Hajj is not just a religious obligation—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey that unites millions of Muslims from around the globe in devotion, humility, and prayer. As the fifth and final pillar of Islam, Hajj holds a deeply revered place in the hearts of Muslims, symbolizing equality, submission to Allah (SWT), and the renewal of faith.
In 2025, the Hajj pilgrimage will take place from June 4 to June 9, corresponding to 8th to 13th Zil-Hijjah 1446 AH in the Islamic lunar calendar. An estimated 1.8 million pilgrims are expected to gather in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah to fulfill this sacred duty.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the dates, rituals, significance, logistics, and other important details surrounding Hajj 2025, so whether you’re a prospective pilgrim or simply curious, you’ll walk away with a deep understanding of this profound event.
❤️ The Significance of Hajj in Islam
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, alongside Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (charity), and Sawm (fasting during Ramadan). It is mandatory for every physically and financially able Muslim to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime.
The pilgrimage traces the footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), his wife Hajra (AS), and their son Ismail (AS). Through acts such as Sa’i between the hills of Safa and Marwa and the symbolic stoning of the devil, pilgrims commemorate their unwavering submission to Allah’s will.
Hajj is not just about physical movement or rituals—it is a journey of inner purification, where ego is stripped away, worldly distractions are cast aside, and a direct connection with the Creator is sought.
🗓️ Key Dates and Schedule for Hajj 2025
Here is the breakdown of the major events of Hajj 2025 according to the Islamic calendar:
📌 8th Zil-Hijjah (June 4, 2025) – Yawm at-Tarwiyah
Pilgrims don the Ihram, a sacred state and clothing.
They head to Mina, where they spend the night in prayer and preparation.
📌 9th Zil-Hijjah (June 5, 2025) – Day of Arafah
The most important day of Hajj.
Pilgrims travel to Arafat, where they stand in prayer and supplication (Wuquf).
After sunset, they move to Muzdalifah, gather pebbles, and spend the night under the open sky.
📌 10th Zil-Hijjah (June 6, 2025) – Eid-ul-Adha
Pilgrims return to Mina for:
Stoning of the largest pillar (Jamrat al-Aqabah)
Animal sacrifice (Qurbani)
Hair cutting (Halq or Taqsir)
Tawaf al-Ifadah in Makkah
📌 11th to 13th Zil-Hijjah (June 7–9, 2025)
Pilgrims stay in Mina and perform the ritual of stoning all three Jamarat for each of the days.
After completing the rituals, they return to Makkah to perform Tawaf al-Wada (farewell Tawaf) before departing.
🌍 Hajj 2025: Global Participation
Saudi Arabia anticipates around 1.8 million pilgrims to attend Hajj in 2025. This includes international pilgrims from over 180 countries as well as domestic pilgrims from within the Kingdom.
Most pilgrims will arrive by air, while others may journey by land and sea routes. With the lifting of COVID-related restrictions in recent years, Hajj is expected to proceed at full capacity, supported by extensive infrastructure and digital tools.
The Nusuk platform remains the official portal for managing Hajj packages, visa applications, and scheduling services. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is also emphasizing enhanced safety, health, and logistical arrangements for this year’s pilgrims.
🕌 The Main Rituals (Arkan) of Hajj
Each ritual in Hajj holds deep spiritual and historical significance. Below is a simplified explanation of the nine key rites of Hajj:
1. Ihram
Pilgrims enter a sacred state by wearing simple white garments (two unstitched pieces for men; modest dress for women).
It marks a state of spiritual purity and equality.
2. Tawaf
Pilgrims circumambulate the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction.
It symbolizes unity and devotion to Allah as the center of their lives.
3. Sa’i
Walking briskly seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, re-enacting the desperate search for water by Hajra (AS).
A testimony to maternal devotion and divine provision.
4. Wuquf at Arafat
Pilgrims gather in the plain of Arafat, praying, repenting, and seeking mercy.
It is said that Hajj is invalid without standing at Arafat.
5. Muzdalifah
After sunset at Arafat, pilgrims spend the night in Muzdalifah under the open sky and collect pebbles for the next day’s stoning ritual.
6. Ramy al-Jamarat
Pilgrims throw seven pebbles at three pillars in Mina, symbolizing the rejection of evil and Satan.
It recalls the moment when Prophet Ibrahim (AS) rejected the devil’s temptation.
7. Qurbani (Sacrifice)
Sacrifice of an animal (goat, sheep, cow, or camel) in memory of Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son for Allah.
The meat is distributed among the poor, family, and self.
8. Halq or Taqsir
Men shave their heads (Halq), while women cut a small portion of their hair (Taqsir), signifying humility and renewal.
9. Tawaf al-Ifadah
Another circumambulation of the Kaaba after sacrifice, completing the essential rites of Hajj.
📅 Eid-ul-Adha 2025
Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is celebrated on the 10th of Zil-Hijjah. In 2025:
Saudi Arabia and Gulf countries will observe Eid on June 6.
India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and some other countries are expected to observe it on June 7, depending on moon sightings.
Eid-ul-Adha honors Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) unwavering faith and willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. Muslims worldwide commemorate this event by offering Qurbani and distributing meat to those in need.
🛂 Hajj Visa and Registration Process
To perform Hajj, pilgrims must apply for a Hajj visa via authorized travel agents or directly through the Nusuk Hajj platform. Here’s how the general process works:
1. Register online via Nusuk
2. Choose a Hajj package (group, individual, or economy)
3. Submit documents (passport, ID, vaccination proof)
4. Receive visa approval and schedule travel
Requirements may include:
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination (if required)
Health certificate
Mahram (for female pilgrims under certain age groups)
🧘♂️ The Spiritual Impact of Hajj
Hajj is more than just performing physical rituals. It is a life-transforming experience, leaving a lasting impact on the believer’s soul and conduct. It teaches:
Patience and perseverance
Unity and equality, as all pilgrims wear similar clothing and follow the same rituals regardless of race, status, or nationality
Self-discipline, by refraining from arguments, sins, and indulgences
Renewed devotion, as pilgrims return spiritually reborn, forgiven, and purified
The emotional moments of standing in Arafat, the collective chanting of “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik” (Here I am, O Allah), and the tearful prayers around the Kaaba are moments that remain etched in a pilgrim’s heart forever.
🛑 Things to Remember for Hajj 2025
Book early through authorized travel agents or the official Nusuk platform
Ensure all health, vaccination, and visa requirements are met
Be mentally and physically prepared; Hajj is a physically demanding experience
Respect the sacredness of the places, rituals, and fellow pilgrims
Practice patience and humility throughout the journey
🌙 Conclusion: A Journey of a Lifetime
Hajj 2025 is not just a religious obligation—it is an invitation from Allah to His House. It is a journey that transforms hearts, heals souls, and strengthens bonds between Muslims across nations and cultures.
For the 1.8 million pilgrims expected to perform Hajj this year, it will be a milestone in their faith journey. And for the rest of the Ummah, it’s a reminder of the values of sacrifice, submission, and sincerity.
May Allah accept the Hajj of all those undertaking the journey in 2025, and may He grant the opportunity to those who aspire to perform it. Ameen.