Pakistan, June 2 -- MAKKAH - More than 1.3 million Muslim pilgrims have arrived in Makkah ahead of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, braving extreme desert heat as Saudi authorities intensify efforts to ensure a safe and orderly experience. The pilgrimage officially begins on Wednesday, with temperatures expected to soar beyond 40degC (104degF) this week.
In an effort to avoid a recurrence of last year’s disaster when more than 1,300 pilgrims—many not officially registered—perished due to a heatwave, Saudi Arabia has marshaled 250,000 personnel from 40 different organizations. Authorities have enlarged shaded areas by an additional 50,000 square meters, installed over 400 air-cooling devices, and augmented the number of medical professionals on call throughout the sacred city.
The Hajj, which stands as one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is an obligatory spiritual obligation for Muslims capable of performing it both physically and economically. Even though they faced high temperatures and stringent safety protocols, participants felt immense happiness and thankfulness for taking part in this holy rite. Abdul Majid Ati, a pilgrim hailing from the Philippines, shared his thoughts: “Truly, this is a gift bestowed upon us by Allah.”
To control the flow of visitors, Saudi authorities have launched a large-scale crackdown on unregistered pilgrims, using drones, AI surveillance, and text alerts. Entry without a valid Hajj permit can result in deportation, heavy fines, or even a 10-year ban from the kingdom.
For many pilgrims, including 52-year-old Mariama from Senegal, Hajj marks the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. "I was dreaming about it, thinking about it every time to come here," she said. Saudi Arabia earns billions annually from Hajj and Umrah, while also reinforcing its religious and political stature as Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.
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