More than 1.6 million Muslims have gathered in Saudi Arabia for the 2026 Hajj, the annual pilgrimage that draws believers from around the world. Temperatures in Makkah are expected to reach 47 degrees Celsius, and officials have warned pilgrims about the dangers of heat exhaustion and dehydration. Umbrellas, which can lower the temperature around a person by up to 10 degrees, have become essential. Volunteers hand out water bottles and run cooling fans throughout the crowds.
However, this year's Hajj has introduced significant changes. Saudi authorities have deployed drones, thermal cameras, and facial-recognition technology across holy sites. Two AI systems called Baseer and Sawaher monitor crowd density and movement in real time, helping prevent dangerous congestion. Facial recognition is used to verify permits and identify individuals at entry points.
These measures were implemented following the 2024 Hajj tragedy, when at least 1,301 pilgrims died in extreme heat. About 83 percent of those who died were unregistered pilgrims without official permits. These people had no access to air-conditioned facilities or official water stations, leaving them extremely vulnerable. An estimated 400,000 unregistered pilgrims participated that year.
Saudi Arabia limits pilgrim numbers through a permit system. Many people attempt the journey without permits to avoid high costs. The new surveillance system aims to enforce permit requirements and prevent another tragedy. For Saudi Arabia, managing the Hajj safely is a major source of national prestige and part of the kingdom's broader modernization efforts.