Makkah hotels ramp up readiness for this year’s Ramadan season

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Makkah’s hotels are gearing up to receive the millions of people arriving to perform Umrah during Ramadan. (Shutterstock/File)
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Updated 14 March 2024
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Makkah hotels ramp up readiness for this year’s Ramadan season

  • Providers compete to provide the best services to Umrah pilgrims
  • The holy city’s hotels have a high occupancy rate

MAKKAH: Makkah’s hotels are gearing up to receive the millions of people arriving to perform Umrah during Ramadan.
Prices in Makkah’s hotels vary based on their geographical location and their proximity to the Grand Mosque. They also vary according to full or partial views of the mosque, and compete to provide the best services to facilitate the movements of Umrah pilgrims.
Ahmed Al-Maghrabi, director of Swissotel Al-Maqam Makkah, said that the holy city’s hotels have a high occupancy rate and are fully booked at most times during Ramadan. He said that employees at the Swissotel Al-Maqam Makkah, which is located in the Clock Towers area and consists of 1,624 rooms and suites directly overlooking the Holy Kaaba, strive to provide hospitality in accordance with the highest standards.
“We also ensure that guests spend their time during the holy month of Ramadan in a place that combines spirituality and special service. We have been able to reach this efficiency in operation and hospitality through continuous training of our team, applying the best international practices in the field of hospitality and focusing on meeting the needs of our guests with precision and professionalism.”
He added: “The hospitality sector, specifically hotels, is facing various challenges, including the increasing expectations of guests and maintaining a high level of service. We are also working to overcome these challenges through investing in the development of human resources and technology and the continuous training of our Saudi male and female employees who have shown great efficiency and pride in providing services and excelling.
“Hospitality has being running through our veins since ancient times, and we cannot forget the Ministry of Tourism’s continuous efforts in developing national competencies through internal and external scholarships throughout the year. This has contributed and played an important role in elevating the level of services provided to our guests.”
Al-Maghrabi said: “We recognize the importance of Makkah (the holy capital) in the hearts of visitors as a tourism and religious destination, and we are working hard to diversity services to meet the demands and expectations of all segments of visitors, through cooperation with local and international companies. This drives us to invest in comprehensive services that include cultural, spiritual and recreational experiences, as well as logistical services to ensure that all our guests experience an integrated and comfortable visit.”
Abdullatif Althubaity, front office manager at DoubleTree by Hilton, said that most hotels in the central area had reached an occupancy rate varying between 80 and 95 percent over the past years.
He said that one of the most significant challenges facing the tourism sector in Makkah is that the holy city is crowded with large numbers of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. “We strive to provide the highest levels of services to them and enrich their experience, despite the congestion in the streets of the central area. In addition, Makkah attracts all Muslims from around the world, however, there is an urgent need to educate pilgrims and visitors about tourism and religious awareness in Makkah.
“Saudi men and women continue to spread religious and tourism awareness among all visitors and pilgrims, in all languages, he said.
Althubaity also said that they strive to provide services worthy of the level of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims in Makkah, in terms of elevating the services to a high level to provide all means of comfort.
He said: “The services can be diversified to meet all the needs of pilgrims and visitors to achieve Vision 2030, by increasing the capacity of hotels in the vicinity of the Grand Mosque and expanding in the Grand Mosque to accommodate the largest number of Umrah pilgrims, reaching around 30 million Umrah pilgrims and 6 million Hajj pilgrims by 2030.”
Zaid Al-Khalidi, an investor in the hotel sector, said that during Ramadan prices were subject to different factors. “They are determined by several features, most importantly the location, view, proximity, the hotel rating and its location in the central area.”
He said that each room in the central area has a specific price that is raised during key seasons and peak times. The prices cannot be similar to each other; there are prices for groups and prices for online bookings.
He explained that the occupancy rate is high this year, especially since obtaining visas throughout the year is easy via smartphones. This was significantly important to increase the numbers and expand the work of hotels in the central area, around the Grand Mosque and in the rest of Makkah’s neighborhoods.
Al-Khalidi said: “Makkah is distinguished from the rest of Saudi cities as it is home to the largest rate of hotels, which exceed 1,400, most of which are five-star hotels, fully ready with high competencies and professional training. The Makkah region is crowded throughout the year with a varying occupancy rate, but recently, thanks to the thoughtful government’s decisions and allowing a large number to perform Umrah, the occupancy rate has increased and hotels are often fully booked.”
He said that the Haramain train and free buses from the airport had greatly contributed to facilitating the Umrah pilgrims’ journey and reducing congestion. The occupancy rate is expected to reach 100 percent on weekends, and the prices of four and five-star hotels will vary, especially between the hotels in the central area and other areas farther away from the Grand Mosque.


Saudi defense minister, Yemen PM discuss relations 

Updated 06 May 2025
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Saudi defense minister, Yemen PM discuss relations 

RIYADH: Prince Khalid bin Salman, Saudi minister of defense, met with Yemen’s newly-appointed Prime Minster Salem Saleh Bin Braik.

The pair discussed ways to boost Saudi-Yemeni relations, in addition to regional developments and the situation in Yemen. 

”I reaffirmed the Kingdom’s continued support for the government of Yemen in ways that will meet the aspirations of the Yemeni people,” Prince Khalid said in a post on X.

He also conveyed the Saudi leadership’s best wishes to Bin Braik after his appointment as Prime Minister, as well as their hopes for his success and for the stability, security, and prosperity of the people of Yemen. 

Yemen’s internationally recognized government named finance minister Bin Braik as its new prime minister on Saturday.


UNESCO delegation visits North Riyadh Geopark after global network listing

Updated 05 May 2025
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UNESCO delegation visits North Riyadh Geopark after global network listing

  • Destination showcases Kingdom’s natural and cultural diversity, UNESCO official says
  • In April, UNESCO listed North Riyadh Geopark and Salma as part of its Global Geoparks Network

RIYADH: UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Natural Sciences, Lidia Brito, visited North Riyadh Geopark on Sunday, praising the destination for preserving both nature and history.

The UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization designated North Riyadh Geopark in April as part of its Global Geoparks Network, which aims to protect geological heritage sites and promote sustainable development.

Hussam Zuhair Al-Turki, director of the Saudi Geoparks Initiative, and Hamoud Alnughaymishi, director of the Science Sector at the Saudi National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, accompanied Brito during her visit.

They explored significant geological features at the North Riyadh Geopark, including the Abu Shaddad Cave and the Edge of the World cliff. They also stopped to explore Ghamra Village, known for its natural adventure routes on the outskirts of Riyadh.

Brito said that the North Riyadh Geopark showcases the natural and cultural diversity of Saudi Arabia, and will enhance eco-tourism in the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

In April, UNESCO designated North Riyadh Geopark and Salma Geopark as part of its Global Geoparks Network. The Kingdom hopes to register 13 other sites on UNESCO’s network, the SPA added.


Riyadh’s latest group game spot encourages social connection

Pixel Games adds to the Kingdom’s capital’s growing roster of homegrown gaming concepts. (Supplied)
Updated 05 May 2025
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Riyadh’s latest group game spot encourages social connection

  • Center designed to engage people physically, mentally

RIYADH: As Saudi Arabia encourages more active and social lifestyles, a group of young Saudi entrepreneurs in Riyadh has created a space that blends movement, mental challenges, and social connection.

Opened in 2024, Pixel Games is a locally developed gaming center designed to engage people both physically and mentally. It is also a testament to the vision and drive of young Saudis, who are shaping the Kingdom’s entertainment landscape.

Pixel Games adds to Saudi Arabia’s capital’s growing roster of homegrown gaming concepts. (Supplied)

Riyadh has no shortage of entertainment options, and Pixel Games adds to the city’s growing roster of homegrown concepts.

While the founders would like to keep a low profile, they are working behind the scenes to address the local appetite for interactive social spaces that go beyond traditional arcades or seasonal pop-ups.

FASTFACTS

• Activities at Pixel Games range from strategic puzzles to movement-based games, all designed for groups of friends and families to enjoy together.

• Each session lasts an hour, and visitors can reserve private rooms for a more personal experience.

The center features nine themed “moving rooms,” with more than 40 group-based physical and mental challenges.

Riyadh has no shortage of entertainment options, and Pixel Games adds to the city’s growing roster of homegrown concepts. (Supplied)

Activities range from strategic puzzles to movement-based games, all designed for groups of friends and families to enjoy together. Each session lasts an hour, and visitors can reserve private rooms for a more personal experience.

Visitors have responded positively to the experience. Nawaf Aloggayel, a recent guest, said: “The place is beautiful, the games are different and fun, and the prices are reasonable.

Pixel Games adds to Saudi Arabia’s capital’s growing roster of homegrown gaming concepts. (Supplied)

“I advise people to come … it’s the best entertainment place in Riyadh so far.”

Ahmed Al-Ahmed, marketing representative for Pixel Games, said: “Pixels is an entertainment center that gathers challenges and fun into a group of different movement activities.

“Groups can enjoy a private room, which makes it more exciting and comfortable.”

What sets it apart is its year-round availability, making it a go-to spot for spontaneous plans or scheduled outings. It provides a safe and stimulating environment where children can burn off energy, develop problem-solving skills, and socialize with their peers.

Whether you are looking for a quick group activity, a family outing, or a way to try something new with friends, Pixels offers a low-key alternative for playful competition and connection.

 


Biotech program to empower Saudi innovators

General view in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (REUTERS)
Updated 05 May 2025
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Biotech program to empower Saudi innovators

  • The seven-month program offers participants mentorship, capacity development, and networking opportunities with local and international investors and experts

RIYADH: The Ministry of Health has launched a biotechnology accelerator program to empower Saudi innovators in biotechnology and life sciences.

The initiative aims to enhance their scientific and commercial readiness, attract investment, and expand their global market reach, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

It also seeks to boost their contributions to healthcare quality, aligning with the National Biotechnology Strategy and the Health Sector Transformation Program under Vision 2030, which envisions a thriving, innovation-driven economy and a vibrant society with sustainable health and quality of life.

The seven-month program offers participants mentorship, capacity development, and networking opportunities with local and international investors and experts.

It includes workshops, seminars, individual consultations, and a chance to present innovations at the BIO 2025 Conference.

The application deadline is May 8. Interviews and initial selection will take place from May 15-20, with final acceptances announced on May 25.

The ministry continues to advance health innovation and accelerate the progress of promising national projects. It encourages all Saudi innovators, entrepreneurs, and startups to register for the program and inquire via redbiotech@moh.gov.sa

 


Insan spends SR55m on beneficiary families in first quarter of 2025

The society deposited SR27.6 million into families’ bank accounts for basic expenses (cash, clothing, and food). (X @ensanorg)
Updated 05 May 2025
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Insan spends SR55m on beneficiary families in first quarter of 2025

  • Programs aim to meet needs through seasonal initiatives, monthly services, direct assistance

RIYADH: The Charitable Society for Orphans Care in Riyadh, also known as Insan, implemented several programs during the first quarter of 2025 aimed at meeting the needs of families through seasonal initiatives, monthly services, and direct assistance.

Total expenditure on services and initiatives provided during the first quarter amounted to SR55.09 million ($14.66 million), which included basic, seasonal, and other services.

The society deposited SR27.6 million into families’ bank accounts for basic expenses (cash, clothing, and food).

It also deposited SR2,790,600 for the Ramadan Basket Project, benefiting 9,251 families to meet their needs during the holy month of Ramadan, and SR1,060,800 for the Eid Gift Project, helping 5,304 through special gifts during Eid Al-Fitr.

There were more than 21,000 beneficiaries from the Zakat Al-Fitr project during the first quarter, covering their food needs before Eid Al-Fitr, at a cost of SR3.86 million.

The quarterly report issued by Insan highlighted the numerous programs and activities provided by it, including Imaniyat, Pioneers of the Future, Be a Human Compass, Mualham, and Medad.

These programs included developmental and empowerment paths, helping 2,853 beneficiaries.

In line with its commitment to meeting the needs of beneficiary families, Insan provided 7,725 diverse services during the first quarter, including emergency assistance, social and health support, bill payments, housing expenses, furnishing and maintenance, contributions to home purchases, healthcare, and other services. The society spent SR19,773,339 on these services.

It also conducted 1,469 visits to families in the first quarter. These assessed conditions, listened to needs, and identified requirements. The family satisfaction rate reached 93 percent.

In an effort to empower beneficiaries in various fields, the society conducted 436 applications for training, diploma, bachelor’s degree, employment, and project financing.