SOURCE: Sara International Travel

Pilgrims From All Over the World Travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah -- and Tourism Organizations Are Following Close Behind; Sara International Travel Explains How This Tourism Is Boosting the Saudi Economy

OZONE PARK, NY--(Marketwire - Sep 5, 2012) - GulfNews.com reports that tourism organizations, from booking agents to hotel management companies, are increasing operations in Saudi Arabia in reaction to the surge in pilgrims making their way to the country for Hajj and Umrah. Sara International Travel explains that this boost in tourism is, ultimately, improving the Saudi economy and enhancing the travel options from which visitors can choose.

According to the article, a great deal of demand for improved travel accommodations has been sparked by increased wealth within Islamic countries. The individuals who are making the pilgrimages are able to afford luxury accommodations -- and travel companies are creating supply to meet the demand. According to the article: "The pilgrimage starts with a private jet to an exclusive airport in Saudi Arabia, where passengers are treated to a buffet while travel-company employees process their immigration documents. The visitors are then taken in luxury cars and buses to the InterContinental Hotel overlooking the Grand Mosque in Makkah."

The article asserts that 3 million pilgrims are preparing for the Hajj in October. This increased tourism has created a spike in hotel investment. One of the companies that has invested in property in this region, Blackstone Group's Hilton Worldwide, is looking to more than double its hotel operations in Saudi Arabia. InterContinental will also enhance its presence by increasing its available rooms by an approximate 50 percent. Within the next five years, Hyatt hopes to grow its presence from one hotel to nine.

Ultimately, the article states, "the number of branded hotel beds available [will increase] by 58 per cent in the next few years." For travel booking companies, like Sara International Travel, this will open up new hotels and other accommodations.

"The increase in tourism has proven beneficial for many reasons," asserts Sara International Travel in a recent press statement. "First and foremost, the increased competition allows us to offer better rates to our clients, which they certainly appreciate. Second, it has sparked growth in the Saudi economy. A growing economic landscape will be better able to continue to keep up with not only the needs of pilgrims, but the luxuries that they would like to experience while making their journey."

Sara International Travel is looking forward to this year's Hajj and encourages individuals who are interested in traveling to Saudi Arabia for the event to secure accommodations as soon as possible.

ABOUT:

Sara International Travel offers transportation and accommodation solutions to individuals who are looking to make the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, among other trips. A booking agency, Sara International Travel was founded in 1994 and has provided convenient travel options, superior customer service, and well-developed, comprehensive travel packages to clients in the United Sates, Canada, South America, and the Caribbean. The professionals at Sara International Travel are dedicated to constantly integrating the latest technological resources into their operational procedures, streamlining the booking process and boosting the convenience experienced by clients.

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Sara International Travel: Tourism Associated With Hajj and Umrah Expanding Saudi Travel Resources