Hajj pilgrims advised to limit exposure to midday sun
MAKKAH: The Ministry of Health has advised pilgrims to avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. — when temperatures at the holy sites are at their highest — to help avoid heat exhaustion and sunstroke.
The importance of following preventive measures such as using umbrellas, drinking plenty of water and complying with instructions from the authorities has also been emphasized.
The guidelines have been issued to protect pilgrims and ensure their safety during Hajj, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
So far, the ministry has reported a 90 percent reduction in the number of cases of heat exhaustion from last season.
The improvement aligns with the goals of the Health Sector Transformation Program and the Pilgrim Experience Program, both part of Vision 2030, which aim to ensure a safer Hajj experience.
The Ministry of Health said the decrease was a result of stronger preventive measures, expanded awareness campaigns and effective coordination across relevant agencies.
These actions have included the launch of an awareness kit in eight languages to help prevent heat-related illnesses during Hajj.
The kit includes guidelines, videos, social media posts and printable materials advising pilgrims to stay hydrated and use umbrellas to avoid direct sun exposure.
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