Saudi Ministry of Defense Deploys Mobile Field Hospital to Support Hajj Pilgrims

In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the Saudi Ministry of Defense has deployed a fully equipped mobile field hospital at the holy sites to enhance medical support for pilgrims during the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

The state-of-the-art facility, unveiled on Wednesday, is part of the Kingdom’s broader efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of millions of pilgrims expected to take part in the Hajj this year. According to the ministry, the mobile hospital is designed to deliver comprehensive and high-quality medical services throughout the pilgrimage.

“The Joint Forces Command has harnessed all facilities and health services to ensure that the guests of God perform the Hajj pilgrimage with ease and in good health,” the ministry said in a statement.

Comprising 29 trailers and 26 modular units, the hospital includes key components such as inpatient wards with a 50-bed capacity, a fully stocked pharmacy, radiology and diagnostic imaging units, a medical laboratory, and specialized outpatient clinics. The facility also houses a fully operational surgical suite, complete with a recovery and sterilization wing, intensive care and observation units, and an emergency department.

Officials say the initiative reflects the vital role of the Ministry of Defense in supporting national healthcare infrastructure during Hajj and underscores the government’s commitment to providing world-class services to pilgrims.

In addition to the mobile facility, the ministry’s General Directorate for Health Services announced on Tuesday that it is prepared to implement a comprehensive medical plan in coordination with the Ministry of Health. The plan includes the operation of 36 health centers across key pilgrimage sites, with a total bed capacity exceeding 1,000.

A total of 1,791 health and administrative personnel have been deployed across fixed and mobile hospitals, emergency medical centers, and specialized clinics in Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah — the central locations of the pilgrimage rites.

This expanded medical readiness comes as part of Saudi Arabia’s annual efforts to ensure a safe and smooth Hajj experience, particularly in light of the high temperatures and the physical demands of the journey. The mobile field hospital is expected to play a critical role in responding to emergencies and delivering care directly where it is needed most.

The launch reinforces the Kingdom’s continued investment in modern infrastructure and healthcare technology to support the spiritual journey of millions of Muslims from around the world.