Over 1.6 Million Pilgrims Gather in Arafat for the Central Rite of Hajj

Makkah: More than 1.6 million pilgrims have gathered in the plains of Arafat to perform Wuquf-e-Arafah, the most significant pillar of Hajj.

Since sunrise, pilgrims have been engaged in prayers, supplications, and remembrance of Allah, with chants of “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik” echoing across the sacred grounds. Many worshippers were seen raising their hands in prayer and shedding tears during the spiritually profound day of Arafah.

Islamic scholars regard the Day of Arafah as one of the holiest days in the Islamic calendar, associated with mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal. The day also commemorates the Farewell Sermon delivered by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during Hajjat-ul-Wida in 632 CE at Jabal al-Rahmah, where he emphasized justice, equality, and the sanctity of life and property.

Pilgrims will remain in Arafat throughout the day, spending most of their time in worship and prayers. Large numbers of worshippers had reached Jabal al-Rahmah and surrounding areas early in the morning.

The movement of pilgrims from Mina to Arafat began late on the night of 8th Dhul-Hijjah, known as Yawm al-Tarwiyah. Pilgrims were transported in organized groups through the Mashair train service as well as buses.

After sunset, pilgrims will depart for Muzdalifah, where they will offer combined Maghrib and Isha prayers, collect pebbles for the symbolic stoning ritual (Rami), and later proceed to Mina after Fajr prayers.

Saudi authorities have implemented extensive arrangements in Arafat to ensure smooth crowd management and pilgrim safety. Separate entry and exit routes have been designated around Masjid Namirah and Jabal al-Rahmah to prevent congestion and facilitate organized movement.

Traffic police units have also been deployed across major routes leading to Arafat, while security personnel, Red Crescent units, scouts, and volunteers from charitable organizations have been assisting pilgrims throughout the area.

This year, authorities introduced advanced ground-based cooling systems around Jabal al-Rahmah to reduce the impact of extreme heat, significantly improving comfort for pilgrims during the hot afternoon hours.