January 2, 2022
Makkah is the most sacred city in Islam, home to Masjid Al Haram and the Kaaba, the qiblah toward which Muslims direct their prayers. It holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims, who aspire to visit for Hajj or Umrah. This revered city is also the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the final messenger of Islam, from where the divine message of Islam spread worldwide following the revelation of the Holy Quran.
Situated in western Saudi Arabia, Makkah has received immense attention and development under the rule of Saudi kings. The city continues to be a focal point for enhancing services for pilgrims. Masjid Al Haram, its most iconic landmark, has undergone numerous expansions, ensuring ample space and facilities for worshippers. Additionally, ongoing development projects at the holy sites aim to provide comfort and ease for pilgrims arriving from across the globe.
Mina: The First Station of the Hajj Journey
Mina marks an essential stage in the pilgrimage of Hajj, known for its iconic white tents and recently recognized by the Guinness World Records as the largest tent city in the world. It offers a wide range of services to pilgrims, including the Mashaer Train, residential camps, catering, an integrated transportation network, a full electricity grid, and connected roadways.
Pilgrims traditionally spend the Day of Tarwiyah (8th of Dhu al-Hijjah) in Mina and return again on the Day of Nahr (10th of Dhu al-Hijjah), staying through the Days of Tashreeq (11th to 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah).
Located about 7 kilometers northeast of the Holy Mosque, between Makkah and Muzdalifah within the sacred boundaries (Haram), Mina holds deep historical and religious significance. It is home to several ancient sites, such as the extension of Ain Zubaida and the well of Kadana. Historically, Mina was also known for hosting seasonal Arab markets where pilgrims would trade goods between the 10th and 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah.
The Day of Arafah: The Pinnacle of Hajj
The Day of Arafah marks a crucial stage in the pilgrim’s journey and takes place on the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah. On this day, pilgrims gather at the plains of Arafah in a powerful act of worship and reflection. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Hajj is Arafah,” highlighting the central importance of this moment—hence it’s known as the Greatest Day of Hajj.
Pilgrims may stand and make supplications anywhere within the boundaries of Arafah, including the Mountain of Mercy. They perform the combined and shortened Zuhr and Asr prayers, accompanied by a sermon, following the example of the Prophet (peace be upon him) during his Farewell Pilgrimage.
As the sun sets, pilgrims begin their journey from Arafah toward Muzdalifah. The Day of Arafah holds immense spiritual value, as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) described it as the best day in the sight of Allah.
Muzdalifah: A Sacred Stop on the Hajj Journey
Allah refers to it as Al-Mash’ar Al-Haram in the Holy Qur’an: “But when you depart from Arafat, remember Allah at Al-Mash’ar Al-Haram.” Muzdalifah is a key station in the Hajj pilgrimage, situated between Arafah and Mina.
After leaving Arafah, pilgrims spend the night in Muzdalifah. There, they combine and shorten the Maghrib and Isha prayers and collect pebbles for the ritual of Jamarat in Mina. Pilgrims remain at Muzdalifah for part of the night or until dawn on the Day of Eid, before continuing their journey to Mina.
Jamarat: A Key Ritual Site in Mina
The Jamarat, located in the Mina Valley, are three stone pillars symbolizing the stoning of the devil. They are now part of the multi-level Jamarat Bridge—an engineering achievement designed to manage crowds and ensure pilgrim safety.
On the Day of Nahr, pilgrims throw seven pebbles at the largest Jamrah. During the Days of Tashreeq, each of the three Jamrat—small, middle, and large—is stoned with seven pebbles daily. Pilgrims can perform this ritual from any level of the bridge.
Following the Tafweej (group scheduling) system and movement directions is essential for safety. The bridge, connected to pilgrim camps, features four levels plus a ground floor, with 12 entrances and exits to reduce congestion.
