Saudi says 1,301 deaths occurred during hajj, mostly unregistered pilgrims

Saudi Arabia said on Sunday that over 1,300 fatalities occurred during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage, largely attributed to heat stress and unauthorised trips, accounting for more than 80 per cent of the deaths.

In its first official figures released, the Saudi government reported, “The health system addressed numerous cases of heat stress this year, with some individuals still under care. Regrettably, the number of deaths reached 1,301.”

The Saudi government’s statement pointed out that 83 per cent of the deceased were pilgrims, who undertook the journey without proper authorisation, enduring long walks under direct sunlight without sufficient shelter or comfort.