MAKKAH — Pilgrims are keen to purchase gifts for family and friends from Makkah and Madinah after performing Haj. Gifts bought from Makkah as a token of remembrance for having carried out the Haj this year reached SR400 million. Many pilgrims purchase a shroud (Kafan) so that their last relationship with this world is something from Makkah, Al-Madinah newspaper reported. All of Makkah's markets are flourishing as pilgrims purchase gifts before they return to their respective home countries. Popular gifts include rosaries, prayer rugs, accessories and certain products that are manufactured in Makkah. Pilgrims from African countries are keen to purchase clothes, dates and carob. Pilgrims from Asia mostly purchase different types of clothes and textiles while Iranian pilgrims are keen to purchase electrical appliances and clothes. Salesmen in the Central Area markets in the vicinity of the Grand Mosque said most stores this year did not make any profit due to the reduced number of pilgrims and the existence of illegal sellers in front of pilgrims' residences in Makkah. Member of the Board of Directors of Makkah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Jameel Al-Qurashi, said pilgrims will spend about SR400 million on gifts this year. He said pilgrims are inclined to purchase gifts from Makkah whether for family or friends or to remember the holy city. “Some are purchased voluntarily while others have been requested by family and friends. Some of the pilgrims believe that gifts from Makkah have blessings. Undoubtedly, Makkah is a blessed land and everything in it is blessed,” he said. “Reports indicate that the clothes markets and stores for rosaries and carpets have thrived this season as pilgrims typically look for goods that are light in weight and cost less. Rosaries with precious and semi-precious stones are favorites,” he added.