Hajj 2025: Arafat Sermon to be broadcast in 35 languages in real time

Dubai: The Presidency for Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has announced plans to translate and broadcast this year’s Arafat Sermon in 35 languages, aiming to reach more than five million Muslims worldwide.

Described as the largest enrichment project in the Presidency’s history, the effort seeks to deepen the spiritual experience of Hajj pilgrims and share the sermon’s central message of moderation and balance with a global audience. The initiative will feature real-time translations, digital streaming, and wide dissemination across social media platforms.

The project was officially launched by Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman Al Sudais, President of Religious Affairs at the Two Holy Mosques, during a meeting held at the Grand Mosque. Final preparations were reviewed, confirming the Presidency’s readiness to deliver the sermon’s message in collaboration with key partners.

Sheikh Al Sudais described the project as a reflection of the Kingdom’s commitment to tolerance, coexistence, and global harmony. “This initiative is central to the Presidency’s mission of enriching the spiritual journey of the Guests of Allah and sharing the moderate message of Islam with the world,” Sheikh Al Sudais said.

This year, the sermon will be delivered by Sheikh Dr. Saleh bin Humaid, Imam and Preacher of the Grand Mosque, as part of the official Hajj program. The real-time multilingual broadcast aims to vastly expand the sermon’s accessibility, particularly for non-Arabic-speaking Muslims.

Saudi Arabia has increasingly relied on digital platforms and smart technologies to amplify its religious services and spiritual outreach, especially during Hajj, when millions gather from across the globe.

The Arafat Sermon, traditionally delivered on the second day of Hajj at Mount Arafat, holds immense religious and symbolic significance. It is considered one of the most powerful annual Islamic addresses, with themes usually focusing on mercy, equality, justice, and devotion.

Huda Ata is an independent writer based in the UAE.