MINA: Saudi authorities have intensified heat protection and healthcare measures for pilgrims ahead of the 2026 Hajj season, as temperatures in Makkah and surrounding holy sites are forecast to climb to 47 degrees Celsius, according to SPA reports. The Saudi Ministry of Health urged pilgrims to regularly use umbrellas as a key preventive measure against heat exhaustion, sunstroke and dehydration during movement between the holy sites.

Saudi Arabia’s Defence Ministry finalises a 2026 Hajj safety plan, deploying land, air, naval and medical forces to protect pilgrims in Mecca and Medina.

Health authorities say precautionary measures have been tightened after Ebola outbreak in Africa