Chinese Muslims among the faithful gathered in Mecca

World Today

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Every year, the hajj pilgrimage draws Muslims from around the world — including China.

CCTV America’s Adel EL Mahrouky reports.

Pilgrims in Mecca are united by faith, but divided and housed by their country.

Volunteers stand every night with China’s flag on the main roads, to guide the way back for their countrymen.

The average age of the Chinese pilgrims is over 60, so a team of doctors accompanies them. They are usually exhausted after performing the rituals and supervising fellow elderly pilgrims.


Demand grows for barbers during hajj pilgrimage

A quick feasibility study would make anyone want to become a barber during the hajj.

In a single week, half of the pilgrims here in Mecca must cut or shave their hair at least twice. A bottle of shampoo and a box of 20 disposable blades cost just $3. And you break even after your first customer. In fact, that first set of blades could earn you up to $70 in a matter of hours.

CCTV America’s Adel EL Mahrouky reports.

As the barbers’ shops were over-crowded after the Stoning of the Devil ritual, street barbers stood out with their cheaper prices, which has thus triggered some pilgrims to try to make money by shaving for foreign pilgrims.