Pilgrims now have a new title: Hajji for men, Hajja for women. This is a mark of honour across the Muslim world, and some heads of state include it as part of their official titles. Hajjis come home to great celebrations. Family, friends and others congratulate them with the phrase ‘Hajj mabrour’, ‘may the pilgrimage be accepted by God’.
In Egypt and elsewhere the walls of pilgrims’ houses are decorated with images of the journey and of the sanctuary at Mecca. Many souvenirs are often bought in Mecca. As a tangible memory of the spiritual experience in Mecca, but also as a gift to family and friends.
