DAY OF FORGIVENESS: Muslim pilgrims climb Jabal Al-Rahma (Mount of Mercy) in the plain of Arafat near the holy city of Mecca. Around 2.5 million Muslim pilgrims started moving after sunrise towards Arafat to perform the central rite of Hajj, tracing a journey made by Prophet Mohamed more than 1,400 years ago and following a tradition they believe was laid down by the Prophet Ibrahim before him. The rite of wuquf, or standing, before sunset on Arafat is the high point of the Hajj
(photo: AFP)

More than 1.1 million people are expected in Saudi Arabia for the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. It is one of the greatest events for Muslims.

The pilgrimage has brought Muslims from 180 countries across the world to Mecca.

Every year about two million Muslims travel to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. They often have to travel thousands of miles to get there.

Millions of people arrive in Mecca at the same time so it is important that there is strict security to make sure no one is hurt in the huge crowds.

The Hajj takes place over five days and gives Muslims from across the world a chance to worship together.

From the Sydney Morning Herald January 9, 2006
Photo:AP/Muhammed Muheisen

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