Ministry of Health provides over 2.5 million services during Hajj season
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Health reported no epidemic outbreaks during the 2026 Hajj season.
- Over 2.5 million health services were provided to pilgrims, including hospitalizations and surgeries.
- Advanced technologies like drones and smartwatches were used to enhance healthcare delivery.
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Health successfully concluded its health operations for the 2026 Hajj season, reporting no epidemic outbreaks or public health threats among the millions of pilgrims. Medical teams delivered over 2.5 million health services from the season's start until Dhul Hijjah 12.
The ministry's data indicates extensive care was provided, with 114,889 individuals utilizing health centers and urgent-care facilities. Emergency departments treated 58,462 cases, while outpatient clinics saw 29,846 patients. Furthermore, 8,342 pilgrims were admitted to hospitals, and specialized teams performed 410 surgical procedures, including 323 cardiac catheterizations and 33 open-heart surgeries.
Preventive measures were also a key focus, with more than 292,585 preventive services delivered through intensified awareness campaigns. The unified 937 call center handled over one million calls, offering round-the-clock medical and advisory support in seven languages. This year's Hajj also saw the unprecedented deployment of advanced medical technologies, such as drones for rapid medicine transport, medical robotics for complex surgeries, and smartwatches for remote monitoring of high-risk pilgrims, underscoring the Kingdom's commitment to innovative health solutions.
Originally published by Saudi Gazette. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.