Civil Defense spokesman Lt. Col. Ali Al-Muntashiri said 12 units rushed to put out the blaze and evacuated 250 occupants.

He added the majority of occupants were pilgrims of various nationalities including 17 Qur'an-memorization students. Al-Muntashiri said as the building was completely engulfed in smoke, the Civil Defense teams evacuated occupants to safety using emergency exits and other measures.

However, after exploring the building after the fire, the Pakistani pilgrim was found dead. It is believed the pilgrim might have died from suffocation.

Al-Muntashiri dismissed any foul play and said investigations were under way.