As the annual Hajj pilgrimage begins, hospitals in Saudi Arabia are bracing for a surge in heat exhaustion cases due to soaring temperatures.
The Mina Emergency Hospital, one of 15 facilities operating during Hajj, is prepared for worst-case scenarios following last year’s tragedy, where over 1,300 pilgrims died due to extreme heat.
This year, temperatures are expected to exceed 40°C, with over 1.4 million pilgrims arriving in Mecca for the multi-day religious journey.
Saudi Deputy Minister for Population Health Abdullah Asiri announced the deployment of 50,000 healthcare workers and the preparation of 700 hospital beds for severe heat-related illnesses.
To mitigate heat exposure, authorities have installed 71 emergency medical points, misting fans, and cooled walkways, including a new 4-kilometer pathway leading to Mount Arafat.
Pilgrims are advised to stay in shaded areas and avoid direct sunlight to prevent heatstroke.
The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam, requiring all Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey at least once in their lifetime.
Hajj traces its origins to Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who, according to Islamic tradition, was commanded by Allah to leave his wife Hajar and son Ismail in the barren valley of Mecca.
Hajar’s desperate search for water led to the discovery of the Zamzam Well, a sacred site visited by pilgrims today.
The pilgrimage also commemorates Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son, a test of faith that is honored during Eid al-Adha.
Over centuries, Hajj has evolved into a massive global event, drawing millions of worshippers annually to perform rituals such as circling the Kaaba, walking between Safa and Marwa, and praying on Mount Arafat.
Saudi Arabia has continuously expanded infrastructure and safety measures to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims, ensuring a safe and spiritually fulfilling experience.