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Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Health, Fahad AlJalajel, confirmed that the public health situation remains stable with no public health concerns during the Hajj season so far.
“We are pleased to announce that no epidemic cases have been detected so far and there is no risk for outbreak of diseases. The health and safety of pilgrims remain our highest priority,” said HE AlJalajel in an official statement. His Excellency emphasized the Kingdom’s proactive and comprehensive preparations to ensure a safe pilgrimage experience for everyone as the Ministry continues to closely monitor the health situation.
Saudi Arabia’s extensive preparedness has been guided by the directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and under the continuous oversight of Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. It is also made possible by close cooperation across public, private, and non-governmental sectors.
Saudi Arabia began Hajj readiness months in advance, conducting global health risk assessments for diseases such as yellow fever, polio, and meningitis. These efforts led to the implementation of strict health entry requirements and the introduction of new “health capability” criteria to ensure pilgrims are medically fit to perform the rituals safely.
AlJalajel expressed gratitude to all countries for cooperating and adhering to the guidelines. “Our story with Hajj is long-standing, but every year we write a new chapter – with greater readiness, deeper awareness, and smarter technology.”
Since the first flight under the Makkah Route Initiative arrived, health teams have been stationed at 14 entry points across land, air, and sea to provide immediate medical services. So far, over 50,000 healthcare services have been delivered, including 140 surgeries, 65 cardiac catheterizations, and six open-heart procedures.
As part of preventative measures against extreme heat, the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites planted over 10,000 trees, expanded shaded walkways, and installed 400 water stations and mist fans.
The Ministry has also launched many multilingual public health awareness raising campaigns through media, field engagement, and international medical missions.
The Ministry of Health has also significantly boosted the health infrastructure in the Holy sites. Bed capacity has increased by 60% compared to last year. A new emergency hospital with 200 beds was recently inaugurated in Mina, while three field hospitals – totaling more than 1,200 beds – were deployed in collaboration with the Ministries of Defense, Interior, and National Guard.
In a record milestone, this year also sees the highest-ever private sector involvement in Hajj healthcare, with three major private hospitals operating in the Holy sites.
To ensure rapid emergency response, 11 medical evacuation aircraft, 900 ambulances, and 71 new emergency points have been activated, with more than 7,500 paramedics on the ground.
Advanced digital solutions are being deployed, including smart monitoring devices for high-risk pilgrims connected to Seha Virtual Hospital—recognized as the world’s largest virtual hospital—and telemedicine services for remote consultations.
Behind these efforts are more than 50,000 healthcare and technical professionals working with full readiness.
In a direct message to pilgrims, AlJalajel said: “You are the most important part of Hajj. Your awareness, prevention, and responsibility matter. Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged walking and overcrowded areas, wear your mask, use an umbrella, and follow movement instructions. If you feel unwell, seek help immediately. We are always by your side.”
He then added that “awareness, prevention, and responsibility are not only personal choices—but religious and humanitarian obligations to protect the health and safety of all pilgrims.”
