What is Hajj?
Hajj is the sacred pilgrimage performed by Muslims at the holy mosque of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is an obligation upon every Muslim at least once in their lifetime, provided they have the financial, physical, and emotional means to do so.
Hajj takes place annually during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, from the 8th to the 12th or 13th of the month.
When is Hajj 2025?
Hajj 2025 is expected to take place from June 4th to June 9th, 2025 (8th to 13th of Dhul Hijjah, 1446 AH), depending on the sighting of the moon.
Since the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, Hajj shifts **11-12 days earlier** each year in the Gregorian calendar.
Why is Hajj Important?
Hajj is a spiritual duty** that symbolizes submission to Allah (SWT). It was commanded in the Holy Qur’an, as Allah states:
“You will enter the Sacred Masjid, God willing, perfectly secure, and you will cut your hair or shorten it (as you fulfill the pilgrimage rituals) there. You will not have any fear. Since He knew what you did not know, He has coupled this with an immediate victory.”
(Qur’an 48:27)
Although Muslims are only required to perform Hajj once, they may do so multiple times if they are able.
How Long Does Hajj Last?
The Hajj pilgrimage lasts five to six days**, from Dhul Hijjah 8th to 12th or 13th (June 4th – June 9th, 2025**).
When the new crescent moon is sighted, Eid al-Adha** begins, which lasts for four days.
Hajj consists of a series of rituals that require movement between locations, with pilgrims walking an average of 5-15 km per day. It is both a spiritual and physical challenge** that demands patience and preparation.
However, Hajj offers Muslims the opportunity to renew their faith, seek forgiveness, and draw closer to Allah (SWT).
Does Hajj Occur on the Same Dates Every Year?
Yes, Hajj always takes place between the 8th and 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah (Islamic calendar), which corresponds to different Gregorian dates each year due to the lunar cycle.
Hajj shares some similarities with Umrah, but unlike Hajj, Umrah is voluntary and can be performed at any time of the year.
Where Does Hajj Take Place?
The pilgrimage of Hajj takes place in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, and consists of a series of rites performed in multiple locations, including:
- Makkah – The central location of the pilgrimage.
- Mina – The tent city where pilgrims stay.
- Mount ‘Arafah – The most significant site where supplications are made.
- Muzdalifah – Where pilgrims collect pebbles for the stoning ritual.
Who is Exempt from Hajj?
Although Hajj is required of every Muslim at least once, it is not meant to be a burden. The following individuals are exempt from Hajj:
- Children – While they may accompany their parents, they are not required to perform Hajj.
- The weak, sick, elderly, or physically incapable – Those unable to endure the physical demands of Hajj.
- Financially incapable individuals – Those who cannot afford Hajj are not obligated to go.
- People in debt – A Muslim may still perform Hajj while in debt, provided that:
- The creditor permits it.
- The debtor has enough time to repay their debt.
- Hajj does not affect their ability to pay off the debt.