All Maldivian pilgrims participating in this year's Hajj pilgrimage have successfully arrived in Arafat, one of the most significant stages of the pilgrimage.
Hajj Corporation Managing Director Mohamed Shakeel said that all 1,000 Maldivian pilgrims were transported to Arafat by around 3:30 am. Efforts were made to ensure all pilgrims were settled into their designated tents before sunrise.
The Day of Arafat is considered the most important part of the Hajj, as pilgrims spend the day in prayer and reflection, seeking forgiveness and blessings.
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs reported that the health of the pilgrims is generally good. It also noted that this year, all Maldivian pilgrims are accommodated in high-category tents exclusive to them, with no sharing with pilgrims from other nations. The facilities at Arafat were described as very good.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj has advised all pilgrims to remain in their tents between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm due to the extreme heat, with temperatures expected to reach up to 40 degree celcius.
On the Day of Arafat, pilgrims gather at the 70-meter-high Mount Arafat and the surrounding plains for hours of worship.