Record 2 million Muslims embark on Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca

For the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began, 2 million Muslims are taking part in the annual pilgrimage to Mecca known as the Hajj.
The Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam that all Muslims are obligated to perform if they are physically and financially able.
Pilgrims follow rituals that commemorate prophets like Ibrahim and Ismail, circling the Kaaba and traveling between holy sites.
The Saudi government takes great pride in organizing the Hajj, though there have been tragic incidents like stampedes in the past.
Muslims spend years saving and waiting for permits to embark on the spiritual journey, which ends with the celebration of Eid al-Adha.