Latest news with #SaudiMinistryofHajjandUmrah
Time of India
21 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
What Hajj and Eid al-Adha mean to muslims: A journey of faith and sacrifice in Islam
What Hajj and Eid al-Adha mean to muslims: A journey of faith and sacrifice in Islam Each year, millions of Muslims from across the globe gather in Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj, the holy pilgrimage to Mecca that represents one of the five central pillars of Islam. It is not merely a physical journey but a profound spiritual awakening—an act of devotion, equality, and renewal. For many pilgrims, Hajj is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, one that requires months, if not years, of planning, saving, and spiritual preparation. According to The Economic Times report, this year, Hajj 2025 will begin on Wednesday, June 4, coinciding with the 8th day of Dhul-Hijja, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. As global travel stabilizes after recent years of pandemic-induced restrictions, Saudi authorities are expecting a record turnout of over 2 million pilgrims, bringing heightened focus on crowd safety, heat management, and accessibility for elderly and disabled worshippers. The Hajj continues to hold enormous religious, social, and emotional significance for Muslims worldwide. What is the Hajj and why is it important Hajj is an obligatory pilgrimage for every Muslim who is physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey at least once in their lifetime. It is rooted in events dating back over 4,000 years, linked to the stories of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), his wife Hagar, and their son Ismail. For Muslims, Hajj symbolizes surrender to the will of God, spiritual rebirth, and unity among believers. The pilgrimage is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, alongside: Shahada (faith in one God), Salah (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting during Ramadan). By performing the Hajj, pilgrims aim to cleanse themselves of past sins, deepen their relationship with God, and demonstrate solidarity with the global Muslim community (ummah). When is Hajj 2025 taking place The Hajj follows the Islamic lunar calendar, and its dates vary each year. In 2025, it is expected to start on the evening of June 4 and end on June 9 or 10, depending on moon sightings. These days correspond to the 8th to 13th of Dhul-Hijja, the twelfth month in the Islamic calendar. Due to the desert climate of Mecca, Hajj occurring in early June means temperatures may soar above 45°C (113°F). As per The Economic Times report, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged pilgrims to take precautions against heatstroke and dehydration, especially when performing outdoor rituals like the Standing at Arafat and the Stoning of the Devil (Ramy al-Jamarat) in Mina. Major rituals performed during Hajj Pilgrims must complete several rites in a set order, with each carrying deep religious symbolism: 1. Ihram – The State of Purity Before entering Mecca, pilgrims don the Ihram garments—white seamless cloth for men and simple modest attire for women—to signal spiritual purity and equality before God. While in this state, pilgrims must avoid arguments, vanity, and any worldly distractions. 2. Tawaf – Circling the Kaaba Upon arriving in the Grand Mosque in Mecca, pilgrims perform Tawaf, which involves walking around the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction. The Kaaba is considered the holiest structure in Islam, and this act symbolizes unity in worship and submission to God. 3. Sa'i – Walking Between Safa and Marwah This ritual commemorates Hagar's desperate search for water for her son, Ismail. Pilgrims walk briskly between the two small hills of Safa and Marwah seven times, retracing her path. 4. Arafat – The Day of Standing Perhaps the most important part of the Hajj, pilgrims gather at the Plain of Arafat on the 9th of Dhul-Hijja. Here, they pray and reflect from noon until sunset, asking for forgiveness in what is seen as a rehearsal for the Day of Judgment. 5. Muzdalifah – Night Under the Stars After sunset, pilgrims travel to Muzdalifah, a plain between Arafat and Mina, to spend the night under the open sky. They also collect pebbles here for the next day's ritual. 6. Ramy al-Jamarat – The Stoning of the Devil On the 10th of Dhul-Hijja, pilgrims throw pebbles at three stone pillars in Mina, representing Satan. This act reenacts Prophet Ibrahim's rejection of Satan's temptation. 7. Qurbani (Sacrifice) This day also marks the Eid al-Adha celebration. Pilgrims perform the ritual slaughter of an animal, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The meat is distributed among the poor. 8. Tawaf al-Ifadah and Farewell Tawaf After returning to Mecca, pilgrims perform another round of Tawaf and complete final rites before returning home spiritually renewed. Eid al-Adha: A festival of sacrifice and compassion Eid al-Adha begins on the 10th of Dhul-Hijja and coincides with the Hajj. Muslims around the world commemorate Prophet Ibrahim's test of faith. Families sacrifice an animal—typically a sheep, goat, or cow—and distribute the meat in three parts: for the family, relatives, and the poor. The holiday is a time for festivity, generosity, and community prayers, reminding believers of the values of selflessness, obedience, and gratitude. Safety and health measures for Hajj 2025 With record temperatures expected, Saudi authorities have implemented key measures to ensure pilgrim safety: Cooling stations with mist sprays and shade zones. Distribution of free water bottles, umbrellas, and hydration kits. Over 30,000 health workers and 5,000 hospital beds allocated specifically for Hajj-related emergencies. Special tracking bracelets for elderly pilgrims to monitor health and prevent loss. Electronic permit systems to control crowd flow and prevent unauthorized pilgrims from joining. Hajj 2025: Pilgrim limits, permit process, and new tech for muslim travelers Each Muslim-majority country is allocated a Hajj quota based on its population. In 2025, over 180 countries are participating, with Indonesia, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh receiving the largest quotas. Pilgrims must apply for Hajj permits through official government portals, and all travelers must be vaccinated and physically fit. This year, the Hajj Smart App will help pilgrims with navigation, real-time updates, multilingual support, and emergency contact assistance. Hajj: A spiritual journey that transcends borders Hajj is more than a religious obligation—it is a global manifestation of Muslim unity, humility, and submission to God. People from vastly different cultures walk side by side, dressed identically, performing the same rituals. This unique pilgrimage breaks down social barriers and leaves participants with a sense of deep spiritual accomplishment. As pilgrims return from Mecca, they are often referred to as 'Hajji,' carrying newfound wisdom and renewed faith. For millions who cannot make the journey this year, Hajj remains a spiritual aspiration that reflects the heart of Islamic devotion.
The Sun
a day ago
- The Sun
Smooth and seamless Hajj journey for pilgrims, says official
MAKKAH: The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has expressed its commitment to ensuring a smooth and seamless experience for all pilgrims during this year's Hajj season, with meticulous planning and round-the-clock monitoring of all operational indicators. Assistant Undersecretary for Pilgrims and Umrah Services at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Mohammad Ali Batouk, said the ministry's dedicated operations centre plays a crucial role in enhancing public relations and coordinating services to cater to the needs of pilgrims from around the world. Speaking during a media visit, Dr Mohammad explained that the ministry tracks every phase of the pilgrims' journey, from the initial visa issuance to flight arrangements, airport arrival, transportation, and accommodation, as well as the readiness of lodging facilities. 'The centre carefully follows all these operational indicators to make the pilgrimage journey smooth and seamless. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that pilgrims can perform their religious rites comfortably and with peace of mind,' he said. The centre also works closely with various sectors of the ministry and communicates directly with service providers to enhance the quality of services offered. Dr Mohammad emphasised that feedback from pilgrims is taken seriously, and any issues raised are addressed immediately to minimise disruptions. 'These operations are monitored 24/7, starting from the last Hajj season until the end of the current one, inshallah. We are dedicated to resolving any challenges and ensuring that the pilgrims' experience is positive,' he added. During the briefing, representatives from international media raised questions about measures to address illegal pilgrims. Dr Mohammad assured that the ministry, along with related departments, is fully engaged in managing permits and maintaining discipline among service providers and pilgrims alike. 'The measures we have in place aim to guarantee that only authorised pilgrims receive services, thereby upholding the integrity of the pilgrimage and ensuring a safe and well-organised Hajj,' he said. He further noted that updates on pilgrim arrivals and related information are published daily on the ministry's official social media accounts. More than two million pilgrims are expected to perform Hajj this year.
The Sun
a day ago
- The Sun
Smooth and seamless Hajj journey for pilgrims
MAKKAH: The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has expressed its commitment to ensuring a smooth and seamless experience for all pilgrims during this year's Hajj season, with meticulous planning and round-the-clock monitoring of all operational indicators. Assistant Undersecretary for Pilgrims and Umrah Services at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Mohammad Ali Batouk, said the ministry's dedicated operations centre plays a crucial role in enhancing public relations and coordinating services to cater to the needs of pilgrims from around the world. Speaking during a media visit, Dr Mohammad explained that the ministry tracks every phase of the pilgrims' journey, from the initial visa issuance to flight arrangements, airport arrival, transportation, and accommodation, as well as the readiness of lodging facilities. 'The centre carefully follows all these operational indicators to make the pilgrimage journey smooth and seamless. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that pilgrims can perform their religious rites comfortably and with peace of mind,' he said. The centre also works closely with various sectors of the ministry and communicates directly with service providers to enhance the quality of services offered. Dr Mohammad emphasised that feedback from pilgrims is taken seriously, and any issues raised are addressed immediately to minimise disruptions. 'These operations are monitored 24/7, starting from the last Hajj season until the end of the current one, inshallah. We are dedicated to resolving any challenges and ensuring that the pilgrims' experience is positive,' he added. During the briefing, representatives from international media raised questions about measures to address illegal pilgrims. Dr Mohammad assured that the ministry, along with related departments, is fully engaged in managing permits and maintaining discipline among service providers and pilgrims alike. 'The measures we have in place aim to guarantee that only authorised pilgrims receive services, thereby upholding the integrity of the pilgrimage and ensuring a safe and well-organised Hajj,' he said. He further noted that updates on pilgrim arrivals and related information are published daily on the ministry's official social media accounts. More than two million pilgrims are expected to perform Hajj this year.
Observer
3 days ago
- Observer
Omani mission participates in Haj symposium
JEDDAH: The Omani Haj mission took part in the 49th edition of the Grand Hajj Symposium, organised by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in collaboration with the Council of Senior Scholars and King Abdulaziz Foundation. Held under the theme "Capability in Hajj and Contemporary Developments," the event took place at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Jeddah. Since its inception in 1397 AH (1977), the symposium has served as a leading knowledge platform, fostering scholarly and intellectual exchange among Islamic scholars and thinkers. It focuses on the religious, cultural, and social dimensions of Hajj, highlights Saudi Arabia's achievements in serving the guests of the Most Merciful and showcases pioneering projects in the Two Holy Mosques. Additionally, it promotes intellectual dialogue to address challenges facing the Islamic world. The symposium commenced with a special meeting for heads of Hajj affairs offices from various Islamic countries, including the Omani delegation, to discuss coordination and cooperation in serving pilgrims. The opening session featured welcoming remarks, followed by the first main session, titled "Facilitating the Ritual and Empowering Pilgrims: Saudi Arabia's Vision in Serving Hajj Performers." This session highlighted the Kingdom's efforts in streamlining pilgrims' journeys — from arrival to departure — providing integrated healthcare, and ensuring their safety through security measures and regulatory permits. It also reviewed infrastructure development projects in Makkah and the holy sites. The second session, "The Concept of Capability in Islam and Its Role in Facilitating Hajj," discussed topics such as physical and financial capability (istita'ah) and the importance of educating pilgrims on its jurisprudential aspects. On the sidelines of the symposium, specialised workshops were held, with participation from the Omani Hajj mission, including sessions on healthcare services and media and awareness. These aimed to enhance service quality for pilgrims and craft a global narrative for Hajj. The event concluded with a final statement emphasising the need for stronger cooperation among Islamic nations to serve pilgrims and address contemporary challenges. — ONA
Arab Times
3 days ago
- Arab Times
Pilgrims urged to stay in camps from 10 am to 4 pm on the Day of Arafah
JEDDAH, June 1: The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on Saturday urged pilgrims to remain in their camps on the Day of Arafat between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., advising them to avoid visiting Jabal al-Rahmah and Namirah Mosque to protect themselves from the intense sun and high temperatures. In a statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the ministry emphasized the importance of adhering strictly to the approved grouping schedules set by the relevant authorities and warned against violating these schedules during all phases of movement between the holy sites. The ministry also called on pilgrims to use only authorized transportation methods within the designated routes at the holy sites and discouraged walking between locations during the specified time frame. Highlighting its intensified efforts this Hajj season, the ministry assured that its services are fully prepared to help pilgrims perform their rituals comfortably and safely, despite the challenging high temperatures at the holy sites. Pilgrims were also reminded to keep their "Nusuk" cards on hand and present them when requested. The ministry stressed that carrying the card at all times during their stay in the holy sites is mandatory, as it serves as a crucial identification document that facilitates locating pilgrims and providing assistance if needed. The ministry urged all pilgrims to follow these instructions closely to ensure the safety and well-being of all guests of God.
