After oil, tourism for religious purposes is currently one of the biggest sources of revenue for the  Saudi Arabia. The country has undertaken several initiatives to build more hotels and provide better services to pilgrims who visit Makkah each year, in order to facilitate expanding number of religious tourists.

Alongside government entities, the private sector has been contributing towards the expansion taking place within the hospitality sector, where several travel companies have invested in many projects to receive the growing numbers of pilgrims. Every year during the Hajj season, the Elaf Group of Companies for Travel & Tourism announces its services to facilitate smooth service for Hajj performers through its agents in the GCC, Arab countries, Europe and the Americas. Hajj performers from all markets can continue to expect world class travel and hospitality services from the Group during their stay in the KSA.

“Following a successful Umrah season which recorded a high occupancy rate at our hotels in Makkah and Madina, we have drafted an effective action plan in consultation with our agents in all countries. We predict an increase in the Group’s profits during the current Hajj season in comparison to the last year. We are poised to provide services to more than 30,000 plusHajj performers during the year 1436, which is a reflection of robust demand for our services,” said Ziyad Bin Mahfouz, president of the Elaf Group. He further emphasised that the group issues comprehensive packages, including hotel and flight bookings on airlines that have contracts with them.

Under the Hajj regulations by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj, pilgrims must apply for their visas and arrange travel through approved tour operators in their respective countries. Each agency is issued a certain allotment of visas.

“Last year, we efficiently provided the pilgrims with the best services in all our hotels in Makkah and Madina. Elaf Group has witnessed high demand owing to the comprehensive and distinctive services it has offered in the past and continues to offer. We are steadfast in our commitment to always present our customers with the finest services in line with the highest quality and international standards and will serve the guests of the Sacred House of God,” concluded Bin Mahfouz.