Published：May 22, 06:25Last updated：May 27, 11:52

Hajj Pilgrimage Reaches Climax at Mount Arafat Amid Extreme Heat

May. 22, 2026 06:25

The Hajj pilgrimage, one of the pillars of Islam, brings millions of Muslims to Saudi Arabia annually to perform religious rituals. Eid al-Adha, a significant Islamic festival, follows the pilgrimage. The events hold deep spiritual importance for Muslims worldwide.

Summarized

18News

10Media

May. 27, 2026 11:48

Pilgrims in Saudi Arabia performed symbolic rituals, including throwing pebbles at a large pillar, during the final days of Hajj. The celebrations coincided with intense heat as Eid al-Adha began.

May. 27, 2026 11:52

Pilgrims in Saudi Arabia performed symbolic rituals during Hajj under intense heat. The event marks the start of Eid al-Adha celebrations for Muslims worldwide. The rituals are among the final days of the Hajj pilgrimage.

The annual Hajj pilgrimage reached its spiritual peak on May 26-27, 2026, with approximately 1.7 million Muslim pilgrims gathering at Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia, surpassing previous years' attendance. Despite extreme temperatures exceeding 45°C (113°F) and ongoing Middle East tensions, worshippers from 180+ countries fulfilled the standing ritual (Wuquf) that forms the cornerstone of the five-day pilgrimage. Volunteers distributed water, parasols, and food to assist pilgrims during the climactic event, which coincided with the start of Eid al-Adha celebrations worldwide. The Hajj remains one of Islam's Five Pillars and a unifying force for Muslims globally. Asahi Shimbun+2

🌍 Geopolitical Context

The 2026 Hajj occurred against a backdrop of ongoing Middle East tensions, including U.S. and Israeli airstrikes against Iran since February. Saudi Arabia maintained security protocols to ensure pilgrim safety while navigating complex diplomatic relations. The event demonstrated Islam's transnational appeal despite political divisions, with participants including pilgrims from conflict zones like Gaza. Radio France Internationale+2

☀️ Environmental Challenges

Record-breaking heat tested pilgrims during the critical Mount Arafat gathering and other outdoor rituals. Saudi authorities deployed enhanced mitigation measures including expanded misting systems, shaded pathways, and mobile clinics treating heat exhaustion cases. Climate scientists noted increasing discussions about potential Hajj scheduling adjustments as extreme weather events intensify, following 2024's tragic heat-related fatalities. The Independent+2

✨ Spiritual Significance

The Mount Arafat gathering marked the pilgrimage's climax, where pilgrims spent the day in prayer and reflection following Prophet Muhammad's final sermon. Participants then moved to Muzdalifah for the symbolic stoning of the devil, continuing rituals unchanged since the 7th century. The Hajj's continuity amid global challenges reinforced its status as a pillar of Muslim identity and unity. The Independent+2

IranMeccaEid al-AdhaSaudi ArabiaMuslim pilgrims