Millions of Hajj Pilgrims Begin Journey to Muzdalifah

Pilgrims performing Hajj began departing from the Plain of Arafat to Muzdalifah at sunset on the ninth day of Dhu al-Hijjah, after completing the standing at Arafat, the most significant ritual of the annual pilgrimage.

The movement of pilgrims took place under extensive organisational, health and security measures implemented by the government of Saudi Arabia to ensure a smooth and safe journey for worshippers.

Upon arriving in Muzdalifah, pilgrims perform the Maghrib and Isha prayers together in accordance with the tradition of Prophet Muhammad, before spending the night there ahead of the next stage of Hajj rituals.

On the morning of Eid al-Adha, pilgrims will head to Mina to perform the symbolic stoning of the Jamarat and offer sacrificial animals as part of the pilgrimage rites.

The departure from Arafat to Muzdalifah marks the third major stage of the Hajj journey through Islam’s holy sites, with Saudi authorities reporting smooth movement and high operational readiness across transportation and crowd-management systems.