Shopping in Mecca - authentic goods, best outlets, malls and boutiques

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 court. So if you are alone, you will have to pick up the ordered coffee or sandwiches and leave the room. It is absolutely impossible for men to go into women's shops and for women to go into men's shops. If you know Arabic well and are already prepared to communicate with local sellers, then, alas, you will be disappointed. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The vast majority of Makkah Mall sellers are from Pakistan, Philippines or Bangladesh. So be prepared for distorted Arabic speech and English with the strongest accent. However, this situation is almost in all major stores in the city. But the myth of consistently high incomes of local residents, high prices and an emphasis on chic things is not justified. Makkah Mall on the contrary is more designed for the middle class. Prices are very pleasantly surprised here, especially if the absence of taxes is considered. Zara, Okaïdi, Koton, Chanel are very interesting shops. The Mall is open until midnight. The schedule depends on the prayers but not from the standard European working hours.

If you appreciate the opportunity to leave your child on the playground in shopping centers, it is worth going to Al Hijaz Hotel. By the way, there are also very diverse food court restaurants here. You will be able to get acquainted not only with local cuisine, but also with food from China, Yemen and Turkey. It is worth paying attention to the gold jewelry in Mecca. It should be understood that an attractive price compensates for the monotony of jewelry design. Jewelries are usually massive, heavy, with fancy patterns.

If you do not know how to check the sample of gold, it is better to refrain from buying it in the markets. There is a chance to overpay for a low-quality thing. It is better to visit specialized jewelry stores. There are many such shops in the city. Many women will like the idea of buying handmade soap or a pair of bottles of local oil. Essential oils are also very popular as a base for natural cosmetics in Mecca. You can find it in both markets and pharmacies. If you are looking for a gift for your family, you can pay attention to the sets for aromatherapy.

An oil-based perfume would also be a good purchase. Such perfumes are very persistent and fragrant. Interestingly, the range of women's fragrances is almost less than men's in city stores. Prices on perfume from local firms even lower, than on products from giants market like Dior. Water from the healing spring Zam-Zam can be a more specific gift. This water is got in the main mosque of Mecca. It has been known since ancient times. There is an opinion that it not only perfectly quenches thirst and does not change taste over time, but also has healing properties. If you decide to take healing water to the plane, remember that it will be necessary to hand it in the luggage, but do not leave in hand luggage.

A statuette of a camel will be a good souvenir. "Desert ships" can be found on t-shirts, key rings, magnets and mugs. Soft toy in the form of a camel can be bought as a gift to children. A miniature copy of the Kaaba is a traditional souvenir from Mecca. You can choose a cheaper option of wood or ceramics. A souvenir made of marble, bronze or silver will cost more. Religious paraphernalia like rosaries or ornate Quran is very popular, of course. Hookah will also be a good souvenir. It is not worth choosing cheap options made of aluminum, unless, of course, you consider the hookah only as a beautiful souvenir.