Millions of pilgrims gather at Arafat for spiritual peak of hajj
Known in Islamic tradition as the core ritual of Hajj, the gathering at Arafat, called Wuquf Arafah, is regarded as the pilgrimage’s defining moment
More than 1.6 million Muslim pilgrims assembled today (26 May) at the Plain of Arafat for the most significant spiritual stage of the Hajj pilgrimage, according to reports from the Saudi Press Agency.
Beginning at dawn on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah, worshippers made their way to Arafat, where they devoted the day to prayer, reciting the Qur'an, remembering God and offering supplications. Pilgrims remained within the sacred boundaries of the site until sunset.
Known in Islamic tradition as the core ritual of Hajj, the gathering at Arafat, called Wuquf Arafah, is regarded as the pilgrimage's defining moment.
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Prophet Muhammad emphasized its importance by stating, "Hajj is Arafah."
Religious scholars describe the occasion as one of the holiest days in Islam, associated with mercy, forgiveness and spiritual purification.
The day also commemorates the Farewell Pilgrimage of Prophet Muhammad in AD 632, when he delivered his final sermon at Mount Arafat, stressing justice, equality and the protection of life and property.
At midday, pilgrims listened to the Arafah sermon, which offered spiritual guidance and highlighted the virtues of the sacred day.
Worshippers later combined and shortened the Dhuhr and Asr prayers in accordance with the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad.
Throughout the day, pilgrims engaged in prayer, recited the Talbiyah and Takbeer and sought forgiveness in a deeply reflective and humble atmosphere.
Located around 20 kilometers southeast of Makkah, Arafat is a vast plain centered around Jabal Al-Rahmah, also known as the Mount of Mercy, where many pilgrims gather for contemplation and worship.
Islamic tradition links the site to the reunion of Adam and Eve, giving it profound spiritual significance for Muslims around the world.
The journey to Arafat followed the Day of Tarwiyah in Mina, where pilgrims spent yesterday (25 May) preparing mentally and physically for the most demanding stage of Hajj.
Saudi officials implemented extensive operational measures to ensure pilgrims' safety and smooth movement, including crowd management systems, transportation services, healthcare support and emergency response teams across the holy sites.
Health authorities also remained vigilant as temperatures climbed above 45 degrees Celsius, advising pilgrims to stay hydrated and minimize direct exposure to the sun.
After sunset, pilgrims departed Arafat for Muzdalifah, where they were expected to combine and shorten the Maghrib and Isha prayers before spending the night resting and worshipping ahead of the symbolic stoning ritual.
