Saudi authorities reported that over 1.3 million pilgrims had arrived in the Kingdom by Friday, ahead of the Hajj rituals which span four days.

This year, more than 40 government agencies and 250,000 personnel have been mobilized to ensure the smooth operation of the pilgrimage. Preparations have been intensified to address extreme heat risks, following a deadly heatwave in 2024 that claimed the lives of hundreds of pilgrims.

Saudi Minister of Hajj, Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, told the Saudi Press Agency last week that shaded areas have been expanded by around 50,000 square meters. In addition, thousands of medical workers have been placed on high alert, and over 400 cooling units have been deployed throughout the pilgrimage period.