Saudi Arabia has announced the successful pilot launch of a drone-based medicine delivery system that connects primary healthcare centres and hospitals at the holy sites. This initiative marks a significant milestone, being the first of its kind, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

The project aims to improve the efficiency of healthcare services provided to pilgrims during the upcoming 1446 Hajj season. This achievement is the result of collaboration between the Makkah Health Cluster and the National Unified Procurement Company (NUPCO), which worked together to ensure that medicines and medical equipment are delivered to the holy sites via drones.

The drone initiative is designed to speed up response times and facilitate healthcare operations by delivering necessary medical supplies during Hajj. For example, Mina Emergency Hospital successfully received a drone delivery of ice packs, which are essential for treating heat exhaustion and sunstroke. This delivery was part of heightened preparedness measures coinciding with the beginning of the stoning ritual on the first day of Eid Al-Adha.

This initiative is part of the healthcare system’s commitment to fostering a safe and healthy environment, allowing pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease and comfort. Furthermore, it reflects Saudi Arabia’s efforts to provide world-class healthcare services, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.