By Abdulfatah Babatunde with Agencies reports
Arafat (Saudi Arabia) June 5, ’25 (TNZ) No fewer than 1.5 million Muslim pilgrims, on Thursday, gathered on Mount Arafat to climax the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
TheNewsZenith reports that the convergence of the pilgrims, excluding Saudi domestic pilgrims, converged at Mount Arafat, marking the holiest day in the Islamic calendar called “Yawm al-Arafah” (Arafat Day).
Reports say the temperature on Mount Arafat soared to 42°C (107.6°F). This prompted authorities to enforce strict safety protocols.
Saudi authorities advised pilgrims to stay in air-conditioned tents between 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m., to avoid peak heat.
To enhance heat mitigation, the authorities planted 10,000 trees to expand shaded areas. They also deployed over 400 misting/cooling units around the site.
Similarly, Saudi authorities tripled medical teams, providing more than 400 healthcare professionals. They were stationed across Mina and Arafat.
Authorities equally distributed ice packs and water widely for the pilgrims’ welfare.
To curb overcrowding, Saudi authorities deployed AI surveillance, comprising over 15,000 cameras and drones. They also barred 269,000 people without permits from Mecca this year.
TheNewsZenith gathered penalties for violations include fines up to 20,000 SAR ($5,330), deportation, and 10-year entry bans.
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Pilgrims spent the Arafat Day in prayer and reflection at Mount Arafat, where Prophet Muhammad (SAW) delivered his final sermon.
Muslim Clerics considered this ritual, Wuquf, as the pinnacle of Hajj; without it, the pilgrimage is invalid.
After sunset, pilgrims moved to Muzdalifah to collect pebbles for the symbolic “stoning of the devil” ritual in Mina.
TheNewsZenith reports that pilgrims from over 100 countries are participating in this year’s hajj. They include 2,443 guests hosted under Saudi Arabia’s official outreach programme.
Countries like Pakistan organised group movements via trains/buses to minimise heat exposure. The Hajj sermon was broadcast in “35 languages” globally.
These measures follow 1,301 heat-related deaths in 2024, primarily among unregistered pilgrims.
This year’s crackdown and infrastructure upgrades aim to prevent similar incidents.
Mount Arafat today symbolised both profound spiritual devotion and a massive logistical operation, balancing sacred traditions with urgent climate adaptations. (TNZ)
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