Pilgrims began gathering at Mount Arafat on Tuesday to perform the standing, the primary rite of the Hajj pilgrimage [1].
This event represents the spiritual peak of the Hajj, as the standing at Arafat is considered the most essential pillar of the pilgrimage. Without completing this rite, the Hajj is not considered valid according to Islamic tradition.
According to reports, the movement of the pilgrims toward the plains of Arafat began with the sunrise on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 [3]. This date corresponds to the ninth day of Dhu al-Hijjah in the Islamic lunar calendar for the year 1447 [3].
Al Masry Al Youm said that pilgrims are standing on Mount Arafat today to fulfill their religious obligations [2]. The gathering brings together millions of Muslims from across the globe in a collective act of prayer, and repentance.
El Balad said that the guests of the Most Merciful began their journey toward the pure plains of Arafat early Tuesday morning [3]. The site serves as the focal point for the day's activities, where pilgrims spend the day in prayer and reflection before moving to Muzdalifah.
The arrival of the pilgrims marks the transition into the most intensive phase of the pilgrimage. This phase requires significant logistical coordination by Saudi authorities to manage the flow of people into the designated areas of the plain [1].
“The standing at Arafat is considered the most essential pillar of the pilgrimage.”
The arrival of pilgrims at Mount Arafat on May 26, 2026, signifies the climax of the Hajj season. Because the 'standing' is the only mandatory rite that cannot be substituted or missed, the successful movement of millions of people into this specific geographic area is the primary measure of the pilgrimage's logistical and spiritual success.
