The Red Crescent rescues an Indonesian patient at the Prophet's Mosque in record time
In a humanitarian scene that reflects the high readiness and efficiency of the health system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Red Crescent teams wrote a new success story in the vicinity of the Prophet’s Mosque, after they were able, thanks to God, to save the life of a patient of Indonesian nationality who suffered a sudden cardiac and respiratory arrest.
Rapid Response Details
The Director General of the Saudi Red Crescent Authority branch in Madinah, Dr. Ahmed bin Ali Al-Zahrani, explained that the operations room (Medical Relocation Center) received an emergency report on Monday evening, March 2, 2026, specifically at 7:15 PM. The report stated that there was a critical fainting incident in the courtyards of the Prophet's Mosque after Maghrib prayer, which necessitated an immediate response from the field teams.
Al-Zahrani revealed a new record in response speed, with ambulance teams stationed at points within the Haram area reaching the patient's location in just 2 minutes and 56 seconds. Upon initial on-site examination, it was determined that the patient was suffering from complete cardiac and respiratory arrest, a critical medical condition requiring immediate intervention within seconds to ensure survival.
Applying advanced medical protocols
The paramedics handled the situation with utmost professionalism, implementing internationally recognized medical protocols for cardiac arrest. They immediately began cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and used automated external defibrillators (AEDs), supported by an additional team to ensure smooth operations amidst the large crowd of worshippers. Thanks be to God, these efforts were successful; the patient responded to resuscitation and regained a pulse. He was then urgently transferred, under intensive medical care, to Al-Salam Hospital for further treatment.
Healthcare for pilgrims
This incident underscores the paramount importance the Saudi Arabian government places on the safety and health of pilgrims visiting the Two Holy Mosques. Emergency medical services at the Prophet's Mosque and the Grand Mosque are an integral part of a comprehensive system designed to provide a safe environment for pilgrims and visitors. The Saudi Red Crescent Authority continuously develops its logistical and human resources capabilities and strategically deploys ambulance stations throughout the courtyards and walkways to ensure the fastest possible response to those in need, as clearly demonstrated in the case of the Indonesian patient.
Preparedness and its human impact
Dr. Al-Zahrani concluded his statement by emphasizing that the utmost readiness and continuous training of paramedics are the cornerstones of this success. Such situations not only reflect medical competence but also carry a noble humanitarian message, affirming that the Kingdom dedicates all its resources to serving pilgrims from all corners of the earth. This achievement is tangible proof of the success of the Authority's operational plans during peak seasons and times, thus enhancing the sense of security among visitors and worshippers in the city of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
