Mecca Hopes to Revive Pilgrim Tourism During Haj

November 3, 2010

Author: Ulf Laessing

Source: Reuters

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE6A259P20101103

Rashed Abdullah displays Oriental perfumes on a glass table to late-night shoppers in his small shop in Mecca ready for what he hopes will be a sales bonanza during this month's haj pilgrimage.

He is confident of attracting customers after fears of a swine flu outbreak kept many away last year.

"This year will be the best. There is really strong demand," he said, standing behind an incense collection in one of dozens souvenir shops around the Grand Mosque in Mecca.