More Muslim pilgrims die at the haj than a day in Iraq

MECCA, Saudi Arabia, Dec 28 (Reuters) - Nazir Hussein's uncle and aunt were among 362 Muslim pilgrims who were killed in a stampede in Mecca in January.

But that has not stopped the Indian-born London Underground worker and his two sons from joining 2 million pilgrims who will begin the 5-day haj ritual in the birthplace of Islam on Friday.

"I have absolutely no fear, no concern whatsoever. It is part of our faith and that's why we are here," said Hussein, one of some 23,000 British nationals in Mecca for the annual haj.

Even some clerics are helping the kingdom's efforts to avoid overcrowding. They issued a religious edict this month allowing pilgrims to begin the devil-stoning ritual in the morning rather than the afternoon as per tradition.

Pilgrims were less concerned about potential attacks by al Qaeda militants or violence between Sunnis and Shi'ites, despite growing tension between members of Islam's two main branches.

"We are under a complete news blackout, we focus on our daily prayers and on performing the rituals," said Imran Adam, a London-based management consultant. "This is a time of unity for all Muslims, Shi'ites and Sunnis."