Millions of Pilgrims Gather for Wuqoof-e-Arafat as Hajj Rituals Continue

MAKKAH: The sacred rituals of Hajj continue as millions of Muslims from around the world gather today in the plain of Arafat to perform Wuqoof-e-Arafat, the central pillar of Hajj.

Pilgrims had earlier travelled from Makkah to Mina in caravans, where they offered Zuhr, Asr, Maghrib and Isha prayers.

The night in Mina was spent in worship, remembrance, supplication and recitation of the Holy Quran, while the atmosphere echoed with the chants of “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk.”

Today, on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims will gather in the plain of Arafat to listen to the Hajj sermon delivered from Masjid al-Namirah.

On this occasion, pilgrims will offer Zuhr and Asr prayers together in accordance with Hajj practice.

Pilgrims will remain engaged in prayers, repentance, and seeking forgiveness until sunset. Wuqoof-e-Arafat is regarded as the most significant pillar of Hajj and one of the most spiritually important moments for Muslims.

After sunset, pilgrims will proceed to Muzdalifah, where they will spend the night under the open sky. Maghrib and Isha prayers will be offered together, and pilgrims will collect pebbles for the ritual of stoning the Jamarat.

On the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims will return to Mina to perform the symbolic stoning of the largest Jamarat, followed by sacrifice and shaving or trimming of hair, after which restrictions of Ihram will be lifted.

Pilgrims will then proceed to Masjid al-Haram to perform Tawaf-e-Ziyarat.

Saudi authorities have introduced extensive arrangements for the safety and comfort of pilgrims amid concerns over heat and weather conditions.

Cooling systems, shaded areas and water misting facilities have been installed in and around Arafat to reduce temperatures, while dedicated walking corridors have also been developed to ease movement for pilgrims.