The annual Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, officially began on Monday in Saudi Arabia, with more than 1.8 million pilgrims arriving from abroad.

According to Saudi authorities, the number of foreign pilgrims has exceeded 1.8 million, while the flow of believers continues during the first days of the rituals.

Hajj passport force official Saleh bin Saad Al Murabba, said arrivals from abroad have increased significantly despite tensions and insecurity in the region.

Many pilgrims have expressed feelings of gratitude and relief at reaching the holy city of Mecca, where the main rituals of the pilgrimage are taking place.

One of the pilgrims, Egyptian Samya Abdul Moneim, said she feels blessed and happy to have reached Mecca, describing the experience as indescribable.

Hajjilers are braving high temperatures as they perform rituals at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, using umbrellas, fans and water to protect themselves from the heat.

Authorities have imposed special measures in Mina, where worshipers are sheltering in a tent city, while volunteers distribute water and cooling systems to reduce the risk of heatstroke.

In the coming days, pilgrims will move towards Mina and then gather at Mount Arafat, which is considered the spiritual pinnacle of the Hajj. There, the faithful pray for forgiveness and pray at one of the most important moments of the pilgrimage.

The Hajj takes place every year and for many Muslims represents a deep spiritual journey, reflection and repentance. /message

Source: prizrenpost