Russian pilgrims departing for Saudi Arabia on Sunday shared with RIA Novosti what they will pray for in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina—including for Russian President Vladimir Putin, the multinational people of Russia, peace, and victory in the ongoing events.

"We eagerly await our flight to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj, one of the fundamental duties of a Muslim. In these sacred places, we will pray for our President Putin, for peace, and for victory. My son died there—I will pray for him too," said Saimya Kutuzova, one of the pilgrims.

Rushan Abbyasov, Deputy Chairman of the Religious board of muslims of Russian Federation (RBM) for International Affairs and Hajj, noted that Russians will also beseech the Almighty to grant peace and prosperity to the nation.

"We pray for this in mosques, but we also believe it is our duty to offer such prayers in Mecca and Medina," he added.

Rustam Sabirov, the RBM delegate accompanying the group, said the departing pilgrims include representatives from several Russian regions.

"We are completing the final registration procedures—everything is proceeding as planned. There’s always some nervousness during farewells, but also immense emotion and energy," he remarked.

Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a mandatory act of worship for every financially and physically capable Muslim. In 2025, Hajj will take place from June 4–9.

Moscow, May 26 – RIA Novosti.