Mina / Arafat: The most important ritual of Hajj, known as Waqoof-e-Arafat (Standing at Arafat), will be performed today as millions of pilgrims continue their sacred journey in the holy sites of Mina and surrounding areas.
On Monday, the 8th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims spent the Day of Tarwiyah in Mina, engaging in prayers and spiritual preparations. Due to intense heat, most pilgrims remained inside their tents during the day, while activity in the camps increased in the cooler evening hours as temperatures became more bearable.
According to reports, around two million pilgrims from across the world are currently present in Mina, including a large number from Pakistan. The pilgrims offered Dhuhr and Asr prayers in Mina before beginning their gradual movement toward the plains of Arafat in the evening.
As night approached, the first groups of pilgrims started their journey from Mina to Arafat, marking a crucial transition in the Hajj pilgrimage.
Today, on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims will gather in the plains of Arafat to perform Waqoof-e-Arafat, the central pillar of Hajj. All pilgrims are expected to reach Arafat before the Dhuhr prayer, where they will listen to the historic Hajj sermon delivered from Masjid-e-Nimrah.
According to the official Hajj schedule, the sermon will be delivered by Imam Sheikh Abdul Rahman Al-Hudaify of Masjid al-Nabawi. After the sermon and combined prayers, pilgrims will leave Arafat after sunset and proceed to Muzdalifah, where they will spend the night under the open sky in worship and reflection.
Saudi meteorological authorities have warned that temperatures in Mina and Arafat may reach around 45°C, making heat stress a major concern for pilgrims during the peak rituals of Hajj.
In response, Saudi authorities have strengthened arrangements for pilgrims’ safety and comfort, including expanded shaded areas, cooling mist fans, and enhanced medical facilities across holy sites. Pilgrims have also been advised to stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, and strictly follow official guidelines to ensure their safety.
The Day of Arafat is considered the spiritual peak of Hajj, where millions of Muslims stand in prayer and supplication, seeking forgiveness and mercy. It is regarded as one of the most significant days in the Islamic calendar, symbolizing unity, devotion, and submission to Allah.
