Hajj Pilgrims Reach Mount Arafat

Worshippers from across the globe have converged on the Plain of Arafat to perform the most critical rites of the Hajj.

Despite the extreme heat, which has reached 45C in some areas, pilgrims spent the day in intense prayer and reflection at the site where the Prophet Muhammad delivered his final sermon.

Saudi health authorities have deployed drones to deliver medical supplies and monitor the crowds for signs of heat exhaustion.

The successful completion of the Day of Arafah is required for a pilgrim's Hajj to be considered valid.