Two million Muslims will gather in Saudi Arabia this week for the Haj as the annual pilgrimage becomes increasingly hi-tech with apps to help the faithful navigate Islam’s holiest sites.
Changing dunes
This year the Haj comes with the ultra-conservative kingdom witnessing an unprecedented pace of change, finally ending a ban on women driving while remaining firm in the face of any dissent.
The ihram
No matter their race or nationality, for every pilgrim Haj begins with “ihram”, the donning of an all-white outfit. For men, this is a seamless tunic worn over baggy pants; for women, a loose dress with only the face and hands exposed.
Fastest-growing religion
One of the five pillars of the world’s fastest-growing religion, the Haj is expected to draw two million people from around the globe this year.
Once-in-a-lifetime chance
Every Muslim is required to complete the Haj at least once in their lifetime if they have the means to do so. Many were visibly moved to be so close to Islam’s holiest site — the Kaaba, a black masonry cube in the centre of Mecca’s Grand Mosque.
Stoning of the Devil
Pilgrims then perform rituals around the Kaaba and on the Mount Arafat plain east of Mecca. The Haj ends with Eid al-Adha, a three-day feast which starts with the “stoning of the devil”.
Ever growing
The Haj presents the Saudi authorities with major logistical challenges. The Pew Research Center says the number of Muslims in the world is expected to rise from 1.8 billion in 2015 to three billion in 2060.
