Mecca is once again filled with crowds: as tradition dictates, in the final days of the Islamic lunar year, hundreds of thousands of Muslims from across the world arrive to perform the Hajj — one of the most sacred acts of devotion in Islam. But this year, as in recent ones, the pilgrimage is shadowed by a growing concern: extreme heat, with temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius (113°F). According to Neue Zürcher Zeitung (NZZ), Saudi authorities are taking the threat seriously, aiming to prevent a repeat of the tragic events of Hajj 2024.
A Deadly Heatwave
The Hajj in June 2024 became one of the deadliest in recent memory. Official figures report that over 1,300 pilgrims died from heatstroke and exhaustion, with an additional 2,700 treated for heat-related illnesses. Temperatures in Mecca soared to 50°C (122°F), turning every moment under the sun into a test of endurance. As NZZ notes, the majority of the deceased were unregistered pilgrims, many of whom came on tourist visas, lacking access to air-conditioned tents, buses, or medical aid.
Saudi authorities confirmed that 80% of the fatalities were among those who lacked official Hajj permits. A significant number came from Egypt, where Hajj visas are distributed through a lottery system. Without access to proper services, they were forced to walk long distances through the scorching streets, exposed to the harshest conditions.
What Changed in 2025?
Hajj 2025 began in early June, and Saudi Arabia implemented a range of preventative measures ahead of time. Over 1.5 million pilgrims have already arrived in Mecca, primarily from India, Pakistan, and North Africa. Officials expect the total number to exceed 2 million by the end of the pilgrimage.
Key changes introduced this year include:
- Stricter entry control: Over 200,000 tourist visas were canceled before the Hajj. Entry into the Kingdom for pilgrimage purposes now strictly requires a special Hajj visa. Unauthorized pilgrims face fines or deportation.
- Children under 12 are prohibited from participating in this year’s Hajj — an added safety measure.
- Mass tree planting: Thousands of new trees have been planted along the pilgrimage routes to provide shade.
- Infrastructure upgrades: Roads were resurfaced with materials designed to retain lower temperatures. New shading structures and misting systems have been installed.
- Medical stations were set up across the city, drones monitor crowd movements, and authorities advised pilgrims to avoid the sun during midday hours.
More Than Just the Kaaba
Hajj is not limited to the circumambulation of the Kaaba — the sacred cube structure in the center of the Grand Mosque in Mecca — but includes a series of complex rituals. Pilgrims also gather on Mount Arafat, believed to be the site of the Prophet Muhammad’s final sermon. Throughout the pilgrimage, participants wear simple white garments symbolizing purity and equality before God.
According to Islamic teachings, every Muslim who is physically and financially able must perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime. It is one of the five pillars of Islam, alongside the declaration of faith, daily prayer, fasting during Ramadan, and giving alms.
Safety First: A National Priority
As NZZ notes, tragedies during Hajj are not new. One of the worst incidents occurred in 2015, when more than 2,000 pilgrims were killed in a stampede. In recent years, however, Saudi Arabia has significantly increased efforts to prevent such disasters.
Hajj is not only a religious pillar but also an economic lifeline for the Kingdom. Alongside oil and gas, it is one of Saudi Arabia’s most vital sources of revenue. Billions of dollars flow into the country each year through pilgrimage-related services, making safety and order a matter of national importance.
So Far, So Good
As of now, Hajj 2025 is proceeding smoothly. No major incidents have been reported, though temperatures are expected to climb to 45°C (113°F) over the weekend. The pilgrimage concludes on Monday with the final circumambulation of the Kaaba, after which millions of pilgrims will begin their journey home.
According to analysts cited by NZZ, the future of Hajj depends heavily on Saudi Arabia’s ability to adapt to the accelerating climate crisis. With each passing year, the heat intensifies, and the Hajj becomes not only a spiritual test — but a physical one. The question today is no longer just about faith, but survival.
This article was prepared based on materials published by Neue Zürcher Zeitung. The author does not claim authorship of the original text but presents their interpretation of the content for informational purposes.
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