We urge the first batch of pilgrims to be ready for their return trip and pray for a smooth return leg operation for all our pilgrims."He also reminded Muslim faithful of the spiritual significance of Hajj,

Tens of thousands of Muslim pilgrims clambered up rocks and nestled between boulders on Thursday as they embarked on a day of worship under a scorching sun at the Hajj in Saudi Arabia.

Thousands of white-robed pilgrims recited Quranic verses from dawn on the 70-meter rocky rise near Mecca, where the Prophet Mohammed is believed to have given his last sermon.