Proactive government efforts to ensure market stability in the holy city of Mecca
With the approach of the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH, government agencies in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia intensified their preparations to ensure a safe and stable consumer environment in Makkah. In this context, the Makkah branch of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, in cooperation with the Ministries of Commerce and Human Resources and Social Development, conducted a joint inspection campaign targeting public markets and shopping centers. This campaign resulted in the detection of 17 various violations related to pricing and the availability of goods.
General context: The importance of censorship during religious seasons
The city of Mecca holds unique religious and economic significance, particularly during peak seasons like Ramadan and Hajj. Millions of visitors and pilgrims from around the world flock to the city, leading to a massive increase in demand for food, supplies, and services. Historically, these periods have posed a challenge to markets, as some merchants may exploit the increased demand by raising prices unjustifiably or offering products that do not meet quality and safety standards. Therefore, proactive monitoring campaigns have become an essential part of the government's annual plans to ensure the protection of consumer rights—citizens, residents, and visitors alike—and to maintain market stability.
The campaign's impact and its local and international significance
These intensive field visits underscore the government's commitment to ensuring fair pricing and preventing any manipulation that could harm consumers. Locally, the campaign aims to reassure Makkah residents that essential goods are available at reasonable prices and high quality, contributing to a stable and spiritually uplifting atmosphere during the holy month. Internationally, these measures reflect positively on the Kingdom's efforts to serve pilgrims, guaranteeing visitors and Umrah performers a safe and fair shopping experience, thus enhancing the Kingdom's reputation as a leading religious destination that provides the best services to its visitors. The stability of Makkah's markets is an indicator of the government's efficient management of major seasons.
Campaign details and observed violations
The Director General of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture branch in the region, Engineer Waleed Al-Daghis, explained that the joint inspection teams focused on verifying the availability and safety of food products and monitoring price stability. He emphasized that the campaign aims to enhance proactive oversight before the peak season to ensure the markets are fully prepared. The 17 violations observed included non-compliance with set prices and other infractions, which were dealt with immediately in accordance with the approved regulations and bylaws. The violating establishments were required to rectify their situations to prevent recurrence. Al-Daghis noted that field monitoring will continue throughout the holy month to ensure an ideal shopping environment for everyone.
