Hajj Amid Extreme Weather as Temperatures Reach 50°C

Muslim pilgrims use umbrellas to shield themselves from the scorching sun after Dhuhr prayers outside Nimrah Mosque in the Arafat Plain during the annual Hajj pilgrimage near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, on Tuesday, 26 May 2026. Saudi Arabia is grappling with an extreme heatwave ahead of Eid al-Adha and the peak of this year’s Hajj season. Local weather authorities have warned that temperatures in certain regions could reach 50°C, raising concerns over the safety of millions of residents and pilgrims enduring the harsh conditions. The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) issued a warning on Tuesday that temperatures in the Eastern Province could hit 50°C as the heatwave persists. NCM spokesperson Hussein Al Qahtani stated that the hot weather is expected to last until Friday, with temperatures in some administrative areas of the Eastern Province forecast between 47°C and 50°C. The Saudi government has repeatedly urged residents and pilgrims to avoid prolonged sun exposure and be vigilant about the risks of heatstroke and dehydration due to the extreme temperatures. Al Qahtani also advised the public to follow official guidelines and monitor weather updates throughout the Eid al-Adha holiday period.