As the celebrations for Eid Al Adha approach, Hajj pilgrims continue their spiritual journey in Saudi Arabia. More than 1.8 million Muslims participated in the Day of Arafat, ascending Mount Arafat amidst scorching temperatures.
Despite the intense heat, thousands of individuals, both men and women, stood on the granite hill where Prophet Mohammed delivered his final sermon. Many used umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun’s rays, which reached up to 48ºC.
Expressing gratitude, one pilgrim named Eman Ali remarked, “It’s extremely hot, but we are lucky to be here. We are very blessed and we don’t take that for granted.”
During the sermon delivered at Namirah Mosque, Hajj preacher Sheikh Yousef bin Mohammed called for unity and peaceful prayer, urging Muslims to avoid conflict. Sheikh Yousef emphasized that Islam does not support racism, stating, “The difference in languages, colors, and ethnicities does not justify falling into discords and divisions.”
His sermon was translated into 20 languages and broadcasted in Arabic, with simultaneous sign language interpretation. Millions of pilgrims listened attentively, while many more observed from various parts of the world.
After combining their dhuhr and asr prayers, the pilgrims proceeded to Muzdalifah, where they will spend the night. There, they will collect pebbles to be used in the stoning of the devil on the first day of Eid Al Adha. Subsequently, they will return to the Grand Mosque in Makkah for a final circumambulation of the Kaaba.
It is recommended for worshippers to gather 70 pebbles to cast at three pillars representing where the devil appeared to Prophet Ibrahim.
Tasneem Gamal, a 35-year-old Egyptian schoolteacher, expressed her overwhelming emotions, stating, “I cannot describe my feelings. I am living a great joy.” She is performing Hajj without a male guardian, as the Saudi authorities lifted this requirement in 2021. Additionally, this year, the maximum age limit has been removed, allowing thousands of elderly Muslims to attend.
Health workers remain vigilant for cases of heatstroke and exhaustion, as the temperatures pose health risks. The Ministry of Health has alerted pilgrims to the dangers of heat stress and advised them to use umbrellas, stay hydrated, avoid physical strain, and follow health guidelines to prevent heat-related problems.
Hospitals near Arafat are fully prepared to provide medical care, with over 900 beds made available for cases of sunstroke, heat exhaustion, and emergencies.
As helicopters hover overhead, the roads leading to the pilgrimage site are crowded with worshippers. The Ministry of Health also reminded that outdoor labor is prohibited between 12 pm and 3 pm in Saudi Arabia during June to September to protect workers from the extreme heat.
With deep gratitude, American engineer Ahmed Ahmadine, 37, shared, “I try to focus on praying for my family and friends. This is an opportunity that will not be repeated.”
