Pilgrims to leave for Arafat tonight: Minister Shaheem

Maldivian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia will depart for Arafat tonight, Islamic Minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed said today.

In a post on social media, the minister said 1,000 Maldivian pilgrims have safely arrived in Mina and are in good health as they prepare to move to Arafat.

The pilgrims were warmly welcomed in Mina, and President Dr Mohamed Muizzu noted that this year, Maldivians were provided with “high category” tents. The Islamic Ministry also said that the tents designated for Maldivians will not be shared with pilgrims from other countries.

The Saudi Hajj Ministry has advised all pilgrims to remain in their tents between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm tomorrow due to extreme heat, as temperatures are expected to soar.

Arafat Day is considered the pinnacle of the Hajj pilgrimage, where pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat and its surroundings to pray, reflect, and perform various acts of worship.