Arafat, Saudi Arabia, May 26, 2026:

Hundreds of thousands of Muslim pilgrims gathered at the rocky Mount Arafat, also known as the Mountain of Mercy, at sunrise on Tuesday to mark Arafah Day, considered the most important day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

Pilgrims dressed in simple white garments spent the day praying, reciting verses from the Holy Quran, and seeking forgiveness in one of Islam’s most sacred rituals. Mount Arafat holds deep religious significance as it is believed to be the place where Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) delivered his final sermon more than 1,400 years ago.

Arafah Day falls on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar. Muslims believe that prayers offered on this day are especially powerful and that sincere repentance brings forgiveness of sins.

After sunset, pilgrims are expected to travel to Muzdalifah, where they will collect pebbles before heading to Mina for the symbolic stoning ritual, another important part of the Hajj journey.

The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is mandatory once in a lifetime for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey.

Source: Reuters