The sacred pilgrimage of Hajj 2025 has officially begun, marking the commencement of one of the most spiritually significant journeys in the Islamic faith. Over 1.5 million pilgrims from across the globe have converged on the holy city of Mina, beginning the revered rites that constitute this annual act of worship. The Hajj 2025 Pilgrimage not only reflects a physical journey but a deeply emotional and spiritual expedition that embodies sacrifice, devotion, and unity.
With the powerful chants of Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik echoing through the air, the spirit of Hajj has enveloped the atmosphere, uniting hearts and minds in a singular purpose — submission to the will of Allah.
Pilgrims from Around the World Arrive in Mina for Day of Tarwiyah
The Day of Tarwiyah, observed on 8th Dhul-Hijjah, marks the beginning of the sacred rites of Hajj. In the early hours of the day, thousands of pilgrims began arriving in Mina, where they will stay overnight in prayer and reflection. By afternoon, the tent city was alive with devotion, as pilgrims completed their journey from Makkah with the support of over 8,000 buses organized by the Saudi authorities.
This year’s Hajj sees the participation of over 1.47 million international pilgrims, joined by hundreds of thousands of domestic worshippers. Among them are 2,443 pilgrims from 100 countries, graciously hosted under the Guest Program of King Salman, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.
Pakistan’s Participation in Hajj 2025 Pilgrimage
Pakistan has a significant presence in this year’s pilgrimage. A total of 88,301 pilgrims are attending under the government Hajj scheme, while an additional 27,012 have made the journey through private operators. Pakistani pilgrims traveled from areas such as Aziziyah, Naseem, and Batha Quraish to Mina, donning the ihram and spiritually preparing through prayer before departing.
They will now embark on the most spiritually profound portion of the Hajj journey — the Wuquf-e-Arafat.
The Pivotal Rite at Mount Arafat: Wuquf-e-Arafat
On 9th Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims will journey to the plains of Arafat, where they will perform Wuquf-e-Arafat, the standing at Arafat — the central and most vital pillar of Hajj. Here, amidst tearful prayers and heartfelt supplications, pilgrims seek forgiveness and spiritual elevation. The Hajj sermon, delivered from the Nimrah Mosque, is followed by combined Zuhr and Asr prayers before pilgrims depart for Muzdalifah at sunset.
Night at Muzdalifah and the Symbolic Stoning Rituals
Upon reaching Muzdalifah, pilgrims combine Maghrib and Isha prayers, collecting pebbles that will be used in the Ramy al-Jamarat — the stoning of the devil. Spending the night under the open sky, this experience is humbling and unifying.
On the morning of 10th Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims will perform the stoning of the large devil, followed by sacrificial rituals, head shaving (halq) for men, and hair trimming for women, signifying the completion of their state of ihram.
Completing the Hajj: Tawaf, Sa’i, and Final Rites
On the 11th and 12th Dhul-Hijjah, the stoning of all three devils — small, medium, and large — will continue. Pilgrims then return to Makkah for the Tawaf al-Ziyarah, also known as the Farewell Tawaf, followed by the Sa’i ritual between Safa and Marwah.
Those who wish may extend their stay in Mina until the 13th Dhul-Hijjah to complete the additional stoning ritual, following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Advanced Technology and Exceptional Management by Saudi Authorities
This year’s Hajj is marked by the integration of AI-powered monitoring systems and drone surveillance for crowd control and safety. Over 250,000 personnel and 40 government agencies are working in harmony to ensure a seamless experience for pilgrims. Heat safety remains a top concern, with the Ministry of Health issuing hydration alerts and providing white umbrellas for sun protection.
Scholars, led by Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, are available on-site to provide religious guidance, while Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais has reminded pilgrims to continue chanting Talbiyah until they begin the stoning rituals.
Conclusion: Hajj 2025 – A Journey of Unity, Faith, and Purpose
The Hajj 2025 Pilgrimage serves as a powerful reminder of the unity and equality that Islam promotes. From the mountainous plains of Arafat to the sacred walls of the Kaaba, every step reflects submission to the Divine and the eternal bond that connects Muslims worldwide. As pilgrims complete their rituals, their hearts are renewed, their souls uplifted, and their lives forever transformed.