Makkah: Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from around the world are convening on the plains of Arafat today to perform Wuqoof-e-Arafat, a central pillar of the Hajj pilgrimage.

According to Radio Pakistan, correspondent Asad Ullah Khan reported that convoys of Pakistani pilgrims began their journey to Arafat last night, shortly after the Isha prayer. Throughout the night, more groups arrived under the guidance of the Pakistan Hajj Mission, filling the vast plain with the sound of “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik.”

This year, the Hajj sermon will be delivered by Sheikh Ali Al-Hudhaify, Imam of Masjid-e-Nabawi. The Saudi Government has arranged for the sermon to be broadcast in 35 languages, including Urdu, Punjabi, and Pashto, to aid non-Arabic speaking pilgrims. Following the sermon, pilgrims will offer combined and shortened Zuhr and Asr prayers in their tents, in accordance with Sunnah.

The day will be spent in supplication, remembrance, and personal prayers, with pilgrims remaining in a state of devotion until sunset. Special prayers are being offered across Arafat for peace, security, and forgiveness for Pakistan and the global Muslim community.

As the sun sets, pilgrims will depart for Muzdalifah to collect pebbles in preparation for the Rami al-Jamarat ritual.