International shipping companies and organizations have experienced a significant commercial boom observers describe as the second busiest season after the annual Hajj departure at the beginning of each Islamic New Year.

The demand for land shipping remains the highest due to its affordability. The Egyptian nationality, in particular, has marked a significant presence in the shipping markets of Mecca. According to dealers, the majority of goods shipped to Egypt include food items, clothing, generators, washing machines, refrigerators, television screens, electrical devices, and household and cooking utensils.

Zaki Hassani, a dealer, mentioned that the shipping prices to Egypt are estimated at three Riyals per kilogram for boxes of various sizes, with fixed prices set at 150, 200, and 250 Riyals. He highlighted that these rates include customs duties, packaging, and delivery within 15 days. "Al-Riyadh" observed that a large portion of the shipments consists of household electrical appliances, which are among the most costly items to ship. For instance, the shipping price for a 32-inch TV screen is 350 Riyals, a 40-inch screen is 550 Riyals, a 43-inch is 650 Riyals, a 50-inch is 850 Riyals, and a 55-inch is 950 Riyals, all inclusive of packaging.

Observers note that the period from the end of Ramadan to the nearing expiration of Umrah visas represents the peak shipping times for Umrah pilgrims. This period also sees a significant influx of Egyptian workers utilizing shipping services to send goods home for the Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha holidays to spend time with their families.

Among the most shipped items by Egyptians, specified at a hundred Riyals, are mixers, deep fryers, microwaves, and water cooling units in various packaging sizes.

Yasser Saleem, a shipping agent, explained that shipping prices are determined by the type and size of the goods and the destination's proximity to Cairo. "Al-Riyadh" tour yesterday revealed that shipping companies and enterprises are strategically located near the residences of Egyptian workers and Egyptian Umrah pilgrims, specifically in neighborhoods like Mansour Street, Islam Square, Otaibiah, and Ghazaoui.

In a related development, the markets of Mecca have seen a recent surge in activity because of the post-Eid al-Fitr Umrah season extending to mid-Shawwal, impacting the wholesale markets for clothing and gifts, as well as outlets selling new and used electrical appliances, refrigerators, and washing machines.

While nearly 10,000 Egyptian workers and technicians were brought in to work with pilgrimage transportation companies, sacrificial slaughterhouses, and other Hajj service companies, the benefits significantly reflect on the annual land shipping markets, as these are the groups keen on shipping their needs from the heart of Mecca. Conversely, shipping carriers take advantage of the return trips to the Kingdom by transporting Saudi needs from Egypt, focusing on household furniture such as beds, wardrobes, dining tables, men's and women's clothing, shoes, and bedding items.

Home appliances remain the most frequently shipped items outside the Kingdom.