The important period of Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is once more upon us. With about 10 days to go before the moon is sighted for Dhu’l-Hijja 1447, with Hajj taking place between the 8-13 of the month, pilgrims (Hujjaj) throughout the world have already started descending into Makkah, getting ready to perform their Hajj. This year, South African Muslims were given an initial quota of about 1140 people by the Saudi Authorities, and had to apply for credentials through the ‘Nusuk System’, less than the over 2000 given in previous years. However, as other countries did not fill their initial allocated quotas through Nusuk, a second round was opened up for Hujjaj to apply, allowing many more South Africans to be accredited to go for Hajj, with figures likely to once more reach 2000. In total, about 2 million Hujjaj are expected to perform Hajj this year. Moulana Junaid Kharsany, a Hajj guide for local travel agency, Yusra Tours, working together with Ithra-ul-Khair, told the Laudium Sun, “Our group will be serving 220 Hujjaj, who are performing Hajj this year. We have seen an increase in the number of professional couples and the average age of those going for Hajj is now between 30-35. The first group of Hujjaj from South Africa left on the eve of May 1, with the last departure date expected to be May 19. During the last 36 hour period (from Wednesday morning to last night [ ), 280 Hujjaj from South Africa had left. We have seen prices for Hajj packages ranging from R110k to R240k”. The Laudium Sun joins our readers in wishing all Hujjaj going for Hajj this year, a safe journey, good health and ease. May the Almighty grant you a truly blessed Hajj and accept all your duas. Please do remember us in your duas too. Hajj Mabroor!