Saudi Arabia has welcomed over 1.4 million worshippers in the kingdom as it implements measures to ensure pilgrims experience a safe and spiritually fulfilling hajj amid the summer heat.
The annual pilgrimage begins on Wednesday and Saudi’s authorities are ensuring the event runs smoothly as temperatures soar.
As part of these efforts, officials have enforced strict penalties on those attempting to enter Mecca without a valid Hajj permit. Authorities highlighted that fatalities in previous years involved unregistered pilgrims who lacked access to official services.
More than 295,000 individuals without authorisation have been turned away for this year’s hajj.
His Excellency Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh emphasised the religious significance of adhering to official procedures, stressing that performing hajj without a permit is a serious violation of Shariah and public order.
He also urged all pilgrims to receive the required vaccinations and to adhere strictly to health and security guidelines.
Saudi messaging in the lead-up to the hajj has strongly emphasised that compliance with regulations is not just a matter of safety — but also a religious duty.
The Council of Senior Scholars recently stated that “Obtaining a Hajj permit is a form of honoring Al-Haram and the Holy Sites. It also aligns with the Shariah objective of facilitating the performance of worship and rituals.”
Proactive safety measures save lives
As with any large-scale event, regulating attendance helps prevent overcrowding and ensures the audience can participate safely.
In previous years, high temperatures have tragically led to fatalities. The Ministry of Health reported on Monday that it had already treated 44 cases of heatstroke.
Deputy Minister of Health Abdullah Asiri told AFP that authorities are prioritising the prevention and treatment of heat-related illnesses, given that hajj coincides with peak summer heat.
He said 50,000 medical and administrative staff have been mobilised and over 700 hospital beds have been prepared with ventilators for severe cases.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah also issued a reminder on social media, urging pilgrims to take precautions against the sun: “Protecting yourself from the sun is vital for your well-being during hajj. Use sun protection to prevent heat exhaustion and stay healthy throughout the rituals.”
Authorities are constantly reminding pilgrims of the steps they can take to protect themselves from heat exhaustion.
Hajj 2025
Some pilgrims began their journey to Mina after Maghrib on Tuesday, with the remainder set to leave just after the fajr on Wednesday.
Of the over one million pilgrims who have arrived, 94% travelled by air, 4.8% by land, and just 0.5% by sea.
