Saudi ministry asks pilgrims to stay in Arafat camps until 4pm amid extreme heat

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th May, 2026) Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged pilgrims to remain inside their camps in Arafat until 4:00 pm on the ninth of Dhul-Hijjah to protect them from extreme heat and direct sun exposure during the most important stage of Hajj.

According to Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the ministry advised pilgrims to avoid moving outside during peak daytime temperatures in order to reduce heat stress and ensure their safety on the Day of Arafah.

The report said the Arafah sermon will be broadcast live through audio and video systems to all pilgrim camps, enabling pilgrims to listen comfortably without leaving their locations.

SPA told APP that the ministry also urged pilgrims to strictly follow approved movement schedules and dispatching plans to help maintain smooth crowd flow between the holy sites.

Authorities warned pilgrims against entering traffic routes or unauthorized areas, saying such actions could disrupt crowd management and affect operational movement during Hajj.

The ministry further advised pilgrims not to climb Jabal Al-Rahmah due to risks posed by high temperatures and overcrowding.

Officials said compliance with official instructions would help pilgrims perform rituals safely and peacefully while supporting efficient crowd management during Hajj 1447 AH.