Hajj shoppers boost local economy

[La_Serpiente]

Hajj shoppers boost local economy

Fortified by one of the greatest spiritual experiences in Muslim life, pilgrims returned to more mundane chores on Wednesday, searching the bazaars of Mecca for souvenirs of the annual Hajj.

“I am buying presents to take home like traditional clothes to give relatives and friends but also toys for the children,” said Bawa Enujah from Ghana.

He was considering a plastic water pistol shaped like a machine-gun, but admitted he did not have “enough money to buy gifts for everyone I know.”

The Hajj is an expensive business, with prices ranging from high to exorbitant – an ordinary hotel room can cost $500 a night.

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Hajj shoppers boost local economy