Record-Breaking Hajj Pilgrimage Commences in Saudi Arabia

Embark on a sacred journey as the Hajj pilgrimage commences, drawing millions of Muslims from around the world to the holy city of Mecca. The sacred Islamic pilgrimage, Hajj, commenced in Mecca, Saudi Arabia on Sunday, where over 2.5 million Muslims, garbed in traditional white attire, congregated to circle the Kaaba. This annual religious event is expected to set new records as the largest Hajj pilgrimage ever, according to officials from the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

The surge in attendees comes as Saudi Arabia has completely lifted the coronavirus pandemic restrictions that had been in place since 2020. This signifies a sharp increase from the attendance restrictions in recent years—10,000 pilgrims in 2020, 59,000 in 2021, and a cap of one million in 2022.

Among the attendees was Abdelazim, a 65-year-old Egyptian man who told AFP that he was living “the most beautiful days of my life.” He saved for 20 years to gather the $6000 required for the pilgrimage.

After completing the tawaf, the ritual of circling the Kaaba, the pilgrims will journey to Mina, a city located 8 kilometers from Mecca’s Grand Mosque. From there, they will assemble at Mount Arafat, revered as the location of Prophet Muhammad’s final sermon.

Authorities are well-prepared for the pilgrims’ arrival at Mina, with food provisions and security measures in place. Despite the nearly 45-degree Celsius heat, over 32,000 health workers and a fleet of ambulances are poised to tackle potential cases of heatstroke, dehydration, and fatigue.

Considered one of the five pillars of Islam, Hajj is a religious obligation for all financially and physically capable adult Muslims. The physically and emotionally demanding journey is believed to purify adherents of their sins, strengthening their spiritual connection to God.

Read this: Tips for Planning A DIY Hajj Trip

Hajj is observed from June 26 to July 1 this year, with the celebration of Eid al-Adha set to occur on June 28.

Despite the high cost of the pilgrimage, it continues to evoke hope among Muslims worldwide, including those living in war-torn, poverty-stricken, or occupied territories. Pilgrims from Gaza, northwestern Syria, and even Yemen, which witnessed its first direct flight to Saudi Arabia since 2016, joined this year’s Hajj, often after years of saving to afford the spiritual journey. The Hajj Pilgrimage Commences spiritual enlightenment, unity, and blessings to all those embarking on this profound pilgrimage.