MAKKAH — As is customary every year during Hajj, pilgrims eagerly seek out souvenirs from the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. These keepsakes symbolize their "journey of a lifetime" and serve as cherished reminders of their spiritual pilgrimage. The market for gifts and souvenirs bought by visitors to the Holy Mosque during the period from Ramadan to the end of Dhu al-Hijjah is estimated at SR30 billion, according to the Tourism and Travel Investment Forum. Among the popular items are prayer beads (sabah), prayer rugs, and Zamzam water. These symbolic items are commonly found around the two holy mosques due to their deep connection to Islamic rituals and the spiritual experience of the pilgrimage. Additionally, many pilgrims are drawn to fragrant products with oriental scents, such as samples of oud oil (known as tolas), blended perfumes, and powders of musk and amber. Incense, henna, and other aromatic items are also sought after. Others prefer lightweight, easily transportable copper accessories inscribed with religious phrases, Quranic verses, prayers, or the 99 names of Allah. Religious gifts are also highly favored, including locally printed Qur'ans from the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Qur'an, which are either distributed for free or sold at nominal prices by some shops. Small bottles of Zamzam water sourced from Makkah are another popular choice. The tradition of acquiring symbolic keepsakes and bringing back gifts is deeply ingrained among pilgrims to the Holy Mosque. Since the pilgrimage is a once-in-a-lifetime journey for most Muslims, they seek to document it by collecting mementos that they can treasure forever.
