Saudi Arabia's National Centre for Meteorology has forecast a hotter-than-normal August, with stronger winds and blowing dust, prompting renewed heat-safety guidance for Umrah pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah. The post-Hajj weeks bring the smallest crowds of the year, but the summer heat makes preparation essential for anyone performing the rites now.
For pilgrims, the combination of high temperatures and occasional dust means the physical demands of Umrah rise sharply during the day. Planning around the heat can make the difference between a smooth pilgrimage and a difficult one.
Why the summer window carries extra risk
The current period, corresponding to Safar 1448, is the quietest stretch of the Umrah calendar. Reduced crowds shorten queues and ease movement in the mataf and the Sa'i area. That appeal, however, comes with a trade-off: daytime temperatures in Makkah and Madinah routinely climb into the mid-40s Celsius.
The meteorology centre's outlook for a warmer-than-usual August, along with stronger winds and dust, raises the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and respiratory irritation. Forecasters have framed this window as suitable mainly for heat-tolerant, healthy adults seeking value and quieter conditions, rather than for the frail or those with significant medical conditions.
Saudi authorities have paired the weather guidance with practical measures around the holy sites, including expanded shaded areas, cooling systems, water distribution and misting fans, to help pilgrims cope with the temperatures.
How to perform Umrah safely in the heat
Timing matters most. Where possible, perform tawaf and Sa'i during the cooler hours, after the Fajr prayer or later in the evening, rather than in the harsh midday sun. The marble around the Grand Mosque can become very hot, so pilgrims should be mindful of their feet and use shaded routes and indoor levels when available.
Hydration is essential. Drink water regularly, including Zamzam, and avoid waiting until thirst sets in. Pilgrims should recognise the early signs of heat stress, which include dizziness, headache, nausea and cramping, and rest immediately in a cool or shaded place if these appear.
Men in ihram cannot cover the head, so using an umbrella for shade is permitted and widely recommended during extreme heat. Women should choose light, breathable clothing. Both should protect their skin and eyes from dust on windy days.
Practical checklist for pilgrims
A few simple habits reduce risk considerably. Carry a personal water bottle and refill it often. Keep an umbrella for shade and, on dusty days, a mask to ease breathing. Wear comfortable footwear that is easy to remove and store while praying.
Pace the rites rather than rushing them, and build in rest breaks between tawaf and Sa'i if needed. Elderly pilgrims and those with heart, kidney or respiratory conditions should consult a doctor before travelling and consider performing the rites at the coolest times, or using permitted assistance such as wheelchairs and electric carts.
Finally, follow official announcements and on-site staff instructions. The authorities adjust crowd flow and open cooled areas in response to conditions, and heeding that guidance is the surest way to complete Umrah safely during a hot summer.