The deaths of 1,300 pilgrims during last year’s hajj in Saudi Arabia highlight the urgent need for better heat mitigation and crowd management, analysts say.

With Mecca’s temperatures reaching 51.8°C (125°F) during the pilgrimage, most fatalities were linked to heat, especially among pilgrims without official permits who lacked access to amenities like air-conditioned tents.

Diplomats confirmed the majority of deaths were heat-related, emphasizing the challenge as 2024 became the hottest year on record. Experts suggest Saudi authorities are likely focusing on reducing unpermitted entries this year, alongside exploring long-term solutions like wearable heat sensors.

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