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On the 8th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims enter ihram and travel from their Makkah accommodations to Mina, approximately 5-8 km east of Masjid al-Haram. Most travel by organized buses arranged by their Hajj operator, though walking is permissible. Upon arrival, locate your assigned tent and settle in. Continue reciting the Talbiyah throughout the journey. The stay in Mina on this day is sunnah, not wajib.
On the morning of the 8th of Dhul Hijjah, perform ghusl and enter ihram from your hotel or accommodation in Makkah. Your accommodation serves as your miqat for Hajj (for those already in Makkah). Make the intention: 'Labbayk Allahumma Hajjan' and begin the Talbiyah. Ensure you have your Hajj identification bracelet or card, tent assignment details, and group leader's contact information.
Pack a manageable day bag with essentials: sufficient water (at least 2 liters), snacks (dates, nuts, energy bars), all medications, your identification documents (passport copy, Hajj permit), phone with IhramOS offline content loaded, charger and power bank, unscented sunscreen, a small umbrella or cooling towel, and a light blanket or sleeping mat if not provided by your operator.
These are the most frequent errors pilgrims make during this stage of Hajj.
Scholarly references supporting this guidance from established Islamic sources.
Follow your Hajj group's instructions for departure. Most groups arrange buses that depart in the morning of the 8th. The journey from central Makkah to Mina takes 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on traffic. Continue reciting the Talbiyah on the bus. Some pilgrims walk to Mina (5-8 km), which takes 1.5-2 hours on foot — this was the Prophet's practice and is rewarding but physically demanding.
Upon arrival in Mina, locate your assigned tent camp and specific tent. Mina is organized into numbered zones and camps — your Hajj operator will have your assignment details. The tent city stretches through the valley and houses over 2 million pilgrims. Note landmarks near your tent for easy return. Store your belongings in the space provided.
Pray Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha at their designated times, each shortened to two rak'at (except Maghrib which remains three). According to the majority of scholars, do not combine prayers at Mina — pray each at its own time. The Prophet (peace be upon him) prayed each prayer separately at Mina.