MECCA Pilgrims and Hajj officials from all corners of the world have converged in Mecca are prepared for this year's Hajj and have drawn up comprehensive plans and programs to render services to the pilgrims. The pilgrims are in Mecca to fulfill the fifth pillar of Islam in obedience to Allah's stipulation that Hajj should be performed by all those who can afford it financially.

Some 55,543 Iranian pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia to perform their annual Hajj rituals by Monday morning, the Islamic Republic of Iran's Hajj Headquarters in the holy city of Mecca announced here Monday. Some 10,500 Iranian pilgrims arrive in Mecca each day via Medina and Jeddah. The arrival of pilgrims in Mecca will continue till March 21, the Hajj headquarters added.

Those pilgrims who arrive directly in Mecca, will visit the Holy Shrine of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) after performing their Hajj rituals.