Two million Muslims arrive at Mecca in Saudi Arabia

In the arrivals hall at Jeddah airport, determined pilgrims walk hastily to avoid losing contact with other members of their group.

'I'm so happy to be a part of it this year,' said 43-year-old Nigerian Mohammed Said, in the seamless two-piece white garment or 'ihram' worn by male pilgrims.

'I want to do it every year if I can afford it,' added Said who is in Saudi Arabia for his third hajj.

'Every time it's different -- it's like I'm doing it for the first time.'

The hajj is one of the five pillars of the Islamic faith, which every Muslim is required to complete at least once in a lifetime if he or she has the means to do so.

'I'm so excited because many people dream of coming to this place,' said 47-year-old Eni from Indonesia, her face framed in a sand-coloured veil trimmed with lace.

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