August 14, 2019
Arabia Saudí
1146 x 858 px
August 14, 2019
Arabia Saudí
1146 x 858 px
Managing the uninterrupted flow of pilgrims and ensuring their safety during the so-called Hach, one of the largest religious concentrations in the world, represents a huge logistical challenge for the Arab kingdom. About two million faithful, whether foreigners or residents of Saudi Arabia, will perform the Hach this year, according to local press. Hash is one of the five pillars of Islam, which every Muslim must fulfill at least once in his life if he has the means to do so. Mecca, located in a desert valley and whose access is prohibited to non-Muslims, houses the Kaaba, a cubic structure covered by a black cloth with gold embroidery in the heart of the Great Mosque and in which direction Muslims pray five times a day. The pilgrims saw the rain that precipitated part of the pilgrimage as a blessing, as Muslims believe that prayers are answered more during storms. Throughout the stage of the journey to Mecca, volunteers assist pilgrims, guiding them with maps and providing them with water and repair in the face of severe storms, although technology and especially smartphones have been the best assistance for travelers in recent years.
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