Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense provides safety and security services, including air ambulance support, as pilgrims gather in Mina for Hajj. The Kingdom has launched the air ambulance service to improve healthcare for Hajj pilgrims this season.
According to the ministry, the first emergency case has already been transported. The Saudi Red Crescent Authority’s ambulance teams rescued an African pilgrim in his 60s, suffering from chest pains, from the Grand Mosque area. After an initial medical examination and an ECG, he was flown from the Makkah Clock Tower landing pad to King Abdullah Medical City.
The Ministry of Defense will continue providing air ambulance services throughout Hajj in cooperation with the Saudi Red Crescent Authority and the Security Aviation division of the Presidency of State Security. Brigadier General Dr Bandar bin Muhammad Al-Jaeed stated that the Armed Forces Medical Services' vertical and jet air medical evacuation aircraft are ready 24/7 to respond to emergencies and transport patients needing further treatment.
These aircraft are equipped with the latest medical equipment, including an oxygen machine that can operate onboard for up to four hours. The goal is to support the security services and government agencies in providing all necessary facilities for pilgrims, ensuring they can perform their Hajj rituals with ease, security, and safety.