MECCA : More than 1.5 million Muslims from across the world began arriving in the holy city of Mecca on Monday as the annual Hajj pilgrimage officially got underway under heavy security arrangements.
Pilgrims dressed in white robes filled the massive tent city of Mina after performing the “tawaf” — walking seven times around the Kaaba at Mecca’s Grand Mosque.
Worshippers arrived by buses and on foot as Saudi authorities managed one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
This year’s Hajj comes amid heightened regional tensions following recent Iranian attacks on Saudi Arabia and Gulf nations. Despite the situation, Saudi officials confirmed that more pilgrims from abroad participated in this year’s pilgrimage compared to 2025.
Saudi Arabia also demonstrated its security preparedness ahead of the pilgrimage season. A video shared by the Saudi defense ministry showed advanced air defense systems deployed around the outskirts of Mecca.
“The air defense forces are responsible for protecting the skies over the holy sites and dealing with all aerial threats, ensuring the safety and peace of mind of the guests,” the ministry said.
The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam and must be performed at least once by Muslims who are physically and financially capable.
During the pilgrimage, male worshippers wear a seamless white garment symbolizing equality and unity among believers, while women wear loose-fitting dresses exposing only their faces and hands.
After completing tawaf, pilgrims walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa before heading to Mina, located around five kilometers from Mecca, ahead of the main ritual at Mount Arafat.
The most significant moment of Hajj will take place on Tuesday at Mount Arafat, where Prophet Mohammed is believed to have delivered his final sermon.
“I have wanted to perform the pilgrimage my entire life, for 40 or 50 years,” said 68-year-old Moroccan pilgrim Jreish Mohammed. “And this year, my dream came true.”
Saudi authorities said extensive preparations have been made to ensure pilgrims complete the holy journey safely, peacefully, and comfortably throughout the Hajj season.
