Hajj 2025 Expected to Break Records as One of the Hottest

Samira Yusuf

May 8, 2025

Temperatures surpassing 50°C (Real-Feel) to become one of the hottest.

Hajj 2025 is expected to take place under extreme summer heat, with forecasters warning of temperatures exceeding 50°C in heat index values.

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Health authorities and organizers have urged pilgrims to prepare for what may be one of the most physically demanding pilgrimages in years due to the oppressive weather.

Temperature Forecast for Major Hajj Sites

Location Date Range (2025) Daytime High Nighttime Low Real Feel (Heat Index)

Location	Date
Makkah	June 3, 6–9	41–42°C	47–50°C
Mina	June 4, 6–9	41–42°C	47–50°C
Arafat	June 5	43°C	48–51°C
Muzdalifa	Night of June 5	41.8	46–49°C

The ritual at Arafat, considered the pinnacle of the Hajj journey, will take place on June 5 under what are forecast to be the most intense conditions.

Pilgrims are expected to be outdoors for hours, particularly during the peak afternoon heat.

Why This Year’s Hajj Will Be Especially Hot?

Since the Islamic calendar follows lunar cycles, the dates of Hajj shift each year, gradually moving into the peak summer period in Saudi Arabia.

Experts warn that this year, the overlap with early June heat could pose serious health risks, especially to elderly pilgrims and those with underlying conditions.

To mitigate the dangers posed by extreme temperatures:

Mobile cooling units and mist fans will be deployed across Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
First aid stations and emergency tents will be increased in number.
Thousands of medical personnel and volunteers will be mobilized to assist with heat-related issues.

Official Recommendations for Pilgrims

Pilgrims are advised to take these precautionary steps:

Drink plenty of water – Begin hydration early and continue throughout the day.
Use umbrellas or hats – Protect yourself from direct sun exposure.
Avoid walking during peak heat hours – Especially midday.
Rest in shaded or air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.
Wear light and loose ihram.
Recognize heat stress symptoms – Watch for headaches, nausea, dizziness, or confusion.
Look out for vulnerable pilgrims – Offer help to elderly or medically fragile individuals.

Historically, extreme heat has been a major risk factor during past pilgrimages. Hajj events in the 1980s and 2015 saw hundreds of deaths due to a combination of high temperatures, overcrowding, and inadequate preparation.