The World Health Organization praises the success of a safe and healthy Hajj season in Saudi Arabia
High international praise for the Kingdom's efforts in Hajj
In a new international testament reflecting the scale of the efforts undertaken, the Director-General of the World Health Organization, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, congratulated the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the remarkable success achieved in organizing a safe and healthy Hajj season this year. Dr. Tedros expressed his deep appreciation to the healthcare workers whose dedicated efforts contributed to this accomplishment, which underscores the Kingdom's exceptional ability to manage the health requirements of the world's largest human gatherings according to the highest international standards.
This commendation crowned a comprehensive system of work that spanned months, during which the Kingdom mobilized all its resources to ensure the safety and comfort of the pilgrims. Historically, managing crowds during Hajj has posed a significant health challenge, given the gathering of millions from around the world in a limited geographical area, increasing the likelihood of infectious disease outbreaks. However, the Kingdom's accumulated experience over decades, supported by investment in healthcare infrastructure and advanced technology, transformed this challenge into a global success story in the field of "mass gathering medicine.".
An integrated system to ensure a safe and healthy Hajj season
This success did not come about by chance, but rather is the result of proactive planning and a comprehensive healthcare system that begins in the pilgrim's home country before their arrival. The Saudi Minister of Health, Fahd bin Abdulrahman Al-Jalajel, confirmed that the success of the Hajj season and its freedom from any disease outbreaks were a result of implementing strict health requirements, including necessary vaccinations and immunizations, and ensuring the pilgrim's physical fitness. During the season, a wide network of hospitals and health centers was activated in Mecca, Medina, and the holy sites, supported by thousands of medical and ambulance personnel on standby around the clock.
Dr. Hanan Balkhi, Regional Director of the World Health Organization for the Eastern Mediterranean, also praised the advanced health preparedness provided by the Kingdom, which included employing modern technologies such as medical robots and drones to transport blood units and laboratory samples, in addition to providing health services in various locations and monitoring the health status of pilgrims throughout their spiritual journey, which enabled them to perform their rituals safely and with peace of mind.
A global impact that enhances international health security
The Kingdom's success in securing the Hajj pilgrimage extends beyond the local level, becoming a significant contribution to strengthening global health security. The safe return of millions of pilgrims to over 180 countries worldwide prevents the potential spread of infection across borders, representing a first line of defense for international health security. This commendation from the World Health Organization acknowledges Saudi Arabia's leading role as a global model in managing large gatherings, and its willingness to share its expertise with the world for use in organizing major international events.
The Minister of Health expressed his thanks and gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Highness the Crown Prince - may God protect them - for the unlimited support that the health sector enjoys, stressing that their generous directives to make human health and safety a top priority were the main driving force behind this achievement.
