Mobile Cardiology Unit Performs 14 Emergency Procedures During Hajj, Makkah Health Cluster Reports

Since the start of the Hajj pilgrimage on June 4, a mobile cardiac catheterization unit deployed by East Arafat Hospital has successfully conducted 14 emergency heart procedures, according to the Makkah Health Cluster.

The specialized mobile unit operates under the direct supervision of King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah and is staffed by a dedicated cardiology team, along with qualified Saudi professionals in anesthesia, nursing, and urgent cardiac care. The unit is stationed at the holy sites to provide immediate medical intervention for pilgrims experiencing cardiac emergencies.

Health officials highlighted that this initiative significantly reduces the need to transfer patients to specialized hospitals, thus improving patient safety and ensuring continuous and timely care during the intense period of Hajj.

In a separate emergency rescue, the Ministry of Defense’s Air Medical Evacuation team transported an Indonesian pilgrim who suffered a cardiac arrest on June 5 in Makkah. The patient was airlifted from Al-Noor Hospital in Makkah to King Abdulaziz Specialist Hospital in Taif for advanced care. Air evacuation units positioned near the holy sites play a vital role in delivering rapid emergency responses, enhancing rescue efficiency and increasing survival chances.

Additionally, health authorities have successfully tested a drone delivery service to transport medicines during Hajj. The service, launched as part of the ongoing pilgrimage which will conclude on June 9, has been trialed over the past two years to ensure drones can safely take off and land and operate under high temperatures. Equipped with cooling systems, the drones are designed to deliver critical medical supplies quickly and efficiently.

This drone delivery initiative aligns with the broader healthcare transformation goals outlined in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to enhance medical services through innovative technologies.

The combined efforts of the mobile cardiology unit, air medical evacuation teams, and drone deliveries demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s commitment to safeguarding pilgrims’ health during one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.