Muzdalifah is the place where pilgrims gather and spend the night between Arafat and Mina during hajj.
In the standard sequence of major hajj rites, pilgrims travel from Mina to the plain of Arafat on 9 Dhu al-Hijjah. After sunset, they proceed to Muzdalifah, where they commonly pray Maghrib and Isha together and remain until after dawn. Many pilgrims also collect small stones there for the later stoning ritual at the Jamarat.
Pilgrims then move toward Mina on 10 Dhu al-Hijjah, the day associated with the sacrifice and the first major stoning. Some groups, including people with certain health or care needs, may depart Muzdalifah earlier under recognized religious rulings.
Muzdalifah is distinct from Arafat, where the central standing rite takes place, and Mina, where pilgrims stay during several days and perform the stoning rites. These three locations are close to Mecca but have different roles.