More than two million Muslim pilgrims from across the world gathered at the plain of Arafat in Saudi Arabia for the peak of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
Pilgrims dressed in simple white ihram garments filled the valley and the surroundings of Mount Arafat, offering prayers and supplications as part of one of the most important rites of Hajj.
The gathering brought together worshippers of different nationalities, races, and social backgrounds, all united in prayers, supplications, and acts of devotion.
Saleh bin Saad al-Murabba, Commander of the Hajj Passport Forces, said more than 1.5 million pilgrims had entered the Kingdom as of Friday, May 22, 2026.
Many pilgrims, including Nigerians, endured temperatures estimated at about 46 degrees Celsius while remaining committed to the spiritual exercise.
Some Nigerian Pilgrims described the experience as physically demanding but spiritually fulfilling, noting that the harsh conditions became easier to bear because of the deep sense of purpose attached to the exercise.
Despite the large crowd, many worshippers maintained silence while reciting prayers, raising their hands in supplication, and seeking forgiveness.
Several pilgrims noted that standing at Arafat gave them a profound sense of humility and reminded them of the Islamic belief in the Day of Judgement, where humanity would gather before God.
As sunset approached, the atmosphere reportedly shifted from solemn reflection to a mix of relief and anticipation as pilgrims prepared to depart for Muzdalifah, the next stage of the pilgrimage.
In one massive but orderly movement, worshippers began leaving the plain while continuously chanting the Islamic phrase “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik,” declaring their submission and response to the call of God.
Many pilgrims described the Arafat experience as one of the most powerful moments of their lives, with some saying it felt like “the closest point between life, death, and spiritual rebirth.”
RN
