After long waits, new pilgrims prepare for return of Hajj, the first major one since COVID-19

After long waits, new pilgrims prepare for Hajj's return, the first major one since COVID-19

This year's Hajj is a landmark: the first full pilgrimage after three years when the COVID-19 pandemic sharply reduced the scale of one of Islam's holiest rites. Millions of Muslims from around the world will start converging next week on Mecca in Saudi Arabia to begin several days of rituals.

After long waits, new pilgrims prepare for return of Hajj, the first major one since COVID-19

This year’s Hajj is a landmark: the first full pilgrimage after a daunting three-year period when the COVID-19 pandemic sharply reduced the scale of one of Islam’s holiest and most beloved rites. Millions of Muslims from around the world will start converging next week on Mecca in Saudi Arabia to begin the several days of rituals at holy sites in and around the city. For pilgrims, it is the ultimate spiritual moment of their lives, a chance to s…

‘Now I can die in peace’: After long waits, new pilgrims ready for COVID-free hajj

After 3 years in which pandemic limited attendance and long waiting lists swelled further, Muslims from Gaza, Indonesia and the US prepare for once-in-a-lifetime visit to Mecca

After long waits, new pilgrims prepare for return of Hajj, the first major one since COVID-19

This year’s Hajj is a landmark: the first full pilgrimage after a daunting three-year period when the COVID-19 pandemic sharply reduced the scale of one of Islam’s holiest and most beloved rites.

After long waits, new pilgrims prepare for return of Hajj, the first major one since COVID-19

This year’s Hajj is a landmark: the first full pilgrimage after a daunting three-year period when the COVID-19 pandemic sharply reduced the scale of one of Islam’s holiest and most beloved rites.

After long waits, new pilgrims prepare for return of Hajj, the first major one since COVID-19

This year’s Hajj is a landmark: the first full pilgrimage after a daunting three-year period when the COVID-19 pandemic sharply reduced the scale of one of Islam’s holiest and most beloved rites.