What is the purpose of Hajj in Islam?

The hajj is a pillar of Islam, required of all Muslims once in a lifetime. It is a physically demanding journey that Muslims believe offers a chance to wipe clean past sins and start anew before God. Pilgrims seek to deepen their faith on the hajj, with some women adopting the head covering known as the “hijab.”

How does Hajj bring you closer to God?

The pilgrimage shows self-discipline and fulfils a religious duty, bringing Muslims closer to God. Some hadith agree that sins are cleansed by the journey: He will return as if he were born anew (Sahih al-Bukhari 26:596).

Why do Muslims come together for the Hajj?

Muslims come together to celebrate His praises, ask for His forgiveness and demonstrate unity for His sake alone. Throughout the Muslim world, Hajj has come to symbolise unity. Although Muslims may be disunited due to many outside influences, such as money, politics, border disputes or other worldly concerns.

Where does the Hajj take place in Saudi Arabia?

Hajj is a pilgrimage to the city of Makah in Saudi Arabia. At the mosque and in the surrounding area, Muslims perform prayers and rituals. Hajj is an obligatory act performed once in a lifetime by all mentally, physically, and financially able Muslims.

Is the Hajj pilgrimage good for the economy?

Millions of Muslims from all walks of life have converged on Saudi Arabia to perform the pilgrimage known as the Hajj. The annual occasion has become a lucrative business in recent years, proving a great financial asset to the economy of the oil-rich kingdom. Many pilgrims, however, struggle to reconcile their spiritual needs with their wallets.

Where does the money come from for the Hajj?

Last year, the 10-day event generated some $10bn (£6.2bn), according to the Chamber of Commerce in Mecca. The private sector also maximises its returns during Hajj, with investment in real estate an attractive proposition ahead of the pilgrimage. The highest rents in Saudi Arabia are found in the holy city of Mecca, the birthplace of Islam.