Preperations for one of the world's largest pilgrimages are in full swing and the Movenpick Hotel Makkah has created special benefits to welcome the Haj pilgrims. The hotel, which receives thousands of pilgrims for Haj each year, is a popular choice for guests due to its location in front of the Al Haram and the Ka'ba, along with panoramic views over the Holy Mosque. For the ease and comfort of Haj guests, Movenpick Hotel Makkah has prepared a special amenities kit that will aid pilgrims through their spiritual journey. Each bag contains a siwak stick, an umbrella, a booklet for rituals and stages in addition to a sachet for the Jamarat stones. The hotel has also worked on a structured system to facilitate a smooth check-in and checkout process during this extremely busy period. Furthermore, guests also have access to a prayer hall that can accommodate 3,000 worshippers. “We have already received a lot of reservations for this important event and are looking forward to welcome this year's Haj pilgrims to the hotel,” said Omar Boujlid, General Manager of the Movenpick Hotel and Residence Hajar Tower Makkah. Haj, which is from the 8th to the 12th day of Dhul Hijjah, is the fifth pillar of the Islam. In 2011, 6.9 million people participated in the Haj and religious tourism seized 40 percent of the Saudi tourism, where all hotels in Makkah reached a high occupancy rate of 80 percent during the season. Makkah has been on the receiving end of several important upgrades, including a sophisticated broadcasting network, carefully planned pedestrian routes and the Jamrat Bridge project. In addition to its reputation for hosting Haj and Umra pilgrims, the 1,200-room M?venpick Hotel Makkah is well-known for its dining options and a fully equipped business center. Ideally situated within the Abraj Al Bait Tower, the hotel offers access to five world-class restaurants, a six-storey shopping mall, health club and a prayer hall that are also part of the hotel and residences complex. – SG
