Hajj 2025: Saudi Arabia issues heatwave alert

JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia has issued a strong warning to Hajj pilgrims this year, cautioning them about intense heat and challenging weather conditions, including possible thunderstorms and low visibility.

According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), temperatures at the holy sites could soar between 40°C and 47°C during the day, while nights will stay warm, ranging from 27°C to 32°C. Humidity levels may fluctuate between 15 per cent and 60 per cent, adding to the discomfort.

Dr Ayman Ghulam, CEO of NCM, said that northerly and northwesterly winds — blowing at 25 to 35 km/h — could stir up dust and reduce visibility, especially along highways and open areas. He also warned of possible thunderstorms over the Taif highlands from the 8th to 13th of Dhu Al Hijjah, which may spread to Makkah, bringing strong downdrafts and worsening dust conditions.

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Authorities have urged pilgrims to stay safe by staying hydrated, using umbrellas, and following official weather updates.

To help pilgrims cope with the heat, Saudi Arabia has launched several initiatives, including a newly opened cooled pedestrian walkway in Makkah under the “Cooled Roads Initiative,” designed to reduce surface temperatures and improve comfort.

Experts have raised concerns about growing heat-related risks for pilgrims, pointing to climate change as a major factor affecting the region’s rising temperatures.