From around dawn on the ninth day of Zil Hijjah, pilgrims arrived at Arafat for Wuquf Arafah — the standing at Arafat — regarded as the spiritual climax of Hajj.

Worshippers will remain within the sacred site until sunset, and spend the day in Qur’an recitation, remembrance of God and prayers for forgiveness.

The ritual holds central importance in Islam, with the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) having said: “Hajj is Arafah.”

The day is considered among the holiest in the Islamic calendar and is associated with mercy, repentance and spiritual renewal.

At midday, pilgrims will listen to the Hajj sermon at Masjid Al Namirah before performing the Zuhar and Asr prayers combined in line with the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Throughout the day, pilgrims recite the Talbiyah and Takbeer and seek forgiveness.

Arafat is an open plain dominated by Jabal Al Rahmah, or the Mount of Mercy, where many pilgrims offer prayers.

The site carries deep religious significance in Islamic tradition and is linked to the Farewell Pilgrimage of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in AD 632, during which he delivered his final sermon, outlining the principles of justice, equality and the sanctity of life and property.

Saudi authorities implemented extensive crowd management and safety measures across the holy sites, deploying medical teams, transportation services and emergency response units to facilitate the movement of pilgrims.

Health officials also urged worshippers to remain hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight amid temperatures climbing above 45 degrees Celsius.

After sunset, pilgrims will start departing for Muzdalifah, where they will offer combined Maghrib and Isha prayers and spend the night before continuing Hajj rituals, including the symbolic stoning ceremony.