5 Days of Hajj: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Pilgrims

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The journey of Hajj is one of the most spiritually powerful experiences a Muslim can have. For first-time pilgrims — especially younger expats and Gen Z Muslims — understanding what happens during the five main days of Hajj can feel overwhelming. This post is a simple, step-by-step breakdown of what each day involves — from Mina to Arafat, Muzdalifah, and the Rami days. Whether you're planning your first Hajj or helping someone else prepare, this guide is made to be easy, brief, and practical.

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🕋 The 5 Days of Hajj – A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

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🟤 Day 1: 8th Dhul Hijjah – Mina (Yawm at-Tarwiyah)

View of Mina

• Pilgrims travel from Makkah to Mina after sunrise.

• Pray Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha, and Fajr in Mina — shortened, not combined.

• Spend the night in Mina preparing spiritually for Arafat.

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⚪ Day 2: 9th Dhul Hijjah – Arafat (Yawm al-Arafah)

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  The ground of Arafat

  After Fajr, head to Arafat and stay there until sunset (Wuquf).

• Pray Dhuhr and Asr combined at Arafat and engage in deep dua.

• Leave Arafat after sunset and travel to Muzdalifah (no Maghrib prayer in Arafat).

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🌌 Night of 9th Dhul Hijjah – Muzdalifah Stay

The ground of Muzdalifah

• Pray Maghrib and Isha together after arriving in Muzdalifah.

• Collect 49 to 70 pebbles (small size) for stoning (Rami) over the next few days.

• Rest/sleep under the open sky — one of the humbling highlights of Hajj.

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🔴 Day 3: 10th Dhul Hijjah – Eid Day: Rami, Qurbani & Tawaaf

Jamarat al-Aqabah

• In Mina: Stone Jamrat al-Aqabah (largest pillar) with 7 pebbles.

• Offer your Qurbani (animal sacrifice).

• Men shave heads or shorten hair; women trim a finger-tip length.

• Open your Ehram, Take shower, wear fresh clothes.

• Go to Makkah for Tawaaf-e-Ziyarah and Sa’i between Safa and Marwah.

• Return to Mina for the night before Fajr.

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⚪ Day 4 & 5: 11th–12th Dhul Hijjah – Rami Days in Mina

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  Jamarat for Rami

  Each day, perform Rami at all three Jamaraat between Zuhr and Maghrib prayer. (7 pebbles per pillar = 21 total per day).

• Spend both nights in Mina.

• You may leave after the 12th Dhul Hijjah (before sunset) or stay one more day (13th Dhul Hijjah) for an additional Rami — which is Sunnah.

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📌 Final Thoughts

These five days are the heart of Hajj. While the rituals may seem physically intense, every step holds spiritual wisdom. Prepare well, stay patient, and make the most of your moments in Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Makkah. May your Hajj be accepted and your journey be smooth, Ameen!

MiddleEastHustler is here to guide the young and Gen-Z about one of the most prestigious gifts from Allah and guide how to efectively perform Hajj. 

If you are reading this as first post on this blog, please check below links for our full guide about Hajj.

MiddleEast Hustler Complete Hajj Guide