Mecca is a city of pilgrims. So it is not surprising that local shops are focused on tourists. There are many large and small shops in the city. The number of stores with branded European things is much smaller. It is better to make payments in local shops in Saudi Riyal, which is the national currency. You will have no problem with the exchange. Exchange offices are available both at hotels and local banks and near major attractions in the city. If you are not in a hurry, then look for private exchangers. The course is usually more profitable there than in other places. If you are not in the mood for a walk on the market, then in general it is quite possible not to change the money. You can pay by card. This opportunity is in all major stores. Please note that the country does not support the system of tax-free. An important point that may interfere with the plans of many European people – Friday is a day off in Saudi Arabia. Most shops are traditionally closed on this day. So it is better to plan shopping on any other day of the week. If you want to buy clothes of European and American companies, you should go to Makkah Mall. This impressive two-storey building is very similar to a typical European shopping center. However, Middle Eastern features are characteristic of it. For example, in some stores you will find signs in Arabic and English "only for women", "only for men", "only for families". The sign "only for families" is particularly common in the local food
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