On Thursday, the 9th of Dul Hijjah, over 1.67 million pilgrims converged on the sacred plains of Arafat, marking the spiritual peak of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. From early morning, the atmosphere was thick with devotion as worshippers engaged in fervent prayers, Quranic recitations, and heartfelt supplications. The Day of Arafat is widely considered the most sacred day in the Islamic calendar and stands as the very heart of the Hajj journey.

As the sun began to set over Mount Arafat, signaling the conclusion of the day's profound rituals, the massive congregation began its mass exodus towards Muzdalifah. This holy site, strategically located between Arafat and Mina, is a crucial next step in the Hajj. The movement to Muzdalifah is a testament to meticulous planning by Saudi authorities, showcasing a seamless blend of logistical coordination and spiritual significance.

The scale of this operation is immense. With 1,673,230 pilgrims performing Hajj this year—including over 1.5 million from outside the Kingdom and 166,654 domestic pilgrims—managing their movement requires unparalleled coordination. Various agencies, including the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the Ministry of Interior, and the Transport General Authority, work in unison to ensure safe and efficient transit. A vast fleet of buses and the specialized Al-Mashaaer Al-Mugaddassah Metro, a railway system exclusively for Hajj, were instrumental in easing congestion. The metro, with its nine stations, can transport up to 72,000 pilgrims per hour, connecting Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina in a circular loop. Smart surveillance systems, drones, and real-time data were also deployed to monitor crowds and prevent bottlenecks, while volunteers and security personnel guided pilgrims.

Upon arrival in Muzdalifah, pilgrims performed the Maghrib and Isha prayers, often shortened and combined. They then began another vital ritual: collecting 49 pebbles for the symbolic stoning of the devil at the Jamarat site in Mina. Many chose to rest under the open sky, following the Prophet Muhammad's practice. Despite its logistical importance, Muzdalifah is fully equipped with lighting, shaded rest areas, water stations, and mobile medical units.

The Ministry of Health deployed over 120 ambulances and several field hospitals, supported by thousands of medical staff, to address any health concerns, including heat stress and dehydration. These comprehensive measures underscore Saudi Arabia's commitment, under Vision 2030, to continuously enhance the Hajj experience through a blend of faith, planning, and technology.