Things to Do in Arafat

Arafat, located in the Mecca Province of Saudi Arabia, is one of Islam's most sacred sites and a crucial destination for millions of Muslim pilgrims performing Hajj each year. This plain, situated about 20 kilometers southeast of Mecca, holds immense religious significance as the place where Prophet Muhammad delivered his farewell sermon and where pilgrims gather on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah for the most important ritual of Hajj - the standing at Arafat (Wuquf). The area transforms dramatically during Hajj season, accommodating millions of pilgrims in a temporary city of tents and facilities. Outside of Hajj, Arafat maintains its spiritual atmosphere with the iconic Jabal al-Rahmah (Mount of Mercy) serving as a focal point for visitors. The Saudi government has invested heavily in infrastructure to support the massive influx of pilgrims, creating one of the world's most remarkable examples of temporary urban planning and logistics.

Dining in Arafat is primarily organized through Hajj tour operators who provide meals as part of pilgrimage packages, typically featuring halal Middle Eastern and international cuisine. During Hajj season, food distribution points and temporary restaurants serve millions of pilgrims with simple, nutritious meals. Outside of Hajj, dining options are limited, and most visitors eat in nearby Mecca where there's a wide range of restaurants serving traditional Saudi cuisine, Middle Eastern dishes, and international food. Many establishments cater specifically to pilgrims with affordable, filling meals and 24-hour service during religious seasons.

For religious purposes, Arafat is visited during Hajj season (8th-12th days of Dhul Hijjah in the Islamic calendar, rotating annually in the Gregorian calendar). The site can also be visited year-round for spiritual reflection, with the best weather conditions being October through March when temperatures are more moderate (20-30°C). Summer months (June-September) can be extremely hot with temperatures exceeding 45°C. Umrah pilgrims often visit throughout the year, but the experience and facilities are most comprehensive during Hajj season when the area is fully activated.