Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Muslim pilgrims participating in the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca faced extreme heat with temperatures soaring up to 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit), leading to the death of hundreds and thousands being treated for heatstroke. Among the deceased are 165 Indonesians, with additional casualties reported from Jordan, Tunisia, and Iran. The high temperatures have posed a significant risk to the health and safety of pilgrims, with many suffering from heat-related illnesses.
According to the Iranian Red Crescent, 26 Iranians have been hospitalized due to heatstroke, with some having underlying health conditions exacerbating their condition. The death toll is expected to rise as official figures from Saudi Arabia and Egypt have yet to be released, and there are concerns about unregistered pilgrims facing similar dangers during the pilgrimage. As part of one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, over 1.8 million individuals are participating in this year’s Hajj, adding to the complexity of monitoring and ensuring the well-being of all attendees.
The harsh conditions have prompted Hajj officials to take precautionary measures, advising pilgrims to stay hydrated, carry umbrellas for shade, and avoid certain rituals during peak temperature hours. With the pilgrimage falling in June, one of the hottest months in the region, the extreme heat has presented a challenge for organizers and participants alike. The Saudi government has mobilized medical units and rapid response teams to address heatstroke cases, in addition to deploying health and first aid volunteers to provide assistance during the pilgrimage.
Performing Hajj is a fundamental pillar of Islam, requiring physically and financially able Muslims to make the journey to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. The pilgrimage entails various rituals symbolizing unity and equality before God, including the stoning of evil and the procession around the Kaaba building. Despite the challenging conditions, pilgrims continue to fulfill their religious duty with resilience and faith.