The pilgrimage of Hagi, two million Muslims to the House

The important event is joined by pilgrims from Iran, whose authorities have boycotted the ritual in recent years, since the turbulent escape of 2015, when the push of people into the huge mob cost the lives of hundreds of Iranians.

This time, Hagi starts today and ends on the 24th of this month.

Considered one of the 5 pillars of Islam, it is an obligation that every Muslim must fulfill at least once in his life.

Days ago it was announced that, among the participating believers, there will be 1,000 relatives of Egyptian policemen and soldiers who fell to the post.

They are considered part of Saudi King Salman's special guest programme, “as a sign of gratitude for their role in confronting terrorism, evil and oppression”, the declaration issued by Egyptian authorities says. For many pilgrims, this is the first time they leave home, embarking on a journey and sacrifice of this nature at temperatures that exceed 40 degrees Fahrenheit [40 ° C].

This year Saudis have launched apps aimed at helping pilgrims with all procedures from travel to health care.