Today is the greatest day of the year — the Day of Arafah 1447. More than one and a half million pilgrims from all over the world are now standing on the plain of Arafat in a majestic scene of faith, amid unprecedented Saudi preparations to serve the guests of Allah.

Who it concerns: All pilgrims of the Sacred House of Allah from inside and outside the Kingdom
Where it takes place: Plain of Arafat — the Sacred Sites of Makkah Al-Mukarramah
Cost: Performing the rituals as part of the accepted Hajj
When: Tuesday, 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah 1447 AH — May 26, 2026 AD
⏰ Important Notice: Temperatures reach 40°C — drink plenty of water, use an umbrella, and prioritize safety

The Stand at Arafat.. The Greatest Pillar

Today, the pilgrims of the Sacred House of Allah perform the Stand at Arafat, which is considered the greatest pillar of Hajj. Since dawn, pilgrims have been arriving at the plain of Arafat, reciting the Talbiyah and supplications, in a scene that reflects the unity of Muslims from different nationalities and cultures.

The Saudi Supreme Court previously announced that Tuesday, May 26, 2026, is the Day of Arafat, following the confirmed sighting of the crescent moon of Dhu al-Hijjah for the year 1447 AH. Thus, Wednesday, May 27, will be the first day of the blessed Eid al-Adha.

Comprehensive Saudi Preparations

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has mobilized immense resources to serve the guests of Allah this year, including:

  • Expansion of transportation and train networks to move pilgrims between the sacred sites
  • Advanced cooling systems in camps and the sacred sites
  • Medical and emergency teams deployed along the routes
  • More than 30,000 smart cameras for crowd management
  • Cooling mist sprays for pedestrians to alleviate the heat of the sun

Hot Weather and Important Advice

Makkah Al-Mukarramah and the sacred sites are experiencing high temperatures that may reach 44°C. Saudi authorities have urged pilgrims to drink plenty of water, use sun umbrellas, and avoid direct exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours.

What Comes After the Stand at Arafat?

After sunset today, pilgrims will head to Muzdalifah to stay overnight and collect pebbles for the stoning of the Jamarat. Tomorrow, Wednesday, the first day of the blessed Eid al-Adha, pilgrims will stone the Great Jamrat al-Aqaba, then perform the Tahallul, followed by the days of Tashreeq to complete the rituals.

May you be well every year — blessed Eid al-Adha 🎉

Source: Saudi Press Agency (SPA) — spa.gov.sa | Ministry of Hajj and Umrah — haj.gov.sa