More than 15lac pilgrims visited Saudi Arabia this year for Hajj, the Kingdom’s General Directorate of Passports announced as Hajj 2024 starts today with record number of pilgrims.
The annual pilgrimage consists of series of rites and rituals, some of which follow a specific order, presenting a spiritual, emotional, and physical challenge for the pilgrim.
Hajj Facts
- Hajj takes place annually between the 8th and 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
- Pilgrims walk an average of 5km to 15km per day, traveling between several key locations around Makkah, including Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
- Hajj is a significant event for the Saudi Arabian economy, bringing in billions of dollars annually through travel, accommodation, and other services related to the pilgrimage.
- Only Muslims are permitted to enter the holy cities of Makkah and Medina. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter or pass through these cities.
- Hajj is one of the largest annual gatherings in the world, bringing together Muslims from diverse cultural and geographical backgrounds.
