Businesses in Saudi Arabia are proactively preparing for Ramadan, with increased product offerings and marketing efforts across various sectors, including e-commerce and hospitality. Key initiatives include Amazon’s Ramadan Boxes for charitable donations and heightened retail and online shopping. Hotels are also enhancing iftar offerings to attract customers, underscoring the importance of Ramadan as a period for community engagement and economic opportunity.
In anticipation of Ramadan, businesses throughout Saudi Arabia, spanning the food, beverage, e-commerce, and hospitality sectors, are launching new products and marketing initiatives. Nausherwan Hafeez, Country Manager for Operations at Amazon, reported that essential items such as rice and oil are experiencing heightened demand during this period. The company has introduced “Ramadan Boxes,” providing customers with the option to purchase or donate essential items for iftar, which Amazon will then deliver to local food banks.
The retail sector is also witnessing a surge in demand, as evidenced by Mohammed Majid, Sales Manager of the Economy Saving Center, who indicated that his Jeddah-based store has seen a remarkable 70 percent increase in sales leading up to Ramadan. The retailer is offering an array of Ramadan-themed products, including decorative items and tableware sourced from local brands.
Online shopping has notably increased, with Saleha Ameen, founder of an online store for handmade prayer mats, reporting a 40 percent rise in orders in recent weeks. Customization is a key trend, particularly in personalized prayer mats and symbolic bead designs, reflecting consumer interest during this significant season.
Local food brands are also experiencing a surge, particularly with traditional dishes enjoyed during iftar. Noura Abdullah, founder of the brand Soma, stated, “Ramadan is the busiest month for us, and we see a rise in sales of grape-leaf dishes that are popular during iftar.” The company utilizes innovative technology and data analytics to effectively manage production and adapt to rising demand while maintaining quality.
Goody Kitchen, a digital platform by a major Saudi food brand, has adjusted its approach to engage consumers during Ramadan. According to Noha Baik, Brand Experience Manager, the company has published a Ramadan magazine featuring recipes and cultural stories that emphasize food, family, and tradition. This initiative aims to create a deeper connection with customers during the holy month.
Major hotels are also gearing up to cater to increased demand during Ramadan. Vipin Khattar, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Jeddah, articulated a commitment to enhancing iftar offerings, emphasizing traditional Saudi dishes and leveraging data analytics to align with guest preferences. Incorporating AI-driven guest service tools and mobile check-in is part of their strategic plan.
Monther Abou Alssil, General Manager at Movenpick Hotel Tahlia Jeddah, revealed that the establishment is presenting an Italian-inspired iftar menu and hosting a charity event for individuals with special needs. The culinary experience features traditional dishes from Puglia, Italy, including handmade orecchiette pasta and focaccia Barese, reflecting the Italian heritage while fostering community and generosity during Ramadan.
In summary, businesses across Saudi Arabia are actively preparing for Ramadan by launching new products and adapting services to meet increased demand. Retailers, e-commerce platforms, and hotels alike are innovating to engage customers, emphasizing traditional products, customization, and enhanced service offerings. This multi-sector response highlights the significance of Ramadan as an opportunity for community engagement and economic activity.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
