More than 1.6 million Muslim pilgrims gathered on Tuesday at Mount Arafat, also known as Mount Mercy, to mark the most significant day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
Pilgrims assembled on the Plain of Arafat for hours of prayer and reflection in what is considered the spiritual climax of the Islamic pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam and the holiest event in the Muslim calendar.
Saudi authorities urged pilgrims to remain hydrated and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight as temperatures were expected to exceed 45 degrees Celsius during the day.
The Hajj pilgrimage officially began on Monday with worshippers arriving in Mina, west of Mecca, and is set to continue for six days.
Authorities in the kingdom have intensified security and organisational measures this year, deploying advanced crowd-monitoring systems aimed at preventing overcrowding and restricting unauthorised access to holy sites.
Egyptian pilgrims were among the millions participating in this year’s Hajj, with Egyptian authorities coordinating closely with Saudi officials to ensure smooth transportation, accommodation and medical support for pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage season.
Officials from Egypt said mission teams accompanying Egyptian pilgrims had been deployed across the holy sites to provide assistance and follow up on health conditions amid the extreme heat.
Hajj draws Muslims from around the world each year to perform a series of religious rituals in and around Mecca, culminating in prayers at Arafat, where Prophet Muhammad is believed to have delivered his farewell sermon.
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