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Prospective pilgrims planning for Hajj in 2025 are being urged to prepare for exceptionally hot conditions, as Saudi Arabia's National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has issued a significant weather advisory forecasting temperatures that could climb as high as 47^{\circ}\text{C} (116.6^{\circ}\text{F}) in the holy sites, Daily Dazzling Dawn understands.
The NCM's detailed forecast indicates a period of hot to extremely hot weather. Daytime temperatures are anticipated to fluctuate between a scorching 40^{\circ}\text{C} and 47^{\circ}\text{C}, while even nighttime relief will be limited, with lows expected to range from 27^{\circ}\text{C} to 32^{\circ}\text{C}. Humidity levels are also predicted to be a factor, varying between 15% and 60%, potentially adding to the discomfort.
Dr. Ayman Ghulam, CEO of the NCM, elaborated on the atmospheric conditions, noting that northerly to northwesterly winds are expected. These winds, blowing at speeds of 25 to 35 km/h, could stir up dust, leading to reduced visibility, particularly in open areas and along major highways – a critical consideration for pilgrims travelling between sites.
Further complicating the weather outlook, Dr. Ghulam warned of the possibility of thunderstorms developing over the highlands of Taif. These weather systems have the potential to extend towards the holy sites, particularly between the 8th and 13th of Dhu Al Hijjah (the key days of Hajj). Such storms may be accompanied by strong downdrafts, which could exacerbate dusty conditions and pose additional challenges for those performing the pilgrimage.
In response to these severe forecasts, Saudi authorities are strongly advising all pilgrims to take comprehensive precautions. Key recommendations include staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, using umbrellas for shade against the intense sun, and diligently following official weather updates and guidance issued throughout the Hajj period.
Recognizing the strain such conditions can impose, the Kingdom is actively implementing measures to enhance pilgrim well-being. A notable development is the recent inauguration of a cooled pedestrian walkway in Mecca, part of the broader "Cooled Roads Initiative." This project aims to mitigate the urban heat island effect by lowering surface temperatures, thereby improving comfort and accessibility for the millions of pilgrims. These "white roads" are specially coated to reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption.
Further significant measures have been announced by Sheikh Abdulrahman Al Sudais, President of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina. Directives have been issued to shorten Friday sermons and prayers at the Two Holy Mosques during the 2025 Hajj season. This decision is specifically aimed at alleviating the physical strain on worshippers, with particular consideration for the elderly and those in densely populated areas such as the Mataf (the circumambulation area around the Holy Kaaba), upper floors, and open courtyards. The interval between the call to prayer (Adhan) and the commencement of the sermon (Khutbah) will also be reduced to minimize exposure to peak heat.
Sheikh Al Sudais emphasized that these adjustments are rooted in the presidency's commitment to ensuring a safe, comfortable, and spiritually enriching environment, aligning with the leadership's directives on pilgrim welfare. He highlighted that these measures are consistent with Islamic principles that prioritize the alleviation of hardship, especially under challenging circumstances like extreme weather, and acknowledge the diverse needs of pilgrims arriving from across the globe.
In his address, Sheikh Al Sudais also called upon all visitors and pilgrims to remain steadfast in fulfilling their religious duties, including prayer, Zakat (charity), fasting, and the core rites of Hajj. He urged Muslims to embody compassion, kindness, and generosity, particularly during this sacred period, reflecting the noble character and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). He concluded by encouraging pilgrims to embrace the spiritual opportunities presented by Hajj, seeking benefits for both their worldly lives and the hereafter.
