MAKKAH, 16 February — More than 1.5 million Muslims including about a million pilgrims attended the Friday prayers at the Grand Mosque here yesterday as the Kingdom geared up for the annual Haj pilgrimage.

The pilgrims thronged the large mosque complex on the last weekly prayer before the five-day pilgrimage that starts on Feb. 20, to hear a sermon by Imam Sheikh Osama Khayyat, perform Umrah and offer prayers.

In his Juma speech, Khayyat called on the pilgrims to concentrate on worship and keep away from all activities that would mar the sanctity of the Haj.

“This annual event is significant as it cleanses Muslims from sins and strengthens their unity and solidarity,” he added.

Authorities, preparing to host an estimated 2.5 million pilgrims, indicated last week that they would not tolerate any trouble at the pilgrimage.

Interior Minister Prince Naif said authorities will use “all their might” to confront “anyone who tries to breach security during the pilgrimage.”

Prince Naif, who is the chairman of the Supreme Haj Committee, will inspect the Haj arrangements made by various government departments in Makkah, Mina and other holy sites today. Accompanied by a number of ministers, the prince will also inspect the readiness of security forces.

Pilgrims who have already arrived in Makkah appeared overwhelmed by their experience.

“This is a great occasion, a great chance to get all sins removed,” said Mhmet Fakir, a Turkish pilgrim.

“We are here from all races and classes united as one to seek God’s forgiveness and mercy,” he added.

“This is the journey of my lifetime,” Ahmad Bakeer, a Sudanese pilgrim in a seamless white robe, said as he sat inside the Grand Mosque.

Haj must be performed once in a lifetime by every able-bodied Muslim who has the financial means.

Authorities have deployed police, doctors, sanitation and other workers to serve the pilgrims.

The Haj will reach its climax on Feb. 21 when about 2.5 million pilgrims will assemble on Mount Arafat, the site of Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) last sermon 14 centuries ago.

On the plains of Arafat the faithful will stand in prayer, seeking forgiveness and blessings from God.