Saudi Arabia is expected to experience above-average temperatures across most of the Kingdom during August, the National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) has forecast, signalling a hot end to the summer for the hundreds of thousands of pilgrims performing Umrah in Makkah and visiting the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah.

What the forecast says

NCM spokesperson Hussain Al Qahtani said climate projections indicate temperatures will remain above seasonal averages across much of the country as typical summer conditions continue. Rainfall is expected to be below normal in Jazan and Al Baha, as well as parts of Tabuk, Madinah, Makkah, Asir, Najran and the Eastern Province.

The centre also expects wind speeds to exceed normal levels in most regions, raising the likelihood of blowing dust and sand in exposed areas. Al Qahtani urged residents and visitors to monitor official forecasts and warnings and to follow safety guidance, particularly as higher temperatures and stronger winds combine through the month.

For pilgrims, the practical implication is straightforward. Daytime conditions in Makkah routinely climb beyond 40C at this time of year, and the open courtyards around the Grand Mosque offer little natural shade during peak hours.

Umrah numbers have run high this season. Saudi Arabia has welcomed more than 1.27 million international pilgrims since the season opened, a rise of 22.5 per cent on the same period last year, meaning the courtyards and walkways around the Grand Mosque remain busy even in the summer heat. Larger crowds in high temperatures make careful planning around the hottest hours all the more important.

How the holy sites manage the heat

Authorities operate extensive cooling measures at the Grand Mosque. One of the world's most powerful air-conditioning systems cools the interior and courtyards, supported by large fans, mist sprayers and cooled flooring in parts of the mataf area where pilgrims perform tawaf. Teams distribute chilled Zamzam and bottled water, and misting and cooling points are positioned around the mosque precinct.

The Prophet's Mosque in Madinah operates similar support, with field teams providing water, shaded areas and assistance for elderly visitors and people with disabilities. Despite this infrastructure, the responsibility for avoiding heat illness still rests heavily on individual pilgrims, who often spend long periods outdoors between prayers and rites.

Recognising heat illness

Heat exhaustion can develop quickly. Warning signs include heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps and unusual fatigue. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and may involve confusion, a rapid pulse, hot and dry skin, and loss of consciousness. Anyone showing these signs should be moved to a cool, shaded area immediately and given water, and medical help should be sought without delay.

Older pilgrims, those with chronic conditions such as heart disease or diabetes, and anyone fasting voluntarily are at greater risk and should take extra care during the hottest hours.

Practical tips for staying safe

  • Shift your schedule. Where possible, perform tawaf, sai and outdoor movement during the cooler hours after Fajr or late in the evening rather than at midday.
  • Hydrate constantly. Drink water regularly throughout the day, not only when thirsty, and make use of the free Zamzam and water points.
  • Use an umbrella. A light umbrella provides portable shade and is widely used by pilgrims in the courtyards.
  • Protect your feet. Marble surfaces heat up rapidly; keep to shaded walkways and use footwear up to permitted areas.
  • Dress wisely. Choose light, breathable clothing, and women should favour loose, airy fabrics that still meet requirements of modesty.
  • Rest and pace yourself. Build breaks into your day and avoid attempting multiple strenuous rites back to back in the heat.
  • Mind the dust. With stronger winds forecast, those with respiratory conditions should carry a mask and monitor air-quality warnings.

With a hotter-than-usual month ahead, planning around the heat is the single most effective step a pilgrim can take. The Kingdom's cooling systems ease the strain, but sensible timing, steady hydration and awareness of the warning signs remain the best protection against heat illness during the Umrah journey.