Dawn prayer at Mecca Grand Mosque for Eid al-Adha

Around the world, Muslims are marking the end of the Hajj pilgrimage with Eid al-Adha, or Festival of Sacrifice.

The faithful gathered around the Ka'aba in Mecca's Grand Mosque for dawn prayers, ushering in the holiday. It commemorates the prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail at God’s request.

Muslims traditionally slaughter sheep and cattle, dividing the meat among the needy, friends and relatives.