How long is Hajj 2025? Hajj in 2025 is expected to last for five to six days, beginning on the 8th day of Dhul-Hijjah (June 6, 2025) and concluding on the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah (June 11, 2025). This annual pilgrimage is a deeply significant event in Islam, with millions of Muslims gathering in Mecca to fulfill one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

The Importance and Duration of Hajj

Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, obligatory for all able-bodied Muslims with the financial means to undertake it at least once in their lifetime. It is performed in Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar, over a span of five to six days. The pilgrimage includes a series of rituals that commemorate the faith and dedication of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family. Hajj 2025 will begin on June 6 and end on June 11, though some pilgrims may extend their stay by a day.

Timeline of Hajj 2025: A Day-by-Day Guide

Hajj involves specific rituals performed on designated days in Dhul-Hijjah. Here’s a breakdown of each day’s events:

1. 8th Dhul-Hijjah (June 6, 2025) – Day of Preparation (Yawm al-Tarwiyah):
   • Activities: Pilgrims enter a state of Ihram, a sacred state of purity, and recite the Talbiyah (a prayer of intention). They travel from Mecca to Mina, a small town nearby.
   • Rituals in Mina: Pilgrims perform five prayers in Mina: Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha, and Fajr of the next day. The focus is on prayer and preparation for the main rituals of Hajj.
2. 9th Dhul-Hijjah (June 7, 2025) – Day of Arafat (Yawm al-Arafah):
   • The Most Important Day of Hajj: Pilgrims travel to the Plain of Arafat, where they stand in prayer, seeking forgiveness and reflecting on their faith.
   • Evening in Muzdalifah: After sunset, pilgrims move to Muzdalifah to spend the night under the open sky, collecting pebbles for the upcoming ritual of stoning.
3. 10th Dhul-Hijjah (June 8, 2025) – Eid al-Adha and the Day of Sacrifice (Yawm al-Nahr):
   • Rituals in Mina: Pilgrims perform the symbolic stoning of the devil by throwing pebbles at the largest pillar (Jamrat al-Aqabah).
   • Sacrifice: Pilgrims may sacrifice an animal (often a goat, sheep, or cow) in commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son.
   • Hair Cutting/Shaving: Men shave or cut their hair, while women trim a portion of their hair, symbolizing humility and renewal.
   • Tawaf and Sa’i: Pilgrims return to Mecca to perform Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba) and Sa’i (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah).
4. 11th Dhul-Hijjah (June 9, 2025) – First Day of Tashreeq:
   • Stoning Rituals: Pilgrims return to Mina to perform the stoning ritual, throwing seven pebbles at each of the three pillars (Jamrat al-Ula, Jamrat al-Wusta, and Jamrat al-Aqabah).
   • Prayer and Reflection: Pilgrims spend the night in Mina, engaging in prayer, reflection, and community gathering.
5. 12th Dhul-Hijjah (June 10, 2025) – Second Day of Tashreeq:
   • Repeated Stoning: The stoning ritual at the three pillars is repeated, with pilgrims reflecting on their commitment to resist temptation and remain steadfast in faith.
   • Completion Option: Some pilgrims leave Mina after the ritual on this day, while others stay for the final day.
6. 13th Dhul-Hijjah (June 11, 2025) – Final Day of Tashreeq (Optional):
   • Last Stoning Ritual: For those who remain, the final stoning ritual takes place, marking the completion of Hajj.
   • Farewell Tawaf: Before leaving Mecca, pilgrims perform the Tawaf al-Wada (Farewell Tawaf) around the Kaaba, a closing act of devotion.

The Spiritual Significance of Each Day of Hajj

Each day of Hajj is designed to honor the trials and devotion of Prophet Ibrahim, his wife Hajar, and their son Ismail. From the standing at Arafat, which represents a day of intense prayer and forgiveness, to the symbolic stoning, which signifies resisting sin, each ritual serves as a reminder of the values of patience, humility, and submission to God.

Additional Considerations for Hajj 2025

• Extended Stay in Mecca and Medina: Many pilgrims choose to spend additional time in Mecca or visit Medina after Hajj to pray at the Prophet’s Mosque.
• Travel and Accommodations: Given the high number of pilgrims, arrangements for travel and accommodations are made well in advance. Countries with large Muslim populations often set quotas to manage the flow of pilgrims.

Health and Safety During Hajj

Millions of pilgrims gather in close quarters, so health and safety are prioritized:

• Hydration and Nutrition: Pilgrims are encouraged to stay hydrated and maintain nutrition, particularly due to the hot climate.
• Physical Preparedness: Walking long distances is a significant part of Hajj, so physical preparation helps pilgrims endure the journey.
• Vaccinations and Health Precautions: Many countries, including Saudi Arabia, require vaccinations for infectious diseases to ensure the safety of all pilgrims.

Eid al-Adha: The Celebration of Sacrifice During Hajj

The 10th of Dhul-Hijjah marks Eid al-Adha, celebrated by Muslims worldwide as the Feast of Sacrifice. Pilgrims participate in sacrificial rituals, while Muslims at home also perform animal sacrifices, distributing meat to the needy. Eid al-Adha emphasizes selflessness, generosity, and remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s faith.

How Technology Aids Hajj Pilgrims in 2025

Modern technology enhances the Hajj experience by:

• Navigation Apps: With vast crowds and multiple sites, navigation apps help pilgrims find their way around key locations.
• Prayer Timetable Alerts: Many apps offer reminders for prayers and important rituals, helping pilgrims stay on track.
• Safety and Health Alerts: The Saudi government often issues health and safety alerts via SMS, keeping pilgrims informed of precautions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hajj 2025

1. Can Hajj be shorter than five days?
   • Traditionally, Hajj lasts five to six days. However, some rituals can be completed in five days, especially if pilgrims choose to depart on the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah.
2. Is Hajj physically demanding?
   • Yes, Hajj requires walking long distances and performing rituals in large crowds, which can be physically strenuous. Physical preparation is recommended.
3. What is the significance of the Farewell Tawaf?
   • The Farewell Tawaf is a final act of devotion, symbolizing a pilgrim’s departure from Mecca and their spiritual journey’s end.

The Meaningful Journey of Hajj 2025

Hajj 2025 will be a profound journey of faith, sacrifice, and devotion, lasting approximately five to six days. Each day holds spiritual significance, guiding pilgrims through rituals that commemorate the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim and his family. By observing the Hajj 2025 timeline and embracing each ritual’s meaning, pilgrims will fulfill one of the most sacred pillars of Islam, uniting millions in a shared expression of faith and submission.