Saudi Arabia has launched an innovative initiative to transport critical medical supplies during this year’s Hajj using drones and helicopters. This high-tech approach significantly reduces delivery times, enhancing healthcare services at large gatherings.

Credt: WAM

The Saudi Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the National Unified Procurement Company (Nupco), has integrated drones and helicopters into its medical supply chain. This marks the first time such a system has been used globally for a religious event of this magnitude. Health Minister Fahad Al Jalajel emphasized that the system aims to ensure a rapid response to medical emergencies, especially in areas with high pilgrim density.

The drone network is designed to deliver urgent medical supplies, including life-saving medications and critical equipment, from Nupco distribution hubs directly to six health centers located in Arafat and Mina. According to the ministry, this advanced system has cut delivery times from approximately one hour down to just five minutes.

In addition to drones, helicopters have been deployed to assist healthcare centers equipped with helipads. This air-based logistics solution helps to bypass ground congestion, ensuring that time-sensitive medical shipments reach their intended destinations, particularly during peak periods when over a million pilgrims gather at the holy sites. This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to modernize public services and establish itself as a leader in managing large-scale events.