In 2024, the hajj in Saudi Arabia witnessed a tragic loss of 1,300 pilgrims, primarily attributed to extreme heat, with temperatures soaring to a staggering 51.8 degrees Celsius (125 degrees Fahrenheit).

The hajj, a pivotal event in Islam, attracted 1.8 million participants last year, yet a concerning 83% of the fatalities were among those without official permits, who lacked access to essential heat mitigation facilities.

The hajj has a history of disasters, including a 2015 stampede that resulted in up to 2,300 fatalities, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with this significant religious event.

This alarming situation was exacerbated by the fact that 2024 was recorded as the hottest year ever, according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service, leading to an increase in heat-related fatalities during the pilgrimage.

In response to last year's tragedy, Saudi authorities are expected to implement improved crowd management strategies and reduce the number of illegal pilgrims to avert a similar disaster.

Additionally, volunteers are actively providing water, umbrellas, and guidance to pilgrims to combat heat-related illnesses, while mobile cooling units are recommended to bolster safety during the hajj.

Despite the challenges in managing access to Mecca, experts like Umer Karim stress the necessity for adequate cooling and emergency health facilities for both registered and irregular pilgrims.

The allocation of hajj permits operates on a quota system, but the introduction of a general tourism visa in 2019 has facilitated unauthorized access for many pilgrims.

Saudi officials have previously initiated various heat-mitigation measures, including the establishment of air-conditioned spaces near the Kaaba and climate-controlled pathways.

Experts predict that the upcoming 2025 hajj will feature enhanced heat mitigation infrastructure and stricter capacity controls to address the anticipated high temperatures and influx of unauthorized pilgrims.

A study warns that due to climate change, heat stress for pilgrims may reach dangerous levels between 2047-2052 and 2079-2086, underscoring the urgent need for effective cooling measures.

Elgendy pointed out that last year's deaths were due to a combination of extreme environmental conditions, including maximum sun exposure during rituals, rather than solely the presence of unregistered pilgrims.