Embarking on Hajj is a spiritual voyage that millions of Muslims undertake annually. Discover what to expect during this sacred journey, including managing crowds, navigating transport, and understanding the essential rituals, accommodation, and facilities.
Crowds
On average, two million people from around the world perform Hajj each year. Statistics show that in 2023, a record number of about 2.2 million pilgrims performed Hajj, with the figure in excess of three million. The actual number of pilgrims is thought to be much higher, due to the number of unregistered pilgrims who take part in the Hajj.
In order to deal with the immense crowds, you will need to be mentally prepared and have a great deal of patience. There have been a number of fatal incidents over the years due to stampedes as a result of panic in crowded areas, the most recent being in 2015 where over 2,000 pilgrims were killed in Mina.
Huge crowds during Hajj
Large crowds can cause anxiety and nervousness in individuals, particularly for those who aren’t used to such environments. The following are a few tips to deal with crowds during Hajj:
- Avoid peak times – Some Hajj rituals, such as the pelting of the Jamarat, can be performed throughout the day. It is advisable to complete these rituals at times when there isn’t as much of a crowd as there normally would be during peak times.
- Take a break – If you’re performing a ritual such as Tawaf or Sa’i or walking between Hajj sites and feel the crowd is getting too much for you, it is perfectly acceptable to take a break and find a less crowded area.
- Be aware – Just as you would if you were driving a car, be completely mindful of what’s happening around you. You may well collide with people or even wheelchairs during rituals if you’re not as careful as you should be.
- Take care of your belongings – Thieves tend to steal wallets and other items from pilgrims in crowded areas. Stay vigilant and ensure your belongings are adequately secure.
- Never push – In crowded places, some pushing and shoving is inevitable. Remember, there will be many pilgrims from countries where pushing and shoving in crowded places is a norm. Try your best not to push and perform your rites in a cool and collected manner. Don’t harm anybody and remain calm if others are pushing.
- Go with the flow – In a crowd, go with the flow rather than against the flow, remaining within the block of people heading in the direction that you wish to go. Avoid walking in the opposing direction of people as this will inevitably lead to collisions.
- Company – Avoid walking alone, particularly if you’re a woman. It’s nice to have that bit of support, especially if you struggle with crowds.
- Help others – If you notice someone around you becoming anxious about the crowds, try to give them space and reassure them.
- Be patient – Crowding and long queues are inevitable, so you must remain patient and try not to get frustrated.
