Islamabad, 30 May 2025: Heat During Hajj has become a central concern as Saudi Arabia’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) warned of exceptionally high temperatures expected during this year’s Hajj.
According to officials, daytime temperatures in the holy sites could reach up to 47°C, with nighttime temperatures likely to remain between 27°C and 32°C. Humidity is forecast to fluctuate from 15% to 60%, intensifying the overall heat stress for pilgrims.
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Dr. Ayman Ghulam, Chief Executive of the NCM, noted that dry northwesterly winds ranging between 25 to 35 km/h could carry dust, leading to poor visibility on highways and open plains.
He also indicated a potential for thunderstorms in the Taif region, which may extend to Makkah’s sacred zones from Dhu al-Hijjah 8 to 13, possibly intensifying dust storms due to strong downdrafts.
Authorities Boost Safety and Hospitality Amid Rising Temperatures
In light of the Heat During Hajj warning, Saudi officials are urging pilgrims to adopt protective habits, including staying hydrated, avoiding direct sun exposure, and closely following official weather advisories.
To counter the effects of the heat, the government has introduced climate-control initiatives such as a cooled pedestrian walkway in Mecca, part of a larger plan to lower road surface temperatures and ease walking conditions during peak heat hours.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Tourism confirmed that over 1,160 hotels and lodging facilities in Makkah have been officially licensed a 54% increase compared to the same quarter last year ensuring expanded accommodation options for the influx of pilgrims.
The General Directorate of Passports reported that more than 1.25 million pilgrims have arrived in the Kingdom so far, with the majority arriving by air.
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Advanced screening systems and multilingual personnel have been deployed at key entry points to streamline procedures.
Separately, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance welcomed the second batch of pilgrims under the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program, including 1,053 individuals from 76 countries.
Minister Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al-Sheikh emphasized that the initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s enduring commitment to hospitality, faith unity, and international outreach.
As final arrangements continue, officials say the holy sites are being fully equipped to manage both the logistical and climatic challenges of Heat During Hajj.
