MUMBAI: From Jakarta to New York and Baghdad to Paris, more than two million Muslims are expected to take part in this year’s Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca.

For the eighth consecutive year, CNN International will present exclusive images and stories from the Hajj, including a look at pilgrims making their way from these cities. Hosted by journalist Zain Verjee, CNN International offers a week of special coverage from 19-24 January.

The special coverage will culminate in a half-hour programme Hajj: The Path Of Pilgrims, as Verjee looks back on the events of the week through the experiences of these pilgrims. The programme airs on 23 January at 5 pm with repeats on 29 January at 6 pm and on 30 January at 8 pm.

Through the eyes of the pilgrims, CNN International features several personal perspectives of the sacred journey. This year, CNN will offer a unique behind-the-scenes look at the pilgrimage of a three-generation Iraqi-American family who are given a camcorder to closely document their experiences. U.S.-based Imam Qazwini, a Shia Cleric, whose 14 family members were executed under Saddam Hussein, will be making this pilgrimage with his 18-year-old son. The two will meet up with their Iraqi grandfather in Medina.

CNN Intl senior VP Rena Golden said, “By allowing a camera on their journey, this family is letting the world bear witness to something very personal and we are pleased to be able to give our viewers such a distinct perspective of the Hajj. What is happening in the Middle East and the Islamic world are important issues for CNN viewers. Therefore, providing special insight into the Hajj is essential.”