Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, required once in a lifetime for every adult Muslim who is able. For a first-timer, it can feel overwhelming: many places, many days, and many people. This guide gives a simple overview of how the days usually unfold. It is not a complete rulebook. The details, and the points where schools differ, should be learned from the scholar with your group.
Before Hajj begins
Hajj takes place in the month of Dhul Hijjah. Many pilgrims arrive in Makkah some days earlier. Depending on the type of Hajj you perform, you may do an Umrah first or enter ihram for Hajj directly.
There are three types of Hajj that scholars describe: tamattu, qiran, and ifrad. They differ in how Umrah and Hajj are combined and in whether a sacrifice is required. Your group will usually tell you which type you are performing. Make sure you understand it before you travel, and ask the scholar with your group if you are unsure.
The 8th of Dhul Hijjah: going to Mina
On this day, pilgrims who are not already in ihram enter ihram for Hajj and go to Mina, a valley outside Makkah filled with tents. The day is spent in prayer, dhikr, and rest. Many pilgrims stay the night there.
Practical tip: this is a good day to rest and conserve strength. The next day is the most important day of Hajj.
The 9th of Dhul Hijjah: the Day of Arafah
This is the heart of Hajj. It is widely known that “Hajj is Arafah.” Pilgrims travel to the plain of Arafah and stay there from after midday until sunset.
The day is for dua. Pilgrims stand, sit, or rest, and turn to Allah with their hopes, their worries, and their requests for forgiveness. Prepare a dua list before this day, for yourself, your family, and everyone who asked you to remember them.
Practical tips:
- Arafah is usually very hot. Drink water, stay in shade, and rest so you can spend the afternoon in dua.
- Stay within the boundaries of Arafah. Your group will guide you.
- Do not spend the day on your phone. These hours are precious.
The night at Muzdalifah
After sunset on the day of Arafah, pilgrims move to Muzdalifah, an open area between Arafah and Mina. Here they pray Maghrib and Isha and spend the night under the open sky. Many pilgrims collect small pebbles here for the stoning in the days ahead.
The movement from Arafah to Muzdalifah is slow and crowded. Be patient. Some people, such as the elderly, the weak, and those caring for them, may have concessions on how long they stay. Ask your scholar.
The 10th of Dhul Hijjah: the Day of Eid
This is a full day, and the order and timing of its acts is something your scholar will explain. In general, pilgrims:
- Stone the largest pillar (Jamarat al-Aqabah) in Mina with seven small pebbles.
- Offer the sacrifice, for those whose type of Hajj requires it. Most pilgrims arrange this through official channels rather than doing it themselves.
- Shave or shorten the hair for men, and cut a small amount for women.
- Perform Tawaf al-Ifadah in Makkah, and sa’i if it is required for you.
After certain of these acts, most of the restrictions of ihram end. It is also Eid, so remember to celebrate gratefully with those around you.
The days of Tashreeq: the 11th, 12th, and 13th
Pilgrims return to Mina and stay there for these days. Each day they stone the three pillars, small, middle, and large, in order, with seven pebbles each. Some pilgrims leave after the 12th, and others stay for the 13th. Ask your scholar what applies to you.
Practical tips:
- Follow your group’s assigned times for stoning. They are designed to manage the crowds safely.
- Never push at the Jamarat. Throw calmly and move on.
- Rest between stonings. These days are long and hot.
The farewell tawaf
Before leaving Makkah, pilgrims perform the farewell tawaf (Tawaf al-Wada). This is the last act before you depart.
A few things to remember
- You will walk a lot. Prepare your body before the trip by walking regularly at home.
- Stay with your group. Hajj areas are huge, and tents look alike. Know your tent number and your group leader’s number.
- Ask, do not guess. Missing or changing a rite can have consequences. Your scholar is there to help.
- Be patient with people. Millions of pilgrims share the same places on the same days. The Quran reminds pilgrims to avoid arguments during Hajj.
Learning before you go
Read a full Hajj guide from a trusted scholar, attend the preparation sessions your group offers, and practise the dua and dhikr you want to say. The more you understand before you go, the more present you will be on the days themselves.
Source: Practical arrangements change. Check the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, Nusuk, and the official Saudi visa site for current entry rules.
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