London mayor completes Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca

The mayor of London travelled to Mecca to perform Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage. The mayor posted photographs of the Kaaba on social media and described the journey as a spiritual obligation. Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and is required of Muslims at least once in a lifetime. Pilgrims wear simple white garments called ihram and perform rituals at the Grand Mosque.

Attendance and conditions Saudi authorities reported that 1.5 million pilgrims had arrived by Monday. The figure is 11,000 higher than last year, even as conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States continues. The mayor was photographed wearing the two-piece white ihram cloth in front of the Kaaba. The mayor also performed the Umrah pilgrimage in 2022.

Statements from the mayor The mayor wrote on social media that standing among millions of pilgrims was a reminder of equality before God. The mayor added that the journey symbolises humility, forgiveness and rebirth. The mayor said prayers would include people in need in London and around the world. Hajj occurs during the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar.