Millions of Muslims travelling to Mecca have caught “selfie fever,” angering some Muslim clerics for snapping pictures of themselves at holy sites during the annual hajj pilgrimage.
Many young Muslims believe that posting selfies on social media is the best way to communicate with their families and document of such precious moments.
The phenomenon has been strongly criticised by some scholars.
According to a report by the Arab News, Islamic clerics are becoming concerned about the number of pilgrims taking pictures of themselves during what is supposed to be a time of humility and tranquillity.
The article, Say No to Hajj Selfie, claims a number of scholars and other pilgrims have become annoyed at the "selfie fever", condemning it as "touristy behaviour".
Their comments come as over two million pilgrims make their way to Mecca for the annual pilgrimage.
Jeddah-based scholar Sheikh Assim Al-Hakeem told the news website: "Photography without a legitimate reason is an issue of dispute among scholars. However, despite this difference of opinion, there shouldn't be any dispute when it comes to the real meaning of Hajj and the essence behind it."
The report said that camera phones used to be banned from mosques, but the authorities have seemingly relaxed the rules.
But some think the chorus of disapproval - even a former grand mufti in Egypt has been critical - is unlikely to have an effect.
"So many people have camera phones, it's not easy to stop," one pilgrim said.