As hundreds of thousands of pilgrims descend upon Makkah for the 2026 Hajj season, Saudi weather authorities have issued a crucial forecast warning of intense heat. With rituals set to commence on May 25, the faithful are being urged to prepare for a physically demanding journey, as the Gulf region enters its peak summer period. Saudi officials report that over 1.5 million international pilgrims have already arrived in the Kingdom, reflecting a significant increase in attendance despite regional geopolitical tensions.

The Saudi National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has outlined a challenging climate outlook, with temperatures expected to climb as high as 47°C during the early stages of the pilgrimage. From May 18 to May 25, travelers should anticipate hot, dusty conditions characterized by active winds and low humidity. As the season progresses into the Day of Arafah and beyond, heat levels are expected to remain high, between 42°C and 44°C, with the potential for occasional dust storms and localized thunderclouds forming near the highlands of Taif that could impact the holy sites.