On Thursday, pilgrims gathered at Mount Arafat for Arafat Day, which marks the spiritual zenith of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, taking place on the outskirts of Makkah, Saudi Arabia.

This significant event attracts Muslims from all over the world, with more than two million participants recorded this year.

In response to soaring temperatures exceeding 40°C, Saudi authorities have advised pilgrims to limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, specifically from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Comprehensive safety measures have been implemented to manage the crowd effectively and prevent overcrowding, including stringent penalties for unauthorized visitors.

Hajj, an obligatory act for all Muslims with the means to undertake it, is one of the five pillars of Islam.

This year’s pilgrimage commenced earlier in the week, culminating in the gathering at Arafat, where worshippers reflect and pray in commemoration of the Prophet Mohammed's final sermon.

According to reports, 2,443 pilgrims, selected from 100 countries under the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Guests Programme, have been accommodated at Arafat.

This initiative, organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, along with other government entities, aims to provide extensive spiritual and logistical support to ensure a fulfilling pilgrimage experience.

Arafat Day, occurring on the ninth of Dhu Al Hijja, is among the holiest days in the Islamic calendar.

Worshippers observe the ritual of wuquf, which entails standing in prayer and devotion.

This act is considered the essential pillar of Hajj, and the pilgrimage is considered incomplete without it.

For Muslims unable to perform Hajj, Arafat Day signifies a time for fasting, worship, and self-reflection, with the belief that fasting on this day expiates sins of the past and forthcoming year.

In several Muslim-majority nations, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Arafat Day is designated as a public holiday, preceding Eid Al Adha, which is celebrated this year from June 6 to June 8.