Over 1.5 million Muslims from around 180 countries commenced prayers on Mount Arafat on Saturday, marking the “Day of Arafah,” the pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage. This significant event occurs on the ninth day of Zil Hajj, following the start of Hajj 1445 from the tent city of Mina on the Day of Tarwiyah.
Pilgrims have arrived at Jabal al-Rahmah, approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Makkah, where Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) delivered his final sermon. The congregation, including at least 160,000 Pakistanis, braves soaring temperatures as they gather for the Hajj sermon at Masjid-e-Nimrah, translated into 50 languages including Urdu. The sermon will be delivered by Sheikh Maher Al Muaiqly, an imam at the Grand Mosque in Makkah.
After prayers at Arafah, pilgrims will travel to Muzdalifah at sunset, where they will perform the Maghrib and Isha prayers, followed by the Rami al-Jamarat ritual in Mina on Sunday. They will then return to Makkah for Eid ul Adha and sacrificial rites.
Challenging Heat
Temperatures during the Hajj are expected to reach 43°C, making the pilgrimage particularly challenging. Saudi authorities advise pilgrims to stay hydrated and use sun protection, especially as men cannot wear hats. Last year, more than 10,000 heat-related illnesses were reported, with 10% being heat stroke.
Despite the intense heat, pilgrims like 60-year-old Mohammed Farouk from Pakistan express the importance of Hajj in their faith. The event is not only a significant religious gathering but also a major financial boon for Saudi Arabia, which is expanding religious tourism to reduce its reliance on oil.
Financial Windfall and Safety Measures
The Hajj pilgrimage brings substantial revenue to Saudi Arabia, attracting over 1.8 million pilgrims last year and 13.5 million Umrah visitors. The kingdom aims to welcome 30 million religious tourists annually by 2030.
This year’s Hajj occurs amid the Gaza conflict, adding a somber note to the event. Saudi authorities emphasize maintaining peace, having sealed 160 fake Hajj service establishments and detained 6,135 violators of residency rules to ensure the safety and orderliness of the pilgrimage.
Successful First Stage
The Saudi Interior Ministry confirmed the successful completion of the first stage of Hajj 1445, with the smooth transfer of pilgrims to Mina according to schedule. Authorities remain vigilant against any disruptions to the pilgrimage’s sanctity and security.
