Raffles Makkah Palace, Saudi Arabia

This impressive two-storey building is very similar to a typical European shopping center. However, Middle Eastern features are characteristic of it. For example, in some stores you will find signs in Arabic and English "only for women", "only for men", "only for families". The sign "only for families" is particularly common in the local food court. So if you are alone, you will have to pick up the ordered coffee or sandwiches and leave the room. It is absolutely impossible for men to go into women's shops and for women to go into men's shops. If you know Arabic well and are already prepared to communicate with local sellers, then, alas, you will be disappointed.

The vast majority of Makkah Mall sellers are from Pakistan, Philippines or Bangladesh. So be prepared for distorted Arabic speech and English with the strongest accent. However, this situation is almost in all major stores in the city. But the myth of consistently high incomes of local residents, high prices and an emphasis on chic things is not justified. Makkah Mall on the contrary is more designed for the middle class. Prices are very pleasantly surprised here, especially if the absence of taxes is considered. Zara, Okaïdi, Koton, Chanel are very interesting shops. The Mall is open until midnight. The schedule depends on the prayers but not from the standard European working hours.
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