Saudi Arabia may be well known for its oil reserves and precarious geographic location, but the Islamic faith defines the country far more than any other quality. Although it may appear to be an absolute monarchy, the country is as close to a theocracy as you can get in the modern world. The real Saudi ruler is Allah. This is seen in every aspect of Saudi life, even in the tourism industry. While other countries rely on stunning natural views, impressive shopping districts, or relaxing beaches, Saudi Arabia has proven to be the pinnacle of religious tourism. The Hajj, an Islamic ritual journey to Mecca required for every capable Muslim, brings "around 3 million Muslims" (Long) to the Saudi Arabian desert each year. Saudis “feel deeply honored to welcome the millions of worshipers who practice it each year and responsible for their safety and well-being as they carry out their religious obligations” (Long). The Hajj requires extensive preparation on the part of the Saudi government, but it pays off in the end. The Hajj’s most glaring infrastructure need comes in the form of transportation. Not only do millions of people have to arrive in Mecca at the same time, but they then have to perform several traditions alongside each other for almost a week. The modern world has made the Hajj accessible to millions of people, perhaps billions more than could have been performed a hundred years ago. Although camels were once the main means of transportation for the haji, Jeddah's King Abdulaziz Airport now transports the majority of these religious tourists. “There are huge terminals specially designed for pilgrims coming to Mecca” (Alcantara). Just this year, Saudi airline Saudia launched a non-stop flight from Los Angeles to the middle of the Hajj paper. " BBC News. BBC Arabic, October 24, 2012. Web May 17, 2014. .Okoye, Chidi. "Epidemic in hajj camp." Daily Times, November 9, 2011. Web. May 17, 2014. "Pilgrims' income accounts for 3 % of Saudi GDP." January 5, 2013. Web. May 17, 2014. "Saudi Arabia praised by World Health Organization for its hajj health services." Saudi Gazette, October 17, 2013. Web, 17 May 2014. “Annual income from pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia exceeds $30. billion - paper." RIA Novosti. Ria Novosti, November 29, 2009. Web. May 17. 2014. .