Imam of the Prophet’s Mosque, Sheikh Ali Al-Hudhaifi, on Tuesday prayed for unity among Muslims and better conditions for them around the world while delivering the Haj sermon at Masjid-i-Namirah.

Huge numbers of Muslims prayed on Mount Arafat, as a harsh desert sun sent temperatures soaring towards 40°C.

The imam concluded the sermon with an emotional prayer, seeking acceptance of the pilgrims’ rituals, unity among the Muslim world, and the safe return of pilgrims to their homes.

“Oh God, improve the conditions of Muslims, create unity among them, and set them on the path of the truth,” he said, according to a televised Urdu translation.

During his sermon, Sheikh Al-Hudhaifi emphasised that Haj is a fundamental pillar of Islam rooted in absolute monotheism and submission to Allah, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported.

He underscored that the pilgrimage serves as a vital platform for mutual acquaintance, harmony, cooperation, and unity among Muslims of all nationalities and backgrounds.

The sermon also highlighted the primary pillars of Islam, the importance of fearing Allah (taqwa), and the “universal laws of divine support for believers”, the outlet said.

“Sheikh Al-Hudhaifi noted that a proper pilgrimage requires excellent conduct, truthful speech, and the avoidance of sins, disputes, and partisan or political slogans,” SPA added.

The sermon emphasised that true honour lies in piety, sincerity, and the oneness of Allah (Tawhid), warning Muslims against associating partners with Him (Shirk).

Sheikh Al-Hudhaifi urged Muslims to abandon division, falsehood, gossip, and hatred, and instead strengthen brotherhood, patience, and righteousness, state-run APP reported.

From daybreak, thousands of white-robed worshippers recited Quranic verses on the 70-metre rocky hill near Makkah, where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his last sermon.

The Haj follows the path of the Prophet’s (PBUH) final pilgrimage about 1,400 years ago.

Following the address, the pilgrims performed the Zuhr and Asr prayers combined and shortened, in line with the prophetic tradition, SPA reported.

The congregational prayer and sermon were attended by several high-ranking officials, including Makkah Deputy Governor Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz and Grand Mufti of the Kingdom Sheikh Saleh Al-Fawzan.

SPA highlighted Namirah Mosque’s importance as “one of the most prominent Islamic landmarks in the holy sites because of its connection to the location where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his farewell sermon”.

“The mosque was named after Mount Namirah located in the area. It occupies a strategic location north of Arafat, approximately 22 kilometres from the Grand Mosque, and is classified as the second-largest mosque in the holy sites area,” according to SPA.

Earlier in the day, the Makkah General Transport Centre announced the completion of the movement of pilgrims to Arafat at 7:56am, two hours ahead of the timing achieved during last year’s Haj.

The movement operations covered three modes of transport: shuttle buses, traditional transport, and the Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro Project.

After spending the day at Mount Arafat, pilgrims departed for Muzdalifah, where they will spend the night. In the morning, they will collect pebbles for the symbolic “stoning of the devil” ritual in Mina, starting on Wednesday.

Pakistan prays for peace, stability across world: PM Shehbaz

In his message issued on the Day of Arafat, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan as a nation prayed for peace, security and stability across the world.

Extending heartfelt felicitations to the Muslim community, particularly pilgrims performing Haj, PM Shehbaz urged Muslims to uphold the values of unity, sacrifice and collective responsibility.

The premier noted that the blessed day of Haj provided worshippers with a unique opportunity to attain the mercy and blessings of Allah Almighty.

He highlighted that the dignified gathering of Haj reflected the spirit of unity among the Muslim Ummah and highlighted a sense of collective responsibility.

“The secret of true national and collective progress and prosperity lies in this spirit of love, sacrifice, and mutual cooperation,” PM Shehbaz said, praying that God may accept pilgrims’ Haj.

He further prayed that “global peace, justice, tolerance and brotherhood may be strengthened so that humanity’s welfare and collective well-being can be ensured”.

Additional input from APP