Over 850,000 Pilgrims Perform Tawaf Al-Ifadah in Makkah
In a bustling day in Makkah, over 850,000 pilgrims took part in the Tawaf Al-Ifadah ritual by Sunday night. This sacred ritual marks the conclusion of the Hajj pilgrimage and the commencement of Eid Al-Adha celebrations for Muslims worldwide.
Symbolic Stoning of the Devil in Muzdalifah
The day kicked off with a sea of pilgrims engaging in the symbolic stoning of the devil in Muzdalifah amidst scorching summer temperatures. This act is among the final rites of the Hajj, a pillar of Islam.
Congregation at Mount Arafat
The Tawaf Al-Ifadah followed a day where over 1.8 million pilgrims gathered at Mount Arafat, a sacred hill near Makkah. This site is visited by Muslim pilgrims as part of the five-day Hajj rituals.
Security Measures
Colonel Talal bin Abdulmohsen Al-Shalhoub, the spokesperson for the Saudi Ministry of Interior, assured the safe return of all pilgrims to their tents in Mina from Muzdalifah. Security forces are dedicated to ensuring the well-being of the pilgrims throughout their stay, including at the Jamarat Bridge and the Grand Mosque.
Call for Adherence to Guidelines
Al-Shalhoub urged pilgrims to strictly follow the instructions for their ritual performances. He emphasized the importance of crowd control and management to guarantee a smooth experience for all guests.
Efficient Organizational Plans
Ayedh Al-Ghuwainem, the deputy minister of Hajj and Umrah for Hajj affairs, reported a successful stoning process with a 95 percent compliance rate. Plans were tailored to accommodate the preferences of pilgrims, utilizing modern technology and scheduled groupings.
Transportation Challenges
Despite the availability of shuttle buses, a majority of pilgrims preferred to walk, posing a challenge for organizers. Al-Ghuwainem urged pilgrims to heed instructions to ensure a smooth and safe journey.