PM:12:00:05/06/2025
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about 1.5 million pilgrims from around the world gathered at the Plain of ‘Arafah, east of Mecca, to perform the most important pillar of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Saudi Hajj and Umrah authorities earlier urged pilgrims to remain inside their tents from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to protect themselves from direct sun exposure during the scorching midday hours.
The Plain of ‘Arafah lies approximately 22 kilometers from Mecca on the road to Taif, about 10 kilometers from Mina and 6 kilometers from Muzdalifah. Pilgrims arrived here after departing from Mina on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah, a key point in the Islamic lunar calendar.
Standing at ‘Arafah — even briefly and in any physical posture — is a mandatory act, without which the Hajj is invalid. The standing (wuquf) begins after the noon prayer and continues until sunset, with pilgrims devoting the time to prayer, reflection, and seeking forgiveness.
This mass gathering symbolizes the peak of Hajj and the unity of Muslims from all corners of the world.