Inside a tent in Mina Pilgrims in Mina and Arafat are divided into groups, and their accommodation is pre-allocated according to their country of origin. Streets and camps are numbered, so learn your camp number or note it down somewhere. Men and women normally stay in separate tents.
Before 2000, tents in Mina were small and basic. However, after a major fire in 1997, which killed over 200 pilgrims and injured many more, they were replaced with fireproof tents with air conditioning, electricity, lights, and electric plugs.
The tents in Arafat are usually large and wide. Some tents have air conditioning and fans, while others don’t have anything of the sort. It would, therefore, be a good idea to bring a portable cooling device as the day of Arafat can get extremely hot.
The comfortability of your tent depends on your Hajj package. Some tents are extremely busy and cramped, so it’s best to contact your tour operator if you have questions or concerns regarding your accommodation.
Accommodation tips for Mina:
Pilgrims praying salah in a tent
- If you have a choice, don’t choose a tent near the toilets or a cooking area.
- Try to choose a tent near the middle or back of the camp because the entrances to camps are usually busy.
- If you are in a larger tent, choose a sleeping area closer to the back of the tent. The front and middle areas of the tent are normally used for salah, lectures, and eating, so you will avoid having to constantly move your things around to accommodate this, which can prove quite an inconvenience.
- As soon as you enter your tent, claim your position by placing your belongings in the space you have selected. Avoid confrontations or arguments over space in the tent.
- If you are performing Hajj with your spouse, you can choose the corner of the tent where you are both on either side of the partition. This allows for easier communication and sharing of food.
- Don’t spend too much time discussing worldly affairs in your tent.
- Don’t be too concerned about what is happening in other tents or which personalities are present in those tents.
- Attend lectures in other tents if you feel they may benefit you.
In Muzdalifah, you will stay in an open area under the night sky. There are no tents or other accommodation facilities here.
Sleeping
Pilgrims sleeping in Mina
The comfort of your sleeping experience in Mina can vary greatly depending on your chosen package. For instance, the European al-Muaisim Camp offers makeshift beds, cushions, and blankets, ensuring a more comfortable stay. Your tour operator can provide more detailed information about the amenities available in your tent.
If your tent lacks these amenities, bringing a sleeping bag could be beneficial. Most tents in Mina are lined with carpets, adding an extra layer of comfort.
In Muzdalifah, pilgrims sleep under the night sky
In Muzdalifah, finding a space to sleep can initially prove quite troublesome due to the sheer number of people. When you find a space, ensure it’s with your group. If you take a sleeping bag, the night in Muzdalifah would be the ideal time to use it. If not, you should be able to buy a cheap mat, inflatable pillow and a blanket.
You will notice many pilgrims sleeping in all sorts of places – on the streets, under bridges, in the tunnels, and even on top of the mountains.
Food
Hajj packages normally provide food for the days of Hajj, although you may have to pay a little extra if it wasn’t included in your original package.
You will need to check with your tour operator regarding the type of food that will be provided; meals can be pre-packed and come in a box, or they may be cooked and served directly to you. The time these meals are served can also vary, so be prepared to eat irregularly.
Some tents also provide unlimited water, soft drinks, juice, tea, coffee, ice cream and snacks.
There are some shops to buy food from in Mina, although the price of everything doubles during the Hajj period so be prepared to pay extra. There are no food shops in Arafat and Muzdalifah.
It is a good idea to keep biscuits, dates, fruits, and water with you. Ensure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as it can get very hot. It’s also advisable to keep some sweets to provide you with energy when you need it.
