Heatwave victim: 8 Uzbeks die during Hajj pilgrimage

In Saudi Arabia, this year’s Hajj season has been recorded as one of the hottest and most challenging in history. With temperatures approaching 50 degrees Celsius, five days of worship, movement among millions of people, and physical exertion — all became a major test for pilgrims’ health. Sadly, under such conditions, 8 Uzbek citizens lost their lives.

According to the publication "Dunyo", in the 2025 Hajj season, more than 15,000 of our compatriots traveled to Saudi Arabia to visit the holy sites. Pilgrims began arriving on May 13, and the journey continued until May 30. The return trips took place between June 12 and June 29.

Why was this season so difficult? Firstly, Hajj rituals coincided with extremely hot weather. Secondly, many pilgrims were elderly or suffered from chronic illnesses. According to official reports, four of the deceased died due to extreme heat and their health conditions.

Another tragic aspect — four Uzbek citizens had entered Saudi Arabia illegally. It was reported that they came through unofficial or "unclear" channels. They did not receive medical assistance, and being outside the supervision of safety services became a fatal factor for them. As a result, they also joined the list of victims.

In addition, more than 40 citizens were found to be without documents or had lost their passports during the pilgrimage. They have contacted the Consulate General of Uzbekistan in Jeddah and are being issued temporary return certificates. The consulate continues to provide legal and practical assistance to those in need.

Throughout the pilgrimage, significant efforts were made to protect pilgrims and provide proper conditions. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev also had a phone conversation at the end of May with the Chairman of the Muslim Board of Uzbekistan — Mufti Sheikh Nuriddin Khaliqnazar — where he personally inquired about the organization of the Hajj, the pilgrims’ health, and mood. The Mufti emphasized that all necessary conditions had been created and that medical services were under constant supervision.

These events served as a life lesson not only for the Islamic world but also for society as a whole: any religious worship requires not only spiritual, but also physical and medical preparation. Scorching weather, crowded places, constant movement — all demand strength not only of the heart, but of the body as well.

Currently, the identities of the deceased citizens and the causes of their deaths are being thoroughly investigated. Who entered without documents, who did not receive medical help, who had life-threatening conditions — more detailed information will be provided after the investigation.

The Muslim Board of Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and diplomatic missions are closely monitoring the situation. All citizens in Saudi Arabia are being contacted and supported through direct communication channels.

What do experts say about preventing such tragedies? Firstly, citizens must prepare for Hajj not just financially, but with full consideration of their health. Those with chronic illnesses or the elderly must travel only after medical examination and approval. Secondly, under no circumstances should one attempt to go on Hajj through "cheap", "acquaintance-based", or illegal channels — this is not only unlawful but also life-threatening.

Currently, hundreds of people around the world are reportedly dying. For example, Saudi authorities have stated that over 1,300 pilgrims have died in total. Most of them perished due to heatstroke and exhaustion from walking in large crowds.

Therefore, for every person, Hajj is not only worship but a great responsibility. Preparing properly, traveling through official channels, and observing health and safety rules is essential.

We extend our deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. These people departed this life on the path of great worship. Our nation prays for them. The safe return of all pilgrims is a great blessing for our homeland.

Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!