NOW that the Hajj is over, malls and souqs are packed with pilgrims eagerly picking out gifts for family and friends back home. Giving gifts is a recommended act in Islam, and is believed to soften hearts and strengthen relations between the gift giver and recipient. Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, used to graciously accept gifts, thank the giver and pray for him, and later recompense them with something that was better in value. Here's a selection of some of the most popular gifts from the Kingdom:Zam-zam water and dates A timeless gift for centuries, no Hajji goes home without water from the Zam Zam well in Makkah and the Kingdom's legendary dates. ‘Ajwah dates from Madina are believed to have medicinal properties and there are a whole lot of other mouth watering varieties -- even chocolate-covered ones -- to choose from. Prayer rugs and beadsPrayer rugs and misbahas (beads) are at a premium for the sentimental and spiritual value attached to the holy cities. There' s an amazing variety available: from sumptuously soft and gorgeously woven Turkish prayer rugs and prayer beads made of semi-precious stones to more functional, yet equally precious ware.Abayahs and scarves, thobes and sandalsPlain Saudi-style abayas and long face veils are as much in demand as designer scarves and fancier abayas (both colored and black ones). Saudi-style white collared thobes and unique handmade leather sandals for men are also a nice souvenir to take back. JEWELRY All that glitters is gold as far as jewelry is concerned. Never mind the global economic meltdown, gold souqs continue to see a steady stream of customers and report brisk sales in the post-Hajj period. Traditional silver jewelry is also a good buy, for those interested in variety. INCENSE AND PERFUMES Bakhoor and attar are both sought after purchases. There are a variety of non alcoholic perfumes like ‘Kiswah al-Ka'bah', ‘Hajr-Al-Aswad', ‘Misk Al-Madinah' which are essentially attempts to bottle the scent of the holy cities. Traditional oud, musk, amber and rose based perfumes are prohibitively expensive, but worth it. __
