Part 3: Reflections on Change Since My First Hajj in 2007
Having performed my first Hajj in 2007, I could not help but notice the tremendous changes that have taken place throughout the holy sites over the past nineteen years. The most striking difference was the transformation of the landscape in and around Mecca. Many areas around the miqat stations and the city itself were almost unrecognisable compared to my first visit. Extensive development projects, modern infrastructure, improved road networks, and expanded facilities have dramatically changed the appearance of the region.
As our bus travelled through areas that I remembered from 2007, I often found myself trying to recognise familiar landmarks. In many cases, they had disappeared entirely, replaced by new highways, tunnels, hotels, and modern developments. The pace of change was remarkable. I was particularly impressed by the improvements in Mina and Arafah. During my first Hajj in 2007, the facilities were much more basic, and hygiene standards were not always satisfactory. Managing the movement and welfare of millions of pilgrims was a significant challenge. In contrast, during Hajj 2026, I found the facilities cleaner, better maintained, and significantly more organised. The sanitation facilities, crowd-management systems, transportation arrangements, and overall infrastructure reflected years of planning and continuous improvement.
The movement of pilgrims between the various Hajj sites also appeared more orderly and efficient. Considerable effort has clearly been invested in enhancing safety, comfort, and accessibility for the guests of Allah. Witnessing these changes gave me a deeper appreciation of the tremendous work undertaken to facilitate Hajj for millions of Muslims each year. Yet despite the vast physical transformations, the essence of Hajj remains unchanged. Standing in Arafah, spending nights in Mina, performing tawaf around the Kaaba, and worshipping alongside millions of Muslims still evoked the same feelings of humility, gratitude, and submission to Allah that I experienced during my first Hajj in 2007. The contrast between the two pilgrimages reminded me that while cities, buildings, roads, and facilities may change with time, the spiritual purpose of Hajj remains eternal.
Subhanallah Walhamdulillah Wala illaha illallah Wallahu Akbar.
Wala Haula Wala Quwata Illah Billahil 'Aliyill'Azim