As millions of pilgrims begin the annual Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi authorities have issued a crucial advisory urging worshippers to avoid heat-related incidents by staying inside their camps during the hottest hours of the day.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah on Wednesday warned pilgrims to remain in shaded areas and avoid direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. on June 4 and June 5, as soaring temperatures threaten to exacerbate health risks during this year’s pilgrimage.
The warning comes amid heightened concerns following last year’s deadly heatwave, which saw temperatures soar to a staggering 51.8 degrees Celsius (125.2 Fahrenheit) and resulted in the deaths of 1,301 pilgrims.
With similar extreme weather conditions forecasted, the Saudi government has significantly increased preventive measures to safeguard the health and safety of the millions of Muslims gathering in Makkah.
Temperatures are expected to rise above 40°C this week, coinciding with the start of Hajj on Wednesday, June 4. Saudi officials have mobilized more than 40 government agencies and deployed 250,000 officials, doubling the efforts compared to previous years to combat heat-related illnesses and incidents.
Tawfiq al-Rabiah, Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Minister, told AFP that shaded areas within the pilgrimage sites have been expanded by 50,000 square meters (approximately 12 acres) to provide relief from the blistering sun.
In addition, thousands of medical personnel will be stationed across critical locations, ready to treat heat exhaustion and related conditions.
Over 400 cooling units have been deployed to provide extra comfort to pilgrims, while new technologies including artificial intelligence are being utilized to monitor crowds and heat risks in real time.
A new fleet of drones equipped with advanced cameras is helping authorities oversee the vast crowds and respond swiftly to any emergencies. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has issued several detailed guidelines aimed at reducing pilgrims’ exposure to extreme heat.
Worshippers are urged to pray the midday (Dhuhr) and afternoon (Asr) prayers inside their tents rather than outdoors, and to avoid visiting particularly exposed locations such as Masjid Namirah and Jabal Al-Rahmah during the critical heat hours.
Pilgrims are also advised to use buses or trains when traveling to Muzdalifah, instead of walking, to reduce physical exertion under the sun.
Hydration remains a top priority. Pilgrims are repeatedly reminded to drink plenty of fluids and use protective measures such as umbrellas and lightweight clothing to shield themselves from the sun.
Health officials have stressed the importance of recognizing early symptoms of heatstroke and heat exhaustion, as these can develop quickly under such extreme temperatures.
Already, on Monday June 2, the Ministry of Health reported treating 44 cases of heatstroke in Makkah as temperatures climbed past 40°C. The ministry’s swift medical response and the extensive precautionary measures are crucial to prevent a repeat of last year’s tragic toll.
With the world watching and millions of faithful converging for this deeply spiritual journey, Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive approach combining expanded infrastructure, advanced technology, and heightened public awareness seeks to ensure a safer Hajj experience amid challenging climatic conditions.
As the pilgrimage unfolds, pilgrims are urged to remain vigilant, follow official advice, and prioritize their health to complete their sacred rites safely during the intense summer heat.