Hajj 2023: Record Numbers and Challenges Ahead.

Millions of Muslim worshipers from over 160 countries have gathered in Mecca for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, with Saudi authorities expecting to set a new record in attendance after the full elimination of pandemic restrictions. The maximum age limit has been scrapped, and the requirement for women to be accompanied by male guardians has been dropped. The pilgrimage is physically demanding and tests the pilgrims' patience and temperament on a spiritual, emotional, and physical level. The Hajj rituals will begin on Sunday at the Grand Mosque of Mecca, and the pilgrimage is one of the pillars of Islam that Muslims are religiously obliged to perform at least once in a lifetime.