Daijiworld Media Network - Riyadh

Riyadh, May 26: As millions of Muslims gathered at the holy plains of Arafat on Tuesday for the most significant ritual of Haj, Indian pilgrims successfully reached the sacred site comfortably and on schedule to participate in prayers and religious observances.

Indian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Ajaz Khan, extended his greetings to the pilgrims and described the Day of Arafat as the most important phase of the annual pilgrimage.

“Today is the Day of Arafat, which marks the central ritual of Haj. Pilgrims travel from the tent city of Mina to Arafat, where they spend the day in prayers before proceeding to Muzdalifah after sunset,” he said.

The ambassador confirmed that all Indian pilgrims had been transported safely and efficiently from Mina to Arafat using a combination of buses and trains.

“Nearly half of the pilgrims travelled by train, while the others used buses. All have now settled into their tents in Arafat and are devoted to prayers,” he added.

According to the Indian Embassy in Riyadh, Ambassador Khan, along with Indian Consul General in Jeddah, Fahad Suri, and members of the Indian Haj Mission, remained present at Arafat to oversee arrangements and assist pilgrims.

Union Minister for Parliamentary and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, also conveyed his greetings on the occasion and expressed hope that the pilgrimage would continue to promote compassion, peace and unity.

“On the solemn occasion of Haj pilgrims gathering at the sacred plains of Arafat for the core rituals of Haj 2026, I extend my heartfelt greetings and prayers to all Hajis. May this spiritual journey strengthen the values of harmony, compassion and unity among humanity,” Rijiju posted on social media platform X.

Earlier this week, Ambassador Khan met Karnataka’s Minister for Municipal Administration and Haj, Rahim Khan, in Mecca to review preparations for the pilgrimage season. Consul General Fahad Suri also attended the meeting.

On Saturday, the ambassador visited Mecca and interacted with Indian pilgrims to gather feedback regarding accommodation, transportation and healthcare facilities. He also reviewed preparedness with officials, coordinators and medical teams deployed for the Haj mission.

The Indian Embassy stated that special attention was given to arrangements for the movement of pilgrims to Mina and other holy sites during the crucial Haj period.

This year, more than 1.5 million pilgrims from around the world have arrived in Mecca for the annual Haj pilgrimage, taking place amid renewed hopes for peace and stability in West Asia.