ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the special qualities of tourism in Saudi Arabia and its management, with specific reference to the Hajj. Officials must work with commercial operators in Saudi Arabia and overseas which provide accommodation, transport and other services. The growth trajectory outlined already and possible negative consequences indicate the immense challenges ahead regarding managing religious tourism in Saudi Arabia. The work of agencies such as the Centre of Research Excellence in Hajj and Umrah in data collection and critical analysis is encouraging and, hopefully, will be expanded on in the future. The subject of the Hajj is thus a fascinating one, which merits continued and more exhaustive study to enhance knowledge of the characteristics and consequences of this unique manifestation of tourism and the destination where it is practiced. Issues of religious tourism, the Hajj and tourism development in Saudi Arabia were considered in an earlier article published by the author.
