Pilgrims prepare for Arafat as Hajj commences in Mina
Mina, located in the heart of Makkah, is a central hub for Hajj rituals, where pilgrims gather to perform Hajj rituals of remembrance and supplication, reciting the Talbiyah frequently.
On the Day of Tarwiyah, pilgrims spend their time in Mina, reciting remembrance, glorifying, and declaring Allahu Akbar (God is Greatest), and performing the five daily prayers, shortened without combining them, in accordance with the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings of God be upon him).
Pilgrims spend the night in Mina on the night of Tarwiyah, preparing spiritually and psychologically for the journey to Arafat on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah, where the Great Stand (Waqfa al-Kubra), the greatest pillar of Hajj, will take place. The name "Tarwiyah" is associated with the Prophet Mohammad's replenishment of water before performing the rituals.
After the Day of Tarwiyah, standing in Arafat, and spending the night in Muzdalifah, pilgrims return to Mina to throw the pebbles at Jamarat al-Aqaba on the day of Eid. They then spend the Days of Tashreeq performing the rituals, including stoning the three Jamarat (stones) daily from noon until sunset. Spending the nights of Tashreeq in Mina during the Nights of Tashreeq is obligatory, except for those who have a legitimate need to leave. These days are an opportunity for pilgrims to complete the Hajj rituals in an atmosphere of contemplation and remembrance.
Mina is located 7 kilometers northeast of the Grand Mosque, within the boundaries of the Sacred Mosque in Mecca. It extends through a valley surrounded by mountains to the north and south, giving it a distinct geographical character. It is bordered to the Makkah side by Jamarat al-Aqaba, and to the Muzdalifah side by Wadi Muhsir. Mina is a designated place for performing Hajj rituals, as it is only inhabited during the Hajj season, making it a symbol that unites Muslims from all over the world.
Mina is also a temporary city equipped with the latest facilities to accommodate millions of pilgrims. It includes air-conditioned camps, sanitary facilities, medical services, and security to ensure the comfort and safety of the guests of God.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Times of Oman
05-08-2025
- Times of Oman
Omani Hajj Mission reports 96% satisfaction rate with services in Mina, Arafat camps
Muscat: The Omani Hajj Mission for 1446 AH confirmed that the satisfaction rate with this year's Hajj season, in terms of overall services provided in the Mina and Arafat camps, reached 96%, compared to 89% in the 1445 AH season. This was announced during a press conference held by Ahmed Saleh Al Rashdi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs and head of the Hajj Mission for 1446 AH. During the press conference, held at the ministry, he stated that the satisfaction rate among pilgrims regarding the performance of Hajj and Umrah companies in Makkah Al-Mukarramah and Al Madinah Al Munawwarah—covering awareness campaigns, guidance, logistical services, and catering—reached 98%. Meanwhile, satisfaction with security services stood at 100%, and healthcare services at 99% during the 1446 AH Hajj season. He added that satisfaction with the electronic registration system for Omani pilgrims reached 99%, while satisfaction with entry and exit services through land and air ports was 97.6%. He noted that 5,122 pilgrims traveled via the land route, while 8,878 used air travel, achieving a 100% fulfillment rate with a total of 14,000 pilgrims. He also highlighted several key initiatives during the 1446 AH Hajj season, including the "Endowment for the House of Ribat" initiative, which benefited over 150 pilgrims with a total amount exceeding RO 150,000. Additionally, the mobile cart initiative to assist elderly and disabled pilgrims in performing Tawaf and Sa'i served 450 pilgrims.
Observer
21-07-2025
- Observer
Bukhari feted for selfless service with global human rights award
MUSCAT: Syed Shaandar Ali Shah Bukhari, a well-known social worker in Muscat, has been awarded a Certificate of Appreciation by the International Human Rights Movement (IHRM). The prestigious recognition honours Bukhari's tireless efforts in humanitarian work, including the repatriation of prisoners, aiding the disabled, assisting in returning deceased individuals to their home countries, facilitating blood donations and supporting the underprivileged. A silent force of good in the community, Bukhari has long worked without seeking recognition, guided by a deep sense of duty and empathy. This award, he says, is more than a personal achievement - it is a continuation of a legacy of service passed down by his late father, a revered figure in Oman's social welfare circles. At the heart of Bukhari's work are the teachings of Islam and the enduring words of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): 'Whoever alleviates the suffering of a believer, Allah will alleviate their suffering on the Day of Judgment.' His approach has always been inclusive — reaching out to those in need regardless of background, status, or belief. 'Oman has given me so much, and I want to give back through charity. This recognition from IHRM is a tribute to the generosity of this nation, its leadership and its people,' said Bukhari. He expressed hope that his efforts would reflect the spirit of Oman's humanitarian traditions and inspire others to give back in their own ways. This award also stands as a homage to his late father's teachings. 'My father always taught me that true wealth is not measured by possessions, but by the positive change you bring to others' lives,' he said. The IHRM plays a key role in recognising and supporting individuals who exemplify the spirit of humanitarian service. This recognition was made possible with the support of IHRM President Rana Basharat Ali and Ambassador M Nadeem Raza. As Bukhari continues his mission, he hopes to inspire a new generation of changemakers: 'We all have the power to make a difference. Whether it's a small gesture or a large act of kindness, every action counts.'
Times of Oman
26-06-2025
- Times of Oman
Kaaba Kiswa replaced as Hijri Year 1447 begins
Mecca: The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque today held the ceremonial changing of the Kiswa, the black silk covering of the Holy Kaaba, in observance of the start of the Islamic year 1447 AH. The new Kiswa, weighing 1,415 kilograms and measuring 14 metres, has been installed. It consists of four separate sides and the curtain of the door. The belt of the Kiswa comprises 16 pieces, in addition to seven pieces below the belt, 17 lanterns beneath the belt, four panels inscribed with Surat Al-Ikhlas (a Qur'anic verse), and one piece representing the decoration of the mizab (water spout). The Kiswa consumes around 825 kilograms of raw silk, dyed black within the complex, 120 kilograms of gold-plated silver threads, 60 kilograms of pure silver threads and 410 kilograms of raw cotton.
