Abstract
This thesis examines the complexities of the Hajj, the Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi
Arabia, undertaken by millions of Muslims annually. As a large-scale religious event, the Hajj
stands out for its massive, organized movement of people, all following specific sequences in
time and geography. At its core, this study provides a comprehensive analysis by examining
the perspectives of both pilgrims and event organisers. It also contributes to the
understanding of crowd behaviour in a unique context. This dual focus offers a holistic
understanding of the crowd dynamics involved.
The research fills key gaps in the literature by investigating factors that shape pilgrims'
experiences, such as cultural practices, language barriers, and inequalities, all of which are
examined in depth. It further analyses how sociocultural and environmental factors influence
pilgrim behaviour, exploring the interplay of prior knowledge, exposure, experience, and
traveling companions in shaping these experiences. Grounded in an interpretivist
philosophical approach, the study recognizes that meaning and experience are
co-constructed by participants. To capture these insights, the research employs a qualitative
methodology, including a careful thematic analysis of 30 semi-structured interviews with both
pilgrims and organisers.
Furthermore, the study engages with contemporary key theories of social behaviour,
including social identity theory, nudge theory, and gaze theory, to explain why individuals
behave in specific ways and how these behaviours can be guided toward socially beneficial
outcomes. Eight factors influencing crowd behaviour at large-scale events like the Hajj are
identified, categorized into pilgrim-related and external factors. The pilgrim-related factors
include: 1) cultural differences, 2) verbal and non-verbal communication and literacy, 3) prior
knowledge, exposure, and experience, 4) socio-economic class, and 5) gender. External
factors encompass: 1) group travel dynamics, 2) security and scheduling, and 3)
environmental conditions such as weather. While some of these factors may appear in other
large-scale events, they manifest uniquely within the context of the Hajj, contributing to a
deeper understanding of crowd behaviour in mega-events.