The Hajj rituals have officially begun, and pilgrims have started arriving in the tent city of Mina. The movement of pilgrims to Mina will continue until this afternoon.

Pilgrims will spend the night in Mina today, while tomorrow, on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, they will depart for Arafat to perform Wuquf-e-Arafah, the most important ritual of Hajj.

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The weather in Mina and Arafat is extremely hot. According to the meteorological department, temperatures on the Day of Arafah are expected to reach around 45 degrees Celsius.

Saudi authorities have increased shaded areas, mist fans, and medical facilities at the holy sites to protect pilgrims from the intense heat.