The annual Hajj pilgrimage has officially begun, with more than 1.5 million Muslims from around the world arriving in the sprawling tent city of Mina on Wednesday, marking the Day of Tarwiyah.
Pilgrims began their sacred journey from Makkah in the early hours, many chanting “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik” as they boarded over 8,000 buses arranged by Saudi authorities to ensure a smooth transition to Mina. Among the international pilgrims are over 88,000 Pakistanis performing Hajj under the government scheme, and another 27,000 through private arrangements.
Saudi Arabia is hosting over 1.47 million pilgrims from abroad, joined by hundreds of thousands of domestic worshippers. This year, 2,443 pilgrims from 100 countries are attending as special guests of King Salman.
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Upon arriving in Makkah, pilgrims performed Tawaf Al-Qudum before donning the Ihram and proceeding to Mina, where they will spend the night in prayer and reflection. On the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, they will gather at Arafat for the pivotal Wuquf-e-Arafat ritual, followed by Muzdalifah and the stoning rites at Jamarat.
Saudi authorities have deployed 250,000 personnel and are using AI and drones to manage crowds and ensure safety. The Ministry of Health has advised pilgrims to remain hydrated and avoid the sun during peak hours due to extreme heat.