InFocus profiles the journey of three individuals who will be going for Hajj this year, speaking to them before and after their trip.

Up until the 19th century, Hajj, the pilgrimage to Makkah, required of all Muslims once in their lifetime, was a journey that only few could dream of completing. Caravans would travel for months trudging through dangerous terrain and were exposed to natural hazards. Many died before even reaching the blessed land due to disease. For the poor, the journey took years to complete as they stopped to work when they ran out of provisions. To perform the Hajj was a miracle and to return home was achieving the impossible.

Enter the 21st century: Boeing 747s, air-conditioned hotels, mosquito repellents, and digital cameras. While the journey seems luxurious in comparison to the past, the yearning desire to fulfill the fifth pillar of Islam is as strong for Muslims today as it was before.