Over 2.5 million Muslims are setting their sights on Makkah, the most sacred Islamic site in Saudi Arabia, to carry out the hallowed tradition of the Hajj pilgrimage. Despite the soaring costs, this year’s congregation could potentially break historical records, setting the stage for the largest gathering in Hajj history.
In the face of rising costs, with the minimum expense for Hajj skyrocketing to 26,000 riyals ($7,000) this year, Palestinian pilgrim Abu Anas Abu Rahal faced limited options for his week-long stay in Makkah. The steep pricing included his overland travel to Saudi Arabia and sharing hotel accommodations with fellow pilgrims.
The 65-year-old pilgrim struggled to meet the expenses despite choosing the most affordable package. “I was asking for a fourth option, with a farther hotel which could be half cheaper. The prices and the choices given are embarrassing, to be honest,” Abu Rahal expressed, recounting that last year’s pilgrims paid the same amount for a package inclusive of flights.
However, despite the challenging economic climate, Abu Rahal and millions of others persevered in fulfilling the sacred obligation. “For the sake of the holy mosque and seeing the Kaaba… everything is worth it, but the economic conditions are really tough,” he stated.
Hajj Amid Inflation and a Pandemic
Unfazed by global inflation and the escalated prices of Hajj services, millions of Hajis [pilgrims] are expected to participate in the 2023 pilgrimage season. According to Saudi authorities, over 1.6 million pilgrims have already arrived, anticipating the gathering, which officially commences on Tuesday.
Hajj, an essential religious obligation for every financially able, non-disabled Muslim, significantly contributes to the Saudi government’s revenue through accommodation, transportation, fees, and gifts the worshippers offer.
The Spirit of Hajj and Umrah
The kingdom generated approximately $12 billion annually from the nearly 2.6 million Hajj pilgrims and an additional 19 million visitors performing Umrah in pre-pandemic times. This different pilgrimage can be undertaken any time of the year.
Despite the high costs, many pilgrims express the overwhelming joy and spiritual fulfilment Hajj brings, ready to buy gifts for their families back home. Alameer Eid Al-Omar, a 52-year-old Egyptian pilgrim, was determined: “Even if I had to sell everything to come (to Hajj), I would have done it… I have been trying for three years already.”
Such devotion upholds a significant Islamic tradition and supports the local economy. Shop manager Abdullah Abbas remarked, “The demand for prayer beads is way higher than in the previous years, including before the pandemic,” thereby highlighting the impact of this influx on Mecca’s merchants.
