Saudi Arabia has significantly enhanced heat-mitigation measures for the 2026 Hajj, with the completion of the second phase of a major shading and cooling project around
The project, executed by Kidana Development Company the executive arm of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites is designed to improve comfort and safety for millions of pilgrims, particularly during the intense heat of the Day of Arafah.
Expanded Cooling Capacity
The newly completed second phase introduces 18 modern shade canopies equipped with 36 misting fans, alongside seven advanced air-cooling units and 107 misting fan columns. These additions build on the initial phase delivered in 2025.
With both phases now operational, the المشروع spans more than 272,000 square metres. Officials say the expansion has increased the number of pilgrims who can benefit from shaded and cooled areas by five times compared to last year.
Foundation Laid in Phase One
The first phase of the project established the initial infrastructure, featuring three canopies fitted with six misting fans and over 165 misting fan columns distributed across the area surrounding Mount Mercy.
Integrated System for Pilgrim Comfort
Together, the two phases form a unified cooling network. While the first phase provided baseline coverage, the second phase significantly broadened both the physical footprint and service capacity of the system.
The enhanced facilities are aimed at reducing heat stress during the Day of Arafah the most critical stage of the Hajj pilgrimage when large crowds gather in the open plains of Arafat under extreme temperatures.
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