Thousands of worshippers from the United Arab Emirates have arrived in the holy city of Makkah to perform Hajj 2025, a spiritual journey that marks a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for many Muslims. Beginning Wednesday, June 4, this year’s pilgrimage unfolds under extreme heat conditions, with Saudi authorities forecasting temperatures above 40°C.
The UAE and Saudi authorities coordinate support to welcome pilgrims from across the Emirates, including families, the elderly, and first-time Hajis.
UAE’s official Hajj delegation offers healthcare and support
The UAE has deployed its official Hajj delegation to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its citizens during the pilgrimage. Key services include free medical check-ups, round-the-clock healthcare, and logistical assistance throughout the holy sites.
Designated teams from UAE health entities are stationed at accommodation centres and clinics across Makkah, Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. Special care is being provided for vulnerable groups including elderly pilgrims, widows, and those with chronic illnesses—many of whom were sponsored by government-backed humanitarian programmes.
To ensure a seamless experience, the delegation has issued multilingual guidance on hygiene, safety precautions, and heat management. Pilgrims were also prepared in advance through community outreach sessions and educational briefings.
Pilgrims speak of emotional moments and physical endurance
For Haya Qawas, a UAE resident, stepping into the view of the Holy Kaaba was a moment she described as “life-defining.” Tears flowed freely as she completed her first tawaf around the sacred structure. Her husband, Abdulrahim Shraim, who is performing Hajj for the first time, echoed her sentiments. “Despite the exhaustion, the moment I saw the Kaaba, everything felt light,” he said.
The couple, among the 1.8 million pilgrims undertaking Hajj this year, are navigating the intense physical and emotional demands of the pilgrimage. Yet, they say it is all worth it for the spiritual peace they have found.
Facing the heat: Safety measures for extreme temperatures
With the mercury rising beyond 40°C in Makkah, both UAE and Saudi authorities have implemented critical safety protocols to protect pilgrims during the five-day pilgrimage. Authorities have installed mist-spraying units, shaded walkways, hydration stations, and rest points across key sites to manage harsh conditions.
Authorities advise pilgrims to avoid direct sun during peak hours and stay indoors when possible. Many prefer to perform rituals such as visiting Masjid Al Haram early in the morning or late at night, when temperatures are slightly cooler.
For those staying in Mina during Layali al-Tashriq—the sacred days spent in tents performing prayers and reciting the Quran—lightweight cotton clothing and non-scented hygiene products are being widely used. The state of Ihram, required for Hajj, restricts the use of perfumes or scented products, making heat control more challenging.
A journey of companionship and unity
While many have travelled with family, the journey has also been an opportunity to build new bonds. Sarah Tiry, a stay-at-home mother from South Africa residing in the UAE, spoke of how she formed close friendships with fellow pilgrims. “You support each other in ways that feel timeless. Even in the midst of physical strain, there’s comfort in shared faith,” she said.
Sarah and her group made the night journey to Mina by bus, departing at 2:30am to avoid the midday heat. From there, they will travel to Arafat and Muzdalifah, key milestones of the pilgrimage. Despite minor inconveniences such as delayed bus routes due to security checks, Sarah described the experience as rewarding. “Every challenge on this journey is part of the blessing.”
Seamless coordination ensures smooth experience
Among the UAE pilgrims is Dubai resident Jaseem Khateebi, who is travelling with his wife and relatives. “The crowds are enormous, but everything is well-organised,” he noted. Khateebi and his group are currently staying in Aziziya, a neighbourhood near the holy sites, and are adjusting their schedule around the heat.
He commended the signage, frequent announcements, and personnel stationed along key routes for providing clear direction. “There’s a sense of order even in the middle of such massive movement. For elderly pilgrims in our group, the support makes all the difference,” he added.
UAE continues to empower access to Hajj
The UAE government, through organisations like the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation and the Abu Dhabi Rehabilitation Centre, continues to provide access to Hajj for those who might not otherwise be able to afford it. This includes widows, senior citizens, and individuals with limited financial means. These initiatives are part of the nation’s broader commitment to community service and spiritual development.
Healthcare professionals from the Emirates Health Services and Ministry of Health and Prevention station themselves throughout the pilgrimage sites, providing support beyond logistics. They are available to handle emergencies, chronic conditions, and routine medical needs.
A spiritual milestone for many
As Hajj 2025 progresses, UAE pilgrims continue their sacred rituals with resilience and hope. For many, this journey marks the fulfilment of a lifelong dream and a renewal of faith. Despite the physical hardships, the spiritual rewards are immeasurable.
Pilgrims will return home in the coming days with stories of patience, gratitude, and unity—proof that even under extreme conditions, the essence of Hajj remains unchanged: equality, devotion, and peace.
Read More:
- Eid al Adha 2025: Places where you can watch fireworks in Dubai – Social Kandura
- UAE Brings Back Midday Work Ban to Protect Labourers from Summer Heat – Social Kandura
Stay connected with Social Kandura for more updates on local news, cultural events, and all things happening in Dubai and the UAE.
