Makkah’s hotel sector is experiencing a remarkable resurgence during the holy month of Ramadan, with room occupancy in central areas reaching 100% marking the highest level since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This boost in hotel occupancy can be attributed to an increase in the number of Umrah pilgrims and the facilities offered by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to accommodate them. Hotel owners and investors have been quick to capitalize on this opportunity by opening their facilities and providing competitive rates.
One of the key factors contributing to the rebound in Makkah’s hotel industry is the Kingdom’s efforts to provide facilities and support for pilgrims from abroad. This has helped attract a higher number of Umrah pilgrims, resulting in a surge in hotel occupancy during the last 10 days of Ramadan. Additionally, the geographical distribution of hotels in Makkah has played a crucial role in accommodating pilgrims, with the new transportation network allowing hoteliers outside the central area to cater to a fair share of visitors.
Furthermore, the high prices of hotels in the central areas of Makkah have led pilgrims to seek more affordable accommodation options elsewhere. Hotel owners in other areas have responded by offering competitive rates, making it more accessible for pilgrims to find suitable accommodation during their visit. This trend has allowed the hotel industry outside the central areas to thrive and contribute to the overall increase in hotel occupancy in Makkah.
