Hajj Pilgrimage Enters Key Phase as Millions Gather at Arafat Amid Extreme Heat
MINA: The annual Hajj pilgrimage has officially entered its most important phase as millions of Muslims gathered in Mina before heading to the plains of Arafat for Wuquf-e-Arafat, the central pillar of Hajj.
On the 8th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims spent Yaum-e-Tarwiyah in worship and prayers in Mina. Due to intense heat, most pilgrims remained inside their tents during the day, while movement in the streets and camps increased in the evening as temperatures became slightly cooler.
Nearly two million Muslims from around the world, including thousands from Pakistan, are participating in Hajj this year. Pilgrims offered Zuhr and Asr prayers in Mina before the first groups departed for Arafat after sunset.
Today, on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, all pilgrims are expected to reach the plains of Arafat before Zuhr prayers to perform Wuquf-e-Arafat and listen to the Hajj sermon at Masjid Namirah. The sermon will be delivered by Imam of Masjid-e-Nabawi, Sheikh Ali Abdul Rahman Al-Hudhaifi.
After sunset, pilgrims will leave for Muzdalifah, where they will spend the night under the open sky.
According to Saudi Arabia’s meteorological department, temperatures in Mina and Arafat are expected to remain extremely high, reaching nearly 45°C on the Day of Arafat.
Saudi authorities have increased shaded areas, mist fans, and medical facilities across the holy sites to assist pilgrims and have urged them to stay hydrated and follow official safety instructions.
