WEBDESK: Hajj 2025 is coming to a close as more than 1.6 million Muslim pilgrims gathered in Mina on Friday to take part in one of the final major rituals – the symbolic stoning of the devil.
The ritual, known as Ramy al-Jamarat, is performed over three days and involves pilgrims throwing small pebbles at three stone pillars. The ritual commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s stoning of the devil at the three spots where Satan tried to dissuade him from obeying God’s order to sacrifice his son.
Droves of pilgrims had already set out from their camps and accommodations in the sprawling tent city in Mina before dawn, taking advantage of the shade and cool temperature.
Pilgrims go to Mina which is near Mecca, to take part in stoning of the devil. Because afternoons could be extremely hot, almost 50 degrees in some regions, pilgrims initiated the ritual early in the morning. Most participants carried umbrellas and water to complete the ritual in a well-organized group.
Tighter organization for safety and crowds has been put into place for Hajj 2025 after the tragedy in last year’s Hajj that killed over a thousand people due to the heat. Public access to Hajj locations was restricted only to those with official Hajj permits to prevent crowded areas and increase safety this year.
Leaders messages as Hajj 2025 comes to a close
The Saudi King, Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, in a message in Arabic, expressed gratitude at having the privilege to host Haj every year. He prayed to God for the acceptance of the holy ritual.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called on pilgrims to pray for the people of Gaza, urging them to seek divine support against oppression during their prayers.
You blessed pilgrims, do not neglect the opportunity to pray and seek Almighty God's help during the #Hajj and beseech Almighty God for victory over the Zionist oppressors and their supporters.
— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) June 5, 2025
With Hajj 2025 coming to an end, pilgrims will now prepare for the final rituals, including the farewell circumambulation (Tawaf al-Wada) at the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Many will also slaughter an animal as part of Eid al-Adha, which coincides with the final days of the pilgrimage.
Pakistan will celebrate Eidul Azha tomorrow (Saturday).
