In preparation for the annual Islamic Hajj pilgrimage, Mecca's final school examinations have been rescheduled, aligning with the proximity of the Hajj season. The adjustment, announced by authorities, reflects the exceptional circumstances surrounding the pilgrimage.

Practical tests will commence on the 14th of the Islamic lunar month Dhul Qadah, corresponding to May 22, while written exams are slated for Dhul Qadah 18, or May 26, with oral exams scheduled for June 3.

With this year's Hajj rites expected to commence on June 14, depending on the sighting of the new moon, an influx of over 2 million Muslims from around the world is anticipated to participate in the pilgrimage.

Saudi agencies, gearing up for the event, are bracing for record numbers of pilgrims, following a surge of around 30 million Muslims undertaking Umrah in Mecca during the previous Islamic sacred month of Ramadan.

Last year saw approximately 1.8 million Muslims performing Hajj, signaling a return to pre-pandemic levels.

Saudi Arabia has adopted a new strategy for overseas pilgrims, foregoing specific allocations for countries in favor of a contract-based approach, aiming to streamline preparations for the obligatory Islamic duty of Hajj.