The tragic loss of 1,300 pilgrims during last year’s Hajj in Saudi Arabia highlighted the urgent need for safety measures. Analysts emphasize that effective crowd management is crucial to addressing these dangers and ensuring pilgrims’ safety.
Temperatures in Makkah soared to an astonishing 51.8°C last June. Around 1.8 million pilgrims participated in the annual Islamic rites, one of the five pillars of Islam. Saudi officials reported that 83% of the 1,301 fatalities involved individuals without official Hajj permits. These pilgrims were unable to access amenities like air-conditioned tents, which ease the pilgrimage experience.
The heat-related challenges of 2024 were part of a global trend. The Copernicus Climate Change Service declared it the hottest year ever recorded.
Preparations Underway for 2025 Hajj
Although specific details about preparations remain undisclosed, experts believe Saudi authorities are determined to prevent last year’s tragedies. Abderrezak Bouchama from the King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre has collaborated with the Saudi government for over three decades. He noted that preventing unauthorized pilgrims will likely be a key focus.
“I believe authorities will prioritize reducing the risk of illegal pilgrims,” Bouchama said. “They’ve learned valuable lessons, so we’ll see what measures are implemented.”
Long-term solutions, such as wearable sensors to detect heat stress, are still in development. These are unlikely to be available by June, he added.
Ongoing Heat-Mitigation Measures
Efforts to combat heat risks at holy sites have been ongoing for years. For example, air-conditioned areas near the Kaaba provide immediate relief. Additionally, a climate-controlled pathway connects the hills of Safa and Marwa within the Grand Mosque. Furthermore, roads frequented by pilgrims have been coated with a white cooling material. This coating lowers asphalt temperatures by 20%.
Volunteers play a vital role during the Hajj. They distribute water, umbrellas, and advice on avoiding hyperthermia. Moreover, misting systems and air-conditioned shopping areas offer respite between prayers. Mobile cooling units could also prove effective, according to Bouchama. He stressed the importance of immediate heat relief.
“Air-conditioning is the only effective measure against extreme heat,” he said. “Drinking water helps rehydrate, but getting out of the heat is essential.”
Long-Term Climate Challenges
While the timing of the Hajj will eventually shift to cooler months, this relief is temporary. A 2019 study published in Geophysical Research Letters predicted that heat stress during the Hajj will exceed the “extreme danger threshold” during specific periods. These include intervals between 2047 and 2086.
To ensure pilgrim safety in the years ahead, Saudi Arabia is expected to continue investing in advanced heat mitigation infrastructure. Additionally, stricter capacity controls will likely be implemented. These measures aim to make the holy pilgrimage safer for all participants.