Saudi Arabia warns of severe heatwave during Hajj 2025

RIYADH:  Saudi Arabian officials have issued a heat warning just before the start of this year‘s Hajj, indicating that pilgrims may experience very high temperatures up to 47°C.

The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) cautioned that the holy sites are likely to endure very hot conditions. Temperatures are expected to be between 40 °C and 47 °C during the day and likely to be between 27 °C and 32 °C overnight.

Humidity levels are forecasted to be between 15% and 60%. Dr. Ayman Ghulam, CEO of NCM, explained that winds from the south and southwest at 25 to 35 km/h may cause dust plumes, which may affect visibility in the open and on highways.

He also reported that thunderstorms are a possibility in the Taif highlands, which may extend to the holy areas during Dhu Al Hijjah 8 to 13. These weather systems could result in strong downdrafts that may exacerbate dusty conditions.

Pilgrims are advised to protect themselves, drink ample amounts of water, and be aware of the latest weather information from official government sources during their pilgrimage.

In efforts to augment comfort, the Kingdom has launched heat-mitigation projects, including the recently launched cooled pedestrian pathway in Mecca.

In a separate initiative, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance received the second group of pilgrims as part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit.

This group consisted of 1,053 pilgrims from 76 different nations. Minister Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al-Sheikh used the opportunity to recall the aspirations of the Program, which are a reflection of Saudi Arabia as a host and facilitator, and the projects of global Islamic unity.

While all final arrangements are made at the holy sites to ensure a successful and safe pilgrimage, the Ministry of Tourism stated that there are now over 1,160 hospitality establishments in Makkah licensed (an increase of 54% in the first quarter of 2025 versus last year).