The Saudi Red Crescent Authority unveiled its strategic and operational plan for the 1447 AH Hajj season during its active participation in the Health and Security in Hajj Forum held in Jeddah. The Authority announced the deployment of a state-of-the-art ambulance system aimed at providing the best possible emergency medical services to pilgrims. The plan includes the establishment of 71 strategically located ambulance launch points throughout the holy sites, in addition to bolstering the field fleet with more than 200 modern ambulances equipped with the latest technologies.
Historical context and ongoing efforts to serve the guests of God
Historically, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has placed great importance on serving pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah, a commitment clearly embodied in the "Guests of God Service Program," one of the key programs of Saudi Vision 2030. The Saudi Red Crescent Authority is a cornerstone of this effort, having accumulated decades of experience in crowd management and providing emergency medical care in densely populated environments. This ongoing development reflects the wise leadership's commitment to harnessing all available human, material, and technological resources to ensure the safety of pilgrims from their arrival until their safe return home.
Modern technologies and smart solutions to support Hajj ambulance services
Specialist Abdulrahman Al Thabit explained that the authority did not simply increase the number of personnel, but also focused on quality and efficiency. Ambulance teams were equipped with mobile first aid kits and dedicated transportation for foot and motorcycle teams to facilitate rapid response in heavily congested areas. Among the most prominent technologies used are advanced devices for performing automated chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), which enhances the effectiveness of field resuscitation. Smart devices were also provided to monitor vital signs and link them directly to medical guidance via the "Electronic Paramedic" system, enabling the real-time transmission of medical readings and extremely rapid, life-saving decisions.
The local and international impact of the Saudi ambulance system
Domestically, these massive preparations contribute to enhancing health security and reducing mortality and medical complications among pilgrims. Regionally and internationally, the Kingdom's success in managing the healthcare of millions of pilgrims simultaneously in a specific location represents a global model to be emulated in "mass gathering medicine." This excellence sends a reassuring message to the entire Islamic world and affirms Saudi Arabia's ability to handle any health emergency with high efficiency and competence.
Sustaining excellence in health and security services
The forum also featured a prominent participation by the President of the Saudi Red Crescent Authority, Dr. Jalal Al-Owaisi, in a panel discussion entitled “Sustaining Excellence in Health and Security Services during Hajj.” The session focused on the importance of integration between security and health authorities to develop sustainable operational systems. This participation highlights the significant technological and operational advancements within the Kingdom’s ambulance system, aligning with the highest international standards to serve pilgrims and provide them with a safe and healthy environment.
