Images capturing the movement of worshippers during Ramadan in Makkah from above are giving those not able to be there a special view.
The photographs were taken by the Saudi Press Agency more than 1,000 metres above the Saudi city, with the assistance of the kingdom's security aviation section.
They showed Muslims circling the Kaaba and gathering in squares in the city, nestled between the mountains.
Makkah is alive with visitors from all over the world during the holy month, for the first time since the Covid-19 outbreak was declared a pandemic.
In Ramadan 2020 and 2021, international visitors were barred from entering Saudi Arabia, but this year they have returned.
Itikaf prayers at both Grand Mosques have also been allowed once more.
All worshippers are met at the Grand Mosque with the smell of oud from more than 20 incense burners, which will be increased to 60 in the last 10 days of the fast.
Oud is also burnt during each prayer time at the Kaaba.
To help pilgrims stay cool, eight million litres of Zamzam water have been distributed at the Grand Mosque so far.
Volunteers carried 250 backpacks and 91 carts of bottles and vats of water. The area is kept pristine by 4,000 staff who have cleaned the Grand Mosque 100 times since Ramadan began.
Mosques from space - in pictures
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What is Genes in Space?
Genes in Space is an annual competition first launched by the UAE Space Agency, The National and Boeing in 2015.
It challenges school pupils to design experiments to be conducted in space and it aims to encourage future talent for the UAE’s fledgling space industry. It is the first of its kind in the UAE and, as well as encouraging talent, it also aims to raise interest and awareness among the general population about space exploration.
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