MECCA, SAUDI ARABIA – Thousands of Muslim pilgrims performed the sacred Tawaf, circling the Kaaba at the Grand Mosque in Mecca on Sunday, as they prepare for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
Dressed in simple Ihram attire, devotees moved in unified, counterclockwise processions around the Kaaba – the holiest site in Islam – offering prayers and seeking spiritual renewal ahead of the main rituals.
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and a religious obligation for every physically and financially capable Muslim at least once in their lifetime. The pilgrimage follows the footsteps of Prophet Muhammad and draws millions of participants from across the globe, symbolising unity, equality, and devotion.
This year’s Hajj will take place during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah. The rites officially begin in the coming days, with the climax expected around Eid al-Adha, which falls next week and marks the culmination of the pilgrimage.
Because Hajj follows the lunar Islamic calendar, its date shifts approximately 10–11 days earlier each solar year, causing it to move through different seasons over time.
Saudi authorities have made extensive preparations for this year’s Hajj, deploying thousands of security, health, and logistics personnel to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the massive event.
The scenes of worshippers performing Tawaf come as pilgrims continue to arrive in Mecca, with many expressing deep emotion at fulfilling a lifelong spiritual goal.
Source: Reuters
