Overview

• Over 1.4 million pilgrims are undertaking Hajj from June 4–8 as forecast temperatures reach 50°C and authorities report 44 heat stroke cases so far.
• Saudi Arabia has banned children under 12 and suspended short-term visas for 14 countries to curb unauthorized participation.
• Authorities are using drones with thermal imaging, AI crowd monitoring, smart wearable wristbands and service robots to track health and enforce permit checks.
• Expanded shade structures, reflective cooling paths and over 400 air-conditioned units and misting stations aim to shield pilgrims from extreme heat.
• Critics warn that mandatory tracking apps and smart wearables pose risks to pilgrim privacy given Saudi Arabia’s limited data protections.