Nearly 2 million Muslims gathered on Mount Arafat in western Saudi Arabia on Thursday, marking the spiritual high point of the annual Hajj pilgrimage just as the four-day Eid al-Adha festival begins.
Pilgrims, dressed in white to symbolize equality and humility, spent Wednesday night in Mina before trekking at sunrise to Arafat, where they stood in prayer and sought forgiveness. Later, they moved to Muzdalifah and eventually returned to Mina for the symbolic stoning of the devil. The rites conclude with the ritual sacrifice of animals on Friday, the first day of Eid al-Adha.
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As the festival began, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres offered his greetings. “My warmest wishes to everyone celebrating #EidAlAdha,” he posted on X. “At a time of conflict, division and violence, let’s draw inspiration from the values of solidarity, community & compassion that inspire this celebration. Eid Mubarak!”
The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam and must be performed at least once by all Muslims who are physically and financially able. Its rituals are designed to honor the story of the Prophet Abraham and his family’s trials.
The gathering comes under extreme heat, with temperatures soaring to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, prompting Saudi authorities to implement enhanced cooling measures across Mecca. In 2024, more than 1,200 people died during the Hajj, many from heat-related causes.
For Muslims not participating in the Hajj, Eid al-Adha is celebrated with prayer, feasting, and the exchange of gifts.