Arafat Sermon to Echo Worldwide in 35 Languages During Hajj 2025
Jeddah — Saudi Arabia has unveiled an ambitious plan to deliver this year’s Arafat sermon to millions of Muslims across the globe in real time, translating the sacred message into 35 languages during the 2025 Hajj season.
The initiative—launched on Thursday by the Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque—aims to reach an estimated five million listeners, amplifying the spiritual centerpiece of Hajj far beyond the plains of Arafat.
“Spreading the guidance of the Arafat sermon, with its themes of human fraternity, civilizational harmony and religious tolerance, is a cornerstone of our mission,” said Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, President of Religious Affairs. He described the translation project as a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to serving Islam and Muslims everywhere.
Early Preparation, Global Vision
According to the Saudi Press Agency, the presidency formed a dedicated committee months ago to standardize linguistic terminology, refine theological nuances and ensure technical excellence. The goal, Al-Sudais noted, is to project the Kingdom’s “moderate global message” uninterrupted—whether the listener is in Jakarta, Lagos or London.
Technical Backbone
• Live, simultaneous interpretation will originate from specially equipped studios in Makkah.
• On-site and online channels—including satellite, radio, mobile apps and social platforms—will carry the sermon.
• Sign-language feeds and accessible formats are being developed to widen inclusivity.
Saudi Arabia’s Broader Mandate
The translation drive dovetails with Vision 2030 goals to modernize Hajj services and showcase Saudi leadership in interfaith dialogue. Last year, the Makkah Route Initiative streamlined pre-departure immigration in eight countries; this year’s multilingual Arafat sermon expands the Kingdom’s soft-power outreach to the global ummah.
“By harnessing technology and linguistic expertise, we are honoring our duty as Custodians of the Two Holy Mosques,” Al-Sudais said. “Our aim is a Hajj experience that unites hearts, no matter what language they speak.”
As pilgrims prepare to ascend Arafat in early June, the new translation project promises to weave a single tapestry of devotion—from the desert of western Arabia to every corner of the Muslim world.
