The annual Hajj pilgrimage officially began on Monday as pilgrims started arriving in Mina to perform the first rituals of the sacred journey. Thousands of worshippers departed from their residences in Makkah to observe the Day of Tarwiyah, which marks the beginning of Hajj activities.
Saudi authorities confirmed that all operational and transportation arrangements for this year’s Hajj had been completed before the movement of pilgrims began. Officials said extensive preparations were made to ensure the safe transfer of pilgrims to Mina, also known as the Tent City.
This year, more than 1.5 million international pilgrims have already arrived in Saudi Arabia for Hajj. They are being joined by hundreds of thousands of local pilgrims from across the Kingdom.
As pilgrims traveled toward Mina, many were seen reciting the talbiyah and offering prayers while following the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The atmosphere in Makkah and surrounding holy sites remained deeply spiritual despite the intense heat.
The Hajj pilgrimage this year is taking place under extremely hot weather conditions. Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Meteorology predicted temperatures between 42 and 47 degrees Celsius during the week of Hajj in Makkah.
Many pilgrims said the desert climate has been difficult, especially for visitors arriving from cooler countries. Imad Ahmed, a pilgrim from Britain, said he drinks plenty of water and mineral-rich beverages to stay hydrated throughout the journey.
Another pilgrim, Mohamed Nabil from Algeria, described the heat as exhausting. He said he regularly pours water on his face to remain cool while walking long distances around Makkah.
Saudi authorities have introduced several measures to reduce the effects of the heat during Hajj. Large cooling systems are operating in and around the Grand Mosque. Other facilities include mist sprayers, giant fans, and cooled flooring systems in crowded areas.
Trucks carrying cold drinking water are also being deployed continuously to assist pilgrims. Despite these efforts, many worshippers continue facing difficult weather conditions while performing outdoor rituals.
Ice cream stalls and shaded areas around the mosque have become crowded as pilgrims search for relief from the heat. Many people are also resting inside air-conditioned galleries before continuing their prayers and religious activities.
The most demanding stage of Hajj will take place at Mount Arafat, where pilgrims gather for prayers in open areas with limited shade. Health officials said more than 50,000 healthcare workers and 3,000 ambulances have been deployed to assist pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage.
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Saudi authorities have urged pilgrims to remain hydrated and follow safety guidelines as Hajj rituals continue in the coming days.
