Muslim pilgrims in Saudi Arabia set off at dawn on Tuesday to observe the Day of Arafah, considered the most significant day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
Worshippers were seen walking through the streets of Arafat as others climbed the mountain at sunrise, the site where Prophet Muhammad is believed to have delivered his final sermon more than fourteen centuries ago.
The Hajj pilgrimage, a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it, is regarded as the world’s largest religious gathering. This year, an estimated three million pilgrims are taking part.
Pilgrims will remain in Arafat until sunset before proceeding to Muzdalifah, where they will collect pebbles for the symbolic stoning ritual representing the rejection of evil. The ritual marks the beginning of Eid al-Adha, which will be celebrated by Muslims around the world on Wednesday.
