visitors from inside and outside the Kingdom to perform Umrah and prayers at the Grand Mosque.

Transport and logistics services have also been active, alongside intensified preparations by relevant authorities to ensure smooth traffic flow and easy access for worshippers.

Health and regulatory measures have also been strengthened to ensure food safety and service quality.

Ramadan remains one of the most important annual sales seasons, providing a wide range of options for various consumer segments. At this time each year, Makkah experiences a full seasonal economic cycle that supports small and medium-sized enterprises and boosts commercial activity.

The Makkah Municipality has confirmed that it stepped up inspections of markets and retail outlets across the holy city, as part of its field plan to ensure compliance with health and municipal regulations, product safety, and service quality.

Inspection teams, the municipality said, have conducted intensive rounds covering public markets, shopping centers, food outlets, industrial kitchens, and restaurants to verify food quality, storage methods, and hygiene standards, while ensuring establishments adhere to approved rules and regulations.

It added that that these monitoring campaigns continue around the clock, particularly during periods of heightened commercial activity.

The municipal authority also stressed the importance of citizens and residents reporting any concerns through official channels, strengthening community oversight and ensuring the highest public health and safety standards in line with Makkah’s status as a destination for millions of worshippers from within the Kingdom and beyond.

This growing economic activity highlights the vitality of Makkah’s market and its ability to respond to major religious seasons, reinforcing the city’s role as a spiritually and economically vibrant center and a global destination for Muslims during Ramadan.