In pictures: Muslims gather for Hajj

Two million Muslims have gathered on the sacred Plain of Arafat in Saudi Arabia for the annual Hajj pilgrimage. They are praying for forgiveness at the hill where Muslims believe the last passage of the Koran was revealed to the prophet Mohammed 14 centuries ago.

Thousands of Muslims gather around the holy Kaaba of the Grand Mosque during evening prayer in the holy city of Mecca

Men may not wear clothes with stitching during the Hajj which is part of being in a special state of ritual purity

Saudi Arabia has boosted security at the site vowing to use "an iron fist" if terrorists try to disrupt the event

Prince Naif Abdulaziz, Saudi interior minister, listens to security officers in Mecca

The frail King Fahd has travelled to Mecca for the Hajj this year

Pilgrims take the opportunity to shop in Mecca where there are numerous markets and arcades