Millions of Muslims gathered on the plains of Arafat on Tuesday for Waqoof-e-Arafat, the climax of Hajj, as chants of “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik” echoed across the desert under blistering temperatures reaching 44 degrees Celsius.

From before dawn, streams of white-robed pilgrims moved toward Mount Arafat, the rocky hill near Makkah where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his farewell sermon more than 1,400 years ago. Worshippers recited Quranic verses, raised their hands in prayer and wept openly while seeking forgiveness and mercy on what is regarded as the holiest day in the Islamic calendar.

The vast plains of Arafat transformed into a striking symbol of Islamic unity, with pilgrims from every race, language and nationality standing side by side in devotion. Volunteers distributed water bottles, food packages and parasols to pilgrims moving through the intense desert heat while helicopters circled overhead and health teams remained on alert.

More than 1.5 million pilgrims participated in this year’s Hajj amid heightened regional tensions following the Middle East conflict triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran. Despite the regional instability, Saudi authorities said overseas pilgrim arrivals surpassed last year’s figures.

Delivering the annual Hajj sermon from Masjid al-Namirah, Imam and Khateeb of Masjid an-Nabawi Sheikh Dr Ali Al-Hudhaify urged Muslims to strengthen unity, uphold piety and prepare for accountability in the hereafter.

The Hajj sermon centred on Tawheed, patience, gratitude and sincerity in worship, while repeatedly stressing that Hajj represented the unity of the Muslim Ummah beyond divisions of nationality, colour and language.

“People of all colours and backgrounds from across the globe have gathered here today,” Sheikh Al-Hudhaify told the massive congregation, describing Hajj as a living manifestation of one Ummah united before Allah.

“Observe Taqwa, for therein lies the salvation of the servant in his Hereafter,” he said, reminding pilgrims of the Day of Judgment. He warned against disputes, division and political slogans during Hajj. “There is no wrongdoing in Hajj, no disputing, no political slogans or partisan calls, but rather submission to Allah.”

The Imam also urged pilgrims to follow official regulations and safety instructions during movement between Arafat, Muzdalifah and Mina, particularly as Saudi authorities intensified heat protection measures following the deaths of more than 1,300 pilgrims during last year’s extreme temperatures.

Saudi Arabia deployed more than 50,000 healthcare workers and 3,000 ambulances this year, while additional shaded areas and cooling facilities were introduced to reduce heat-related illnesses during the outdoor rituals.

Pakistani pilgrims began arriving in Arafat late Monday night under the supervision of designated organisers, with authorities confirming all groups reached their camps before Zuhr prayers. Pilgrims spent the day engaged in supplications and prayers for forgiveness, peace and the unity of the Muslim world.

Following sunset, pilgrims began departing for Muzdalifah, where they will spend the night under the open sky and collect pebbles for the stoning of the devil ritual, scheduled for Wednesday(today) as the annual pilgrimage moves toward conclusion.