Saudi Arabia is providing free, high-quality medical care to Hajj pilgrims this year. The Hajj Ministry and health authorities have made significant efforts to ensure that pilgrims receive top-notch healthcare services, including costly operations that can now be done for free. This year, pilgrims can receive expert medical attention and care in 172 hospitals and healthcare centres located at holy sites in Makkah and Madinah.
Healthcare services are being provided at 14 air, land and sea ports throughout the country, ensuring that pilgrims receive medical attention immediately upon arrival. Ambulances have been strategically placed to transport patients in need of urgent care. Medical staff, including 32,000 health practitioners, are available to serve those in need.
The Saudi health ministry is also providing virtual medical services, which were successfully launched during last year’s Hajj season. Several virtual clinics have been set up in holy sites and Madinah, enabling pilgrims to receive medical attention remotely.
At present, over half a million worshippers have already arrived in Madinah, with the number expected to increase significantly. To ensure that all pilgrims are cared for, Saudi Arabia has increased the number of hospitals, field hospitals, and health centres available this year. The total hospital bed capacity this year is 6,132,761, and services like dialysis will be offered free of charge to all pilgrims.
Medical assistance centres and mobile medical vehicles have also been set up to serve pilgrims travelling via the Mashaer and Haramain trains. A fleet of 190 ambulances and 16 emergency centres have been dedicated to the Jamaraat bridge facility in Mina, where pilgrims perform the Stoning of the Devil.
This year’s Hajj season promises to provide comprehensive healthcare services to all pilgrims. The Ministry of Health is leading the effort to ensure that every pilgrim receives the medical care they need to complete their Hajj with ease.
