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The Day of Arafah, observed on May 26, 2026, is the ninth day of Dhul Hijja, marking the culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Muslims worldwide spend this day in prayer, seeking forgiveness and spiritual renewal. Join in reflection, offer sincere supplications, and connect with the global Muslim community.
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Expected Day of Arafah Deals
For the Day of Arafah, the focus shifts from commercial deals to spiritual devotion and charitable giving. Islamic charities like Islamic Relief Worldwide and Muslim Aid often run campaigns for donations, particularly for those performing Hajj or in need. Many individuals use this day to give to others, embodying the spirit of generosity and community. Halal food businesses and modest fashion brands may see increased activity as families prepare for Eid al-Adha, which follows shortly after. We will update this page with confirmed community events and charitable initiatives as May approaches.
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Day of Arafah Hero
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
History of Day of Arafah
The Day of Arafah is known as a very sacred and virtuous day for Muslims. It is the day the Prophet Muhammad gave his farewell sermon upon Mount Arafah to the many Muslims with whom he completed Hajj, near the end of his life. While the Prophet Muhammad stood on the plain of Arafah, verse 5:3 of the Qur’an was revealed to him.
Another name for the Day of Arafah is ‘Freedom from Fire.’ The meaning of Arafah is “to know.” Though fasting for those not on pilgrimage is desirable, most Muslims fast on this day as it is a day known to discard sins. The day commemorates finality of the religion of Islam, and of Divine revelation.
Islam teaches Muslims to view the Day of Arafah as a day of gratitude, hence the celebration of Eid the day after. It’s also a day of immense forgiveness with opportunity for great reward. Pilgrims doing Hajj, are not required to fast on this day. This follows the Sunnah of the Prophet, as he himself did not fast during this day because he was performing pilgrimage.
Today, it is possible to find up to 1.5 million Muslims headed toward the desert plains of Mecca to pray and supplicate to God. They can spend hours on the mountain, repenting and praying just as the Prophet Muhammad did. The entire day is usually spent in supplication, devotion and worship, prayer.
Day of Arafah timeline
The Prophet Muhammad is born in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
The Prophet Muhammad reveals the message of Islam verse by verse, calling for equality and unity within the Muslim community.
A Muslim army of 10,000 men marches on Mecca, which surrenders, establishing it as the center for Islam.
Shortly before his death, Prophet Muhammad performs his pilgrimage, guiding his followers on the rites of performing Hajj.
Prophet Muhammad addresses 114,000 pilgrims with his farewell sermon and reveals that the religion of Islam is now complete.
Sheikh Abdul Aziz al-Sheikh cannot deliver his usual Hajj sermon on the Day of Arafah for the first time in 35 years.
2.5 million Muslims all around the world gather at Mount Arafat, dressed in white garments to perform the ‘stoning of the devil’ ritual.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Day of Arafah
Local businesses can respectfully acknowledge the Day of Arafah by supporting charitable initiatives and fostering an inclusive environment. Restaurants might offer special iftar meals for those fasting, while retail businesses could partner with local mosques or Islamic charities for donation drives. Consider providing educational materials about the day’s significance to promote understanding and community engagement, ensuring any promotions are culturally sensitive and honor the spiritual nature of the observance.
Day of Arafah Traditions
The yearly pilgrimage of Hajj is compulsory for all Muslims. Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and is the holiest time of the year in the religion of Islam. The pilgrimage has seven rites and traditions that are followed in order. The House of Allah — The Holy Kaaba, is circulated around seven times. Next, Muslims spend a day praying on Mount Arafat, followed by an overnight stay in Muzdalifah. A ritual of throwing stones symbolizing ‘stoning of the devil’ is performed, then the distance between Al-Safa and Al-Mawra is covered seven times. Lastly, the farewell Tawaaf is performed in a counterclockwise direction. The Hajj rituals are much more elaborate than this, but these steps are the basics.
Those who cannot travel to Mecca for the pilgrimage spend the day intensely supplicating, praying, and fasting. The Day of Arafah carries a great spiritual reward for Muslims.
Day of Arafah By The Numbers
3 million – the number of people who performed Hajj in 2016.
64% – the percentage of people who performed Hajj in 2016 who were men.
55% – the percentage of people who performed Hajj in 2016 who were from outside Saudi Arabia.
5th – the final pillar of Islam.
8th – the date of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah when the pilgrimage begins every year.
12th – the date of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah when the pilgrimage ends every year.
2nd – the day of the pilgrimage when Muslims travel to Mount Arafat.
3rd – the day of the pilgrimage known as the ‘Day of Sacrifice.’
7 – the number most associated with the rituals of Hajj.
650 kilograms – the weight of the silk black cloth covering the Holy Kaaba.
Day of Arafah FAQs
When is Day of Arafah?
In 2027, the Day of Arafah begins at sundown on Saturday, May 15, and is observed on Sunday, May 16. This sacred day precedes Eid al-Adha and is a time of intense prayer and devotion.
What is the significance of the Day of Arafah?
This day is momentous as it commemorates the revelation of an important verse of the Qur’an (Surah al Maa’idah 5:3), signifying the completion of Allah’s favor upon Muslims. It’s a day of profound spiritual reflection and seeking divine mercy.
How many Muslims observe the Day of Arafah?
Across the global Muslim population, estimated at nearly 2 billion, a significant portion who are not on Hajj engage in special prayers and fasting. The spiritual importance of this day resonates deeply with believers, making it a widespread observance.
Is fasting on the Day of Arafah recommended?
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the virtue of fasting on this day for non-pilgrims, making it a significant act of worship. This voluntary fast is a powerful way to attain forgiveness and draw closer to Allah.
How to Observe Day of Arafah
Fast from dawn to dusk
Attempt to fast for the day. Muslims who are not on pilgrimage on this day are encouraged to fast from sunrise to sunset. They wake up before the sun, and stock up on hearty foods to get them through the day.
Make pilgrimage
Contemplate going to Mecca to join millions of Muslims who are completing Hajj on the Mount of Arafat. Muslims usually recite prayers, supplicate and spend the day in worship.
Consider donating to charity
Try and give money to charity and actively go out of your way to help others. Charity in Islam is seen as an act of worship, so it’s just as vital as other acts of worship.
5 Facts About The Day Of Arafah
A time to celebrate
It’s on the day after the start of pilgrimage, and Eid is celebrated the day after that.
Strength in numbers
It is said that on this day, the devil is enraged watching millions who he tempted to sin, repent and supplicate.
On Fridays, we pray
The Prophet Muhammad stood on the plain of Arafah on a Friday and this is one of the reasons Friday is a sacred day in Islam.
Forgiveness
This day gives Muslims the opportunity to be forgiven for the sins of last year and of the coming year.
When you believe
The Day of Arafah is so rich in blessings it is said to be a day equal to 10,000 days in virtue.
Why Day of Arafah is Important
Holiday? Celebrate!
After the day of Arafah, Eid is celebrated by all Muslims, not just the ones on pilgrimage. This is a chance to eat, dress up, meet family and be thankful.
Total eclipse of the heart
There are so many lovely meanings behind this day, but Arafah is also known as the mount of mercy. It is an opportunity for Muslims to repent and start over.
Favorite memory
This is a day in Islam with much significance of meaning. If on pilgrimage, this is the part of Hajj that is said to be the most memorable.
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