Mecca Shopping Tips by marimar_72 Top 5 Page for this destination

street salsman: Taking care of your teeth!!!

In Makkah you will find many salesman(and saleswomen)that sell many item,,this one was selling a local tree branch that is used to clean the teeth(it`s called Miswak)The tree is called Arak in arabic.
Miswak or Siwak is Made from the twigs of the Salvadora persica tree.

We (Muslims)follow the Prophet Mohammad(peace be upon him)by using this to keep our teeth healthy and clean,one small branch costs one Riyal(USD=3.75 Riyals).

You may use it even when you are fasting during the day of Ramadan....it gives your mouth a very fresh smell.
The WHO(World Health oranization) recommended the use of the miswaak in 1986.
Recent studies discovered great positive effect on immunity system.

What to buy: When you want to buy a Miswak,,make sure to pick a soft one,,this means it`s freshly cut.
Also make sure that it has a strong nice smell.

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Khalid Ibn Al Waleed st.: Almost everything you need

Most pilgrims pass this street on their way to the grand mosque.
you can buy al most everything you need,from prayer carpets to sandwiches and juices.

This picture was taken on a Ramadan night right after night prayers.(sorry it`s a bit blurry it was taken by my mobile cam)

What to pay: cheap,,really cheap stuff,all made either in china or india.

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Prayer Carpets and veils

Here is another picture of some shops that sell prayer carpets,veils,perfumes and there is a very useful compas that locates the Ka`aba from any place in the world.

What to pay: cheap prices.

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Souvenirs!

Many retail shops sells small souvenir for you to take,toys,perfumes,praying carpets,bags......ect.
Most of the shops are located within few steps outside the Holy Mosque.

What to pay: Cheap prices.most of them are "buy any item for 1$).or can be 2$

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