Saudi Arabia turns to drones to shield pilgrims from extreme heat
Saudi Arabia is utilizing drones to assist in providing medical supplies to pilgrims during the hajj amidst extreme heat conditions. With temperatures soaring to 45 degrees Celsius, these drones help ensure that the 127 medical clinics across Mecca, Mina, and Arafat are well-stocked. This technological approach aims to enhance the efficiency of medical services and manage the large crowds effectively.
- ▪Drones are being used to supply medical clinics treating heat-stressed pilgrims during the hajj.
- ▪Temperatures in Mecca have reached 45 degrees Celsius this week.
- ▪The use of drones helps avoid congested roads filled with over 1.5 million pilgrims.
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Saudi Arabia turns to drones to shield pilgrims from extreme heatSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxA drone used to transport medical supplies performs a display flight in the Arafat area near Islam's holy city of Mecca, on May 23.PHOTO: AFPPublished May 26, 2026, 08:54 PMUpdated May 26, 2026, 08:54 PMMOUNT ARAFAT, Saudi Arabia – With temperatures hitting 45 deg C in Mecca this week, Saudi health workers have increasingly relied on drones to supply a vast array of medical clinics treating heat-stressed pilgrims during the hajj.The rituals at the hajj have been a constant for centuries.But technology is rapidly changing the experience for pilgrims and officials alike – with AI, UAVs and mobile apps providing crucial services, logistical support and helping manage the…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Straits Times — World.