Photo Gallery: Modernizing the Hajj

Have some more time to upload photos while I'm at my laptop working on the print articles.  The first story will look at how Canadian engineers are helping to transform the Hajj experience, and the second will look at how technology is making the annual pilgrimage into something like a Hajj 2.0.  Saudi authorities are fully embracing new modes of communication and technology, to bring the ancient ritual into the 21st century.

In the meantime, here are more pics.  Please note that there's a strict "no cameras allowed" policy inside the Great Mosque.  They usually allow in only one pool photographer, from AP or Reuters.  Most of these pics were taken from outside during the late morning.

 
A pilgrim walks outside the Great Mosque in Mecca.  During prayer time, this entire area is filled with pilgrims.

 

 
A pilgrim takes a photo of his friend standing in front of the new Makkah Clock tower, opposite the Great Mosque in Mecca.

 

 
A pilgrims stops to look at a map of the Great Mosque, including plans for its expansion, in Mecca.

 

 
In an effort to eliminate waste and be more environmentally friendly, recycling bins are now stationed throughout the Great Mosque.  Overhead LCD displays remind pilgrims to "Keep Allah's house clean."

 

 
A group of pilgrims drink from a ZamZam water station outside the Great Mosque in Mecca.  All water stations at the Great Mosque now offer recyclable plastic drinking cups. 

 

 
A group of Sudanese pilgrims makes their way into the Great Mosque.  Many pilgrims wear scarves or insignias showing which country they are from.

 
In one of the more progressive bylaws in the Arab world, this sign outside the Great Mosque in Mecca reads:  Smoking is Not Permitted in the Sanctified City

 
This sign outside the Great Mosque in Mecca advises pilgrims that any abandoned luggage will be removed.