One of the most important occasions in the Islamic calendar is Eid al Adha, which is observed by millions of Muslims around the world. The celebration of Eid al Adha marks the end of the hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca and its neighbouring sites. Selected Muslims from throughout the world come to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, to perform the hajj every year during the last month of the Islamic calendar, known as Dhul Hijjah.
One of Islam's five pillars, the hajj is among the top five activities a practising Muslim should undertake in order to establish a relationship with God. Every Muslim who has the financial means to cover the associated travel costs is required to perform the Hajj.
