By Staff Reporter
Under the blazing sun and amid waves of worshippers from around the world, UAE pilgrims arriving in the holy city of Makkah for this year’s Hajj say the spiritual power of the journey has already surpassed the exhaustion of travel and intense heat.
As thousands prepare to move to the holy sites for the next stages of the pilgrimage, many pilgrims described their first moments in the city as emotional, unforgettable, and spiritually uplifting — especially those performing Hajj alongside family members.
For Emirati pilgrims Fatima Al Mansoori and Maryam Al Mansoori, the journey began weeks before their arrival on May 20, as they prepared mentally and spiritually for one of Islam’s most sacred experiences.
Fatima said she spent time studying the rituals of Hajj and listening to religious lectures to better understand the meaning behind every act of worship.
“We counted the days with excitement,” she said. “Even wearing the ihram felt like stepping into a completely new chapter of life.”
Maryam recalled the emotional atmosphere before departure, with relatives and loved ones offering prayers and farewells.
“Those moments reminded us how sacred and special this journey truly is,” she said.
The pilgrims described their arrival at the Grand Mosque as deeply moving, especially the moment they first laid eyes on the Holy Kaaba.
“When we approached the mosque, my heart was racing,” Fatima said. “People from every nationality and every age were walking together toward one destination, united in worship.”
For Maryam, seeing the Kaaba for the first time was overwhelming.
“I could not stop my tears,” she said. “It felt like time stood still completely.”
She added that no photograph or television broadcast could truly capture the feeling of standing before the Kaaba in person.
“You feel peace, greatness, and a connection with God that words cannot fully explain,” she said.
Despite the large crowds and soaring temperatures, the pilgrims praised the organisation of this year’s Hajj preparations, saying the smooth arrangements allowed them to focus fully on prayer and worship.
“Every step between the holy sites carries memories and prayers that will stay with us forever,” Fatima said.
Maryam described Hajj as a life-changing experience that teaches humility, patience, and gratitude.
“One of the most powerful moments is seeing millions of Muslims united together regardless of language or nationality,” she said. “You feel incredibly close to God.”
The pilgrims are now preparing to move to the camps in Mina for the Day of Tarwiyah, marking the next stage of the annual pilgrimage. Before departing, many pilgrims spent time praying inside the Grand Mosque and drinking Zamzam water as they prepared spiritually for the sacred journey ahead.
