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Location: Arafah
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Timeframe: From afternoon until after sunset
Step 1: Departure to Arafah
After sunrise on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims head out from Mina towards Arafah while continuously reciting the Talbiyah and declaring Takbeer (“ALLAHU AKBAR”) (ALLAH is the Greatest).
Step 2: Avoid Fasting
Fasting on the Day of Arafah is discouraged (Makruh) for pilgrims. The Prophet ﷺ set this example by drinking milk in full view of the people while standing at Arafah.
Step 3: Temporary Stay in Namirah
If manageable, it is Sunnah to stop and rest in the area of Namirah until past midday.
Step 4: Listening to the Khutbah and Joining Prayers
Listen to the Hajj sermon (Khutbah) delivered at Masjid Namirah. Afterward, combine Dhuhr and Asr prayers at the time of Dhuhr (Jam’ Taqdeem), shortening both 4-rakat prayers to 2 rakats each.
Step 5: Verify Your Position Inside Arafah Boundaries
Pilgrims must confirm they are physically inside the official boundaries of Arafah. Note that the nearby Valley of Urana (Wadi Urana) lies outside Arafah.
Step 6: Devotional Supplications (Dua)
Turn facing the Qibla, raise your hands, and spend the remaining time until sunset engaged in heartfelt supplication and remembrance of Allah.
Step 7: Standing at Arafah (Wuquf)
The entire plain of Arafah qualifies for Wuquf. If feasible, position yourself so that Mount Arafah (Jabal ar-Rahmah) lies between you and the Qibla.
Step 8: Refrain from Climbing Mount Arafah
Climbing Jabal ar-Rahmah is not part of the Prophet’s ﷺ Sunnah and is not required.
Step 9: Recite the Recommended Supplication
Frequently recite the Sunnah declaration of Tawheed:
“There is no deity worthy of worship except Allah, alone, without partner. To Him belongs sovereignty and all praise. He gives life and causes death, and He has power over all things.”
لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لاَ شَرِيكَ لَهُ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ، يُحْيِي وَيُمِيتُ، وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٌ
Step 10: Send Salutations upon the Prophet ﷺ
Continuously recite blessings (Durood) upon the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ throughout the day.
Step 11: Remain in Arafah Until Sunset
Pilgrims must stay within Arafah’s borders until the sun sets completely.
Step 12: Proceed to Muzdalifah
Once sunset occurs, leave Arafah for Muzdalifah with calmness and dignity, quickening your pace only if space allows.
Step 13: Perform Combined Evening Prayers in Muzdalifah
Upon reaching Muzdalifah, perform Maghrib and Isha prayers together at Isha time (Jam’ Ta’kheer). Do not perform voluntary prayers here, except for the Witr prayer.
Step 14: Overnight Stay in Muzdalifah
Spend the night resting in Muzdalifah until dawn. Women, the elderly, and vulnerable individuals are permitted to depart for Mina after midnight or once the moon has set.