At least 13 Iranian nationals have died while performing the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia amid rising temperatures in the holy cities. According to the Iranian state media, the health and treatment operations unit of the Iranian Red Crescent Society reported that “As of Friday, June 6, the total number of Iranian pilgrims who have passed away during Hajj 2025 has reached 13”. The statement cautioned pilgrims to avoid direct exposure to the sun and drink plenty of water to reduce the risk of heatstroke.
The Iranian Red Crescent Society attributed the deaths to the hot weather, stating that “In recent days, temperatures in the holy cities of Saudi Arabia have risen to 47°C, which can lead to severe heatstroke among pilgrims”. A total of 86,700 Iranians went to Saudi Arabia this year for the pilgrimage. Heat stress occurs when the body’s natural cooling systems are overwhelmed, causing symptoms ranging from dizziness and headaches to organ failure and death.
This year’s fatalities follow last year’s devastating toll, where over 1,300 people, including 22 Iranians, died at the hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia when temperatures hit 51.8°C (125 degrees Fahrenheit). The World Health Organisation estimates that heat kills at least half a million people every year, warning that the real figure could be up to 30 times higher. The Iranian Red Crescent Society advised pilgrims to stay hydrated and take precautions to reduce the risk of heatstroke.
The Hajj pilgrimage poses significant health risks due to extreme heat. Temperatures in Saudi Arabia’s holy cities have risen to 51.8°C, leading to severe heatstroke among pilgrims. Last year, over 1,300 people died during the pilgrimage, with many attributed to heat-related illnesses. The Saudi government has implemented heat mitigation measures, including climate-controlled areas, distributing water, and providing advice to pilgrims on protecting themselves from the sun.
The extreme heat has been particularly challenging for elderly pilgrims, who make up a significant portion of the participants. Scientists are increasingly worried about the death toll caused by humid heatwaves and how it will escalate in the near term. Research shows that heat tolerance limits for older adults were breached on all six days of the Hajj last year, including four prolonged periods of more than six hours.
In 2024, the death toll rose to over 900, including 68 Indians, due to extreme heat conditions. The fatalities occurred as temperatures soared to 51.8 degrees Celsius, exacerbating the challenges faced by pilgrims during this significant Islamic event. Egyptians were among the hardest hit, with over 600 deaths reported.
The Saudi Health Minister announced that 83% of the deceased were unauthorized pilgrims who trekked long distances in severe heat. This highlights the need for precautionary measures and swift medical response to mitigate the risks associated with the pilgrimage. The official death toll from this year’s Hajj pilgrimage has not been specified yet, but last year’s tragic events serve as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing pilgrim safety.