The Business of Hajj

Abstract

Hajj is the pilgrimage to Makkah and it is one of the five pillars in Islam, compulsory for all Muslims who are financially and physically capable. In the past, transportation was by foot, camel and steamship and could take months and years. Hajj was expensive, therefore, pilgrims traded merchandises to pay for their travel expenses. The modern Hajj is different; todaymost of pilgrims travel by air and some stay in five-star hotels. This chapter examines the business of Hajj and its recent development in three periods: prior to European involvement; Hajj business under the Europeans; and Hajj in the twentieth century. The chapter highlights the effect of these changes on the quality of the religious experience, a topic not previously discussed.