Pilgrims Beat the Heat with Innovative Cooling Gadgets in Arafat
Despite Saudi Arabia’s diligent efforts to combat the scorching heat at the holy sites, pilgrims have proven to be resourceful in their pursuit of comfort.
In addition to the Kingdom’s cooling measures, such as extensive cooling systems, pilgrims have turned to rechargeable and battery-powered neck and handheld fans to combat the challenging summer conditions.
A sprinkler system comprising more than 8,000 water posts has been installed at the holy sites to mitigate the high temperatures. (SPA)
These portable fans offer much-needed relief by providing personal cooling in crowded areas where air circulation may be limited. They enable pilgrims to stay comfortable and focused on their religious duties without being overly affected by the extreme temperatures, thus enhancing their overall pilgrimage experience.
According to online retail websites, hands-free fans range from $4 to $8, neck fans from $32 to $60, and portable waist clip fans from $30 to over $110.
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Managed by the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites, the sprinkler system at the holy sites disperses 230,000 cubic meters of water through a pipe network spanning over 190,000 meters.
In line with the Health Ministry’s guidelines, many pilgrims are also seen using small water sprinklers to cool themselves amidst the high temperatures.
A sprinkler system comprising more than 8,000 water posts has been installed at the holy sites to mitigate the high temperatures. (SPA)
A report by the National Center for Meteorology revealed that temperatures in Arafat reached 46°C on Saturday. Anticipating such conditions, a large water sprinkler system was put in place to reduce heat and refresh the air for pilgrims.
Saleh Al-Sufiyani, a Saudi pilgrim from Taif, shared that he bought a cooling device for SR150 (around $40) to cope with the weather in Makkah.
Pilgrims are using rechargeable and battery-powered neck and handheld fans in their determination to offset the challenging conditions brought by the summer. (SPA)
He explained: “The device directs airflow to my neck and face, key areas for cooling the body. It helps me feel more comfortable by reducing the heat sensation.”
Maryam Jadallah, an Egyptian pilgrim, mentioned that she purchased her portable battery-powered fan in Jeddah after learning about the high temperatures in Makkah.
Water is sprayed on Muslim pilgrims at the rocky hill known as the Mountain of Mercy, on the Plain of Arafat, during the annual Hajj pilgrimage, near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabi, Saturday, June 15, 2024. (AP)
She added: “The fan operates quietly, allowing me to hear everything around me without interrupting my prayers.”
She emphasized that cooling the body in hot weather can help prevent heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
Volunteers spray water on Muslim pilgrims during the annual Hajj pilgrimage. (AN photo by Huda Bashattah)
Despite having her fan, she often kept it off as fans and water sprinklers were readily available to help pilgrims stay cool.
According to Kidana Development Company, a significant sprinkler system with over 8,000 water posts has been set up at the holy sites to counteract the high temperatures.
Despite Saudi Arabia’s diligent efforts to mitigate the sweltering heat in the holy sites, pilgrims remained inventive in their quest for comfort. (AN photo by Huda Bashattah)
Operated by the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites, the system disperses 230,000 cubic meters of water through a pipe network spanning over 190,000 meters. It runs for 15 hours daily over a 13-day period.
A recent study by King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre showed a significant decrease in heat-related deaths and strokes during Hajj, thanks to the Kingdom’s interventions, reducing them by 47.6% and 74.6% respectively over 40 years.