Saudi Arabia Welcomes 1 Million for Biggest Hajj Pilgrimage Since Pandemic

A picture taken on July 4, 2022 shows a general view of the Kaaba (C) at the Grand Mosque, in the holy city of Makkah as Saudi Arabia hosts some one million people for the Hajj pilgrimage. (AFP)

White-robed worshippers from around the world have packed the streets of Islam's holiest city ahead of the biggest Hajj pilgrimage since the coronavirus pandemic began.

Banners welcoming the faithful, including the first international visitors since 2019, adorned squares and alleys, while armed security forces patrolled the ancient city, birthplace of the Prophet Mohammed.