Over 1.6 Million Pilgrims Gather at Sacred Arafat

More than 1.6 million pilgrims gathered on the Plain of Arafat on Tuesday for the most important and spiritually significant stage of the Hajj pilgrimage, as worshippers devoted the day to prayer, reflection and seeking forgiveness.

From early morning on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims moved to Arafat, where they spent the day in worship, recitation of the Qur’an and remembrance of Allah, remaining within the sacred site until sunset.

The gathering at Arafat, known as Wuquf Arafah, is regarded as the central rite of Hajj and is considered the spiritual climax of the pilgrimage. In Islamic tradition, the significance of the day is reflected in the saying of Prophet Muhammad: “Hajj is Arafah.”

Islamic scholars describe the day as one of the holiest occasions in the Islamic calendar, symbolising mercy, forgiveness and spiritual renewal. It also commemorates the Farewell Pilgrimage of Prophet Muhammad in 632 AD, during which he delivered his final sermon at Mount Arafat, outlining principles of justice, equality and the sanctity of human life.

Pilgrims listened to the Arafah sermon, which offered religious guidance and highlighted the virtues and significance of the day. They later performed the Dhuhr and Asr prayers together in accordance with established Hajj practices.

Throughout the day, worshippers raised their hands in prayer, recited Talbiyah and Takbeer, and sought blessings in an atmosphere marked by deep devotion and humility.

Arafat, located around 20 kilometres southeast of Makkah, includes Jabal Al-Rahmah, or the Mount of Mercy, where many pilgrims gather for prayer and contemplation. The site holds deep symbolic significance in Islamic tradition.

The movement to Arafat followed the Day of Tarwiyah in Mina, where pilgrims spent time preparing spiritually and physically for the most important phase of Hajj.

Saudi authorities implemented extensive operational measures, including crowd management systems, transport services, healthcare support and emergency response arrangements to ensure smooth movement and safety at the holy sites.

Health officials also remained on alert as temperatures exceeded 45 degrees Celsius, urging pilgrims to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

After sunset, pilgrims began leaving Arafat for Muzdalifah, where they were scheduled to combine the Maghrib and Isha prayers before spending the night in worship and rest ahead of the next Hajj rituals.