Faisal Rashid and his wife awoke early at 3 a.m. for a critical task. They scrambled to secure spots for this year’s Hajj, aware that packages could sell out quickly. From their Pasadena, California home, Rashid navigated the digital booking platform with high adrenaline. The moment they learned they had confirmed spots in the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca was deeply emotional. Even recalling it now brings tears to their eyes.

“It was a joyful experience,” stated Rashid, 35. His voice wavered as he added, “My wife was crying and praying. We felt immense gratitude.”

“Our resolve to perform the pilgrimage has not changed despite evolving events since that day,” Rashid expressed.

Amidst the backdrop of regional tensions, U.S. Muslims, including Rashid and his wife, are joining a multitude of pilgrims journeying to Saudi Arabia. The official start of Hajj is set for Monday. Pilgrims unite in religious rituals, fulfilling one of the Five Pillars of Islam—a mandatory duty for those physically and financially able. Hajj offers a spiritual awakening and a chance for pilgrims to seek God’s forgiveness.

For many, the journey requires years of saving and awaiting a permit. “Going to Hajj is not guaranteed,” Rashid clarified. “If God invites you, then you can go.” Rashid, a doctoral candidate and a Los Angeles Police Department reserve officer, was queried by his father about how the war could impact their plans; an aunt questioned refunds if conditions worsened. He recalled others enduring worse challenges to undertake the pilgrimage. “It’s a physically and emotionally demanding expedition,” he remarked.

Rashid, naturally a planner, started tracking flights and receiving updates from U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. Yet, he chose to rely on his faith over worrying. “In Islam, we learn to try our best but then let go of uncontrollable elements,” he commented. “I must trust that God is the best planner.”

Travel Concerns Rise Amidst War

On Friday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted slight progress in discussions with Iran regarding a peace deal. Days prior, U.S. President Donald Trump postponed a military strike against Iran amidst serious negotiations. Trump warned the ceasefire achieved in April might dissolve if Iran did not reach an agreement.

Amid the Iran war, the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh cautioned U.S. citizens against participating in this year’s Hajj, citing “security conditions and interruptions in travels.” Ahmed Sufyan, a surgeon from Michigan, worried about flight disruptions on his return trip. His schedule includes passing through Gulf countries involved in conflict since Feb. 28. “Uncertainty with the war adds concern,” he admitted, acknowledging that “faith is what propels us.”

If this were merely for vacation, justification would be difficult. But Hajj’s significance differs. “I feel fortunate for this opportunity,” Sufyan declared. “I know people who’ve tried for years but struggled to secure a spot.”

Sufyan believes, “Hajj transcends politics and conflict.” His objective is self-betterment. “For Hajj, you must shift focus from personal matters to thinking of your creator,” he noted. “It cultivates patience and humility.”

Costs and Unpredictability

Hajj unites diverse Muslims globally, fostering a sense of unity and connection. In India, pilgrimage arrangements proceed as usual, although high fuel prices elevate travel expenses. In the U.S., unpredictability altered Noor-e-ain Shahid’s childcare plans for when she and her husband attended Hajj. The Texas neurologist initially arranged for her children to stay with family in Dubai.

However, the eruption of war led to uncertainty. Concerned about potential regional flare-ups and flight delays stranding her children, Shahid’s in-laws offered to care for them in the U.S. Despite travel worries, her faith remains strong. “If Allah invited me, Allah will care for me,” she affirmed. “Should this be my end, then I accept that.”

Amid overwhelming emotions, Shahid feels fortunate. “Hajj signifies rebirth,” she described. “It provides a chance to return anew and begin afresh.”

In California, Rashid and his wife prepared physically for Hajj by exercising regularly and breaking in new shoes. They also sought spiritual guidance and collected prayer requests from others. “You aim to enter Hajj spiritually with a clean heart, free of bitterness,” Rashid emphasized. “In Hajj, worldly anxieties should fade.”

Associated Press writer Sheikh Saaliq from New Delhi, India, contributed to this report.

Associated Press religion coverage is supported by The Conversation US, funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP retains full content responsibility.