Temperatures at some mountainous Holy sites during the Hajj are expected to rise up to 72 degrees, warns Saudi Authorities.
The ministry cautioned pilgrims to take precautionary measures and avoid direct exposure to sunlight. Pilgrims are also advised to use umbrellas and drink water as much as possible. The ministry noted that this year’s Hajj is difficult for pilgrims in terms of extraordinarily high temperatures.
“This year’s Hajj season in Makkah presents unique challenges due to exceptionally high temperatures,” remarked a spokesperson from the Ministry of Health. “Our priority is the safety and well-being of all pilgrims, and we urge them to follow our recommendations closely to mitigate any health risks.”
Pilgrims are also advised to avoid outdoor activities from 11 AM to 3 PM. The ministry has taken several measures to facilitate the pilgrims under the harsh weather and circumstances. Even before the start of the Hajj, authorities have been warning the pilgrims of high temperatures this year. Temperatures might exceed 45 degrees celsius.
Pilgrims are also advised to stay updated regarding weather alerts and advisories for a safe and fulfilling experience.
Saudi Arabia has also launched the world’s first self-driving flying taxi. The taxi will facilitate the transport of pilgrims between holy sites, apart from providing logistics services.
Read more: Saudi Arabia launches world’s first flying taxi for Hajj operations
Minister of Transport and Logistics and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority of Aviation, Engineer Saleh Al Jasser inaugurated the self-driving flying taxi at the Holy Sites. The electric car taxi service, one of its kind, will be used experimentally to transport pilgrims between Arafat, Mina, and Muzdalifah in this year’s annual pilgrimage.
These flying taxis will be used mainly for emergency services, as well as for the transportation of medical and food supplies meant for the Hajj pilgrims at the Holy Sites.
“Today we are witnessing the activation of one of the most important initiatives of the roadmap to enable advanced air mobility, as the use of its modes, including air taxi, is characterized by reducing the travel time of passengers within crowded areas, especially for emergency cases,” he said.