A Muslim pilgrim walks barefoot as he and others head to the Grand Mosque in the holy city of Mecca, 22 Decmber 2006. Saudi Arabia began receiving Muslim pilgrims early this month in preparation for the annual hajj and Saudi religious authorities announced today that the Muslim Eid al-Adha, or Feast of Sacrifice, which follows the hajj pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina will start 30 December. AFP PHOTO/MOHAMMED ABED