Factbox-What is the Muslim Haj pilgrimage?

A satellite image shows an overview of Grand Mosque during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, June 16, 2024. Maxar Technologies/Handout via REUTERS

DUBAI (Reuters) - Here is a look at the haj, one of the largest mass gatherings in the world, which starts in Saudi Arabia on Friday.

* The haj is an annual pilgrimage that millions of Muslims make to Mecca with the intention of performing religious rites as taught by the Prophet Mohammad to his followers 14 centuries ago.