The annual pilgrimage to Mecca (Saudi Arabia) - called the Hajj- is an obligation on those who are financially and physically able to perform it.  Nevertheless, approximately 3 million people go to Mecca each year from every corner of the globe providing a unique opportunity for those of different nations to meet one another. Pilgrims wear special clothes: simple garments which strip away distinctions of class and culture and all stand equal before God. The Hajj is a major example of the universal message of Islam and its teachings on equality.

“And proclaim among people the Pilgrimage; they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel coming from every remote path. That they may witness advantages for them and mention the name of God during the stated days over what He has given them of the cattle quadrupeds, then eat of them and feed the distressed one, the needy”. Qur'an (22:27-28)

 Hajj is a great Islamic conference. It is an ideal demonstration of faith in which diverse groups of every race, class, and nationality join together at a given time and in a specific place. They repeatedly recite a single call, and proclaim the same slogan.
They gather for one purpose: To declare their servitude and loyalty to God alone, freeing themselves from any trace of polytheism and ignorance, in a deeply effective, collective way, which fills the soul with feelings of faith, and unity.

As the Holy Qur'an proclaims, and the Prophetic traditions demonstrate, it is not only worship and a way of getting closer to God, but is a way of granting the pilgrim social, educational, economic and political benefits.

During Hajj, Muslims witness the most excellent example of equality, submissiveness, and human brotherhood. Removing the outer difference and donning the dress of unity Ihram accomplish this. The result is that all feel at one among the human race, brotherhood and equality.

While performing Hajj, Muslims also feel at one with the earth and the people. They invalidate all the artificial boundaries established by human, regional, national and racial superiority complexes and egoism. Traveling across thousands of miles, they penetrate all barriers, and rise above all-man-made hurdles, in order to respond to Islam's call of faith.

During Hajj, Muslims meet each other in a magnificent communion. They relate to each other's domestic and regional affairs. They consult each other concerning their life and religion. They exchange experiences, opinions, and good habits. They become acquainted with each other's problems. They learn of each other's viewpoints. This interchanging of ideas increases their awareness, knowledge grows, and the impetus to reform is invigorated. As a result, plans are proposed, projects designed, educational, political, social and economic centers are established. The Muslims support each other, as if they are one body and one soul.

During Hajj, the pilgrim imbibes ethical and educational lessons, which reduce one’s faults. One inquires patience through hardship, become humble, generous, and tender. One renounces lying, backbiting, animosity, and pride. One learns from the journey through mixing with others. Within them, positive social tendencies grow and morals are refined.

Edited article from:

http://www.balagh.com/english/articles/OBJECTIVES%20AND%20BENEFITS%20OF%20HAJJ.htm