RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health has launched a comprehensive health awareness kit, including a version in Urdu, to promote the well-being of millions of Hajj pilgrims preparing for this year’s pilgrimage.
The kit, announced on the ministry’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, is available in eight languages and offers essential guidance on maintaining health during Hajj, which remains one of the five fundamental pillars of Islam. Pakistan, with one of the largest Hajj quotas, stands to benefit significantly from the Urdu version.
The kit includes vital information on preventing heat-related illnesses, managing chronic conditions in extreme weather, and details on mandatory vaccinations such as meningitis, Covid-19, polio, and yellow fever. It also informs pilgrims about access to free healthcare services during Hajj.
Supporting materials include short educational videos, social media content, and printable posters, designed to help pilgrims stay informed and healthy throughout the demanding journey.
In January, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed an agreement allowing 179,210 Pakistani pilgrims to perform Hajj this year. As part of this, the Pakistan Hajj Mission welcomed 38,229 pilgrims in Madina and Makkah by Saturday since the start of pre-Hajj flights on April 29.
The pilgrimage has faced challenges, including a high number of fatalities in recent years. Last year, 1,301 deaths were reported during Hajj, with many attributed to pilgrims walking long distances under the harsh sun without sufficient shelter. Among them, at least 35 Pakistanis lost their lives.
To improve safety, Saudi Arabia introduced air-conditioned tents, family-friendly accommodations, enhanced luggage systems, and improved transportation this year.
Around 400 medical and paramedical staff will be deployed across dedicated healthcare centers, including one fully equipped hospital and nine dispensaries in Makkah, plus one hospital and two dispensaries in Madinah, ensuring timely medical assistance for pilgrims.
This health awareness initiative is part of ongoing efforts by Saudi Arabia to safeguard the welfare of pilgrims and ensure a safe and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience.
