Over 1 million Muslims were present in Mecca

During this pilgrimage, robe-clad worshippers walk around the Kaaba - a black stone cube structure, about 15 metres high, at the centre of Mecca's Grand Mosque.

Hajj is an annual pilgrimage that Muslims must undertake at least once in their lifetime, depending on their financial and physical ability. Hajj involves a series of rituals in Mecca and surrounding areas in western Saudi Arabia. It takes several days to complete the Hajj.

Last year's Hajj attracted more than 1.8 million pilgrims after Saudi Arabia lifted pandemic restrictions and abolished age limits, according to official figures.

Like in past years, the Hajj pilgrimage takes place during Saudi Arabia's hot summer, with average high temperatures forecast to reach 44 degrees Celsius.

Last year's pilgrimage recorded more than 10,000 cases of heat-related illnesses, of which 10 percent suffered from heatstroke, said Mohammed al-Abdulali, a spokesman for the Saudi Ministry of Health.

This year, authorities have taken measures to protect pilgrims’ health, including installing misting systems and insulation materials on the roads. On June 13, pilgrims received text messages warning that temperatures could reach 48 degrees Celsius, along with recommendations to drink water regularly, more than 2 liters a day, and to always carry an umbrella.