Pilgrims Fill Tent City as Arafat Prepares for Key Hajj Rite
The tent city of Mina, considered the world's largest, sprang back to life on Wednesday as nearly two million Muslims began their Hajj journey, marking the Day of Tarwiyah in spiritual preparation for the days ahead.
Pilgrims, dressed in simple white garments, filled the sprawling encampment that is inhabited only during the annual Islamic pilgrimage. They spent the day in prayer and reflection, seeking closeness to God, forgiveness, and acceptance, following the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad.
At dawn on Thursday, the mass of worshippers moved to Mount Arafat for the pinnacle of the Hajj – the Day of Arafat – considered the most significant ritual of the pilgrimage. There, pilgrims will stand in solemn prayer on the sacred plain, performing shortened and combined noon and afternoon prayers after listening to the Arafat sermon.
This year's sermon at Namira Mosque will be delivered by Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Humaid, Imam of the Grand Mosque in Makkah. The Presidency for Religious Affairs at the Two Holy Mosques has made the sermon accessible in seven languages through real-time translations, aiming to reach a global audience.
Moreover, Saudi authorities have deployed extensive security, medical, food supply, and transport services to ease the journey for nearly two million pilgrims performing Hajj this year, emphasizing safety, organization, and spiritual focus.
The Saudi leadership reaffirmed the importance of coordinated efforts by all government and service agencies to ensure the success of the pilgrimage season and to provide a tranquil and secure environment for worshippers.
Health Minister Fahad Abdulrahman AlJalajel inspected Arafat's Jabal Al-Rahma Hospital on Wednesday, reviewing emergency facilities, medical departments, and the readiness of healthcare personnel. The visit aimed to ensure high-quality medical services and a safe environment for pilgrims as they prepare for the pivotal Day of Arafat.
The health system continues to ramp up efforts to enhance readiness and deliver integrated care across all Hajj sites, aiming to maintain safety and wellbeing throughout the pilgrimage.
With temperatures soaring across Makkah and the holy sites during the Hajj season, Saudi Arabia's Health Ministry has urged pilgrims to take extra precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
The ministry advised worshippers to carry umbrellas, stay well-hydrated, wear comfortable walking shoes, and use medical ID bracelets indicating any health conditions.
Officials warned that extreme heat could cause sunstroke and lead to loss of consciousness in as little as 10 to 15 minutes if proper precautions are not taken.
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