![epa06958157 Muslim pilgrims pray around the holy Kaaba at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, 18 August 2018 (issued 19 August 2018). Around 2.5 million Muslims are expected to attend this year's Hajj pilgrimage, which is highlighted by the Day of Arafah, one day prior to Eid al-Adha. Eid al-Adha is the holiest of the two Muslims holidays celebrated each year, it marks the yearly Muslim pilgrimage (Hajj) to visit Mecca, the holiest place in Islam. EPA/MOHAMMED SABER](https://thenational-the-national-prod.cdn.arcpublishing.com/resizer/v2/3MJEOY65KRSDS6V3KTLQOE7BKY.jpg?smart=true&auth=53c69581443d5d8c41258957641b7a7c0c7ca35ae6fa8dc96383f42e4784cb9c&width=400&height=225)
Muslim pilgrims pray around the holy Kaaba at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. EPA
Muslim pilgrims pray around the holy Kaaba at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. EPA
Ramadan 2019: Hajj is a calling from God
Thousands join the pilgrimage to Makkah from the UAE for Hajj each year