Saudi Arabia issues heat warning for this year's Hajj

The Saudi health ministry has issued a warning about rising temperatures, expected to reach 48ºC, as pilgrims prepare for Hajj this week. Muhammad Al-Abdulaali, the health ministry’s spokesperson, emphasised that the high temperatures pose a significant challenge for the Hajj season, starting on June 14.

Pilgrims are advised to follow health guidelines, including carrying umbrellas, staying hydrated and taking rest periods to avoid heat fatigue. The ministry is committed to providing a safe environment for pilgrims despite the harsh climatic conditions.

The National Center for Meteorology forecasts temperatures in Makkah to range between 45ºC and 48ºC, with minimal chances of rain. The Kingdom has implemented several measures to ensure a smooth and safe pilgrimage.

For the first time, a mobile control and monitoring centre equipped with sensors has been launched to manage traffic flow within Makkah. This system will provide real-time monitoring of public transport vehicles and measure traffic density along designated routes.

Around 500 trained civilian security personnel have been deployed by the General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque to assist in crowd management. These teams will also oversee security operations, protect property and individuals and manage public facilities.

In Madinah, volunteers have dedicated over 100,000 hours to support pilgrims. Their services include guidance, crowd management, multilingual field support, distribution of meals, and monitoring of Zamzam water and health conditions.