Saudi Arabia Deploys Drones and Helicopters for Medical Supply Delivery During Hajj Season

Photography: Courtesy of SPA

Riyadh, June 2, 2025 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – With each Hajj season, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to advance healthcare services for pilgrims through innovative solutions. For the 1446 AH Hajj season, the Kingdom introduced pioneering initiatives in the medical supply sector, setting new global standards for healthcare delivery during large-scale religious gatherings.

The initiatives aim to ensure that pilgrims perform their rituals safely, supported by advanced smart healthcare systems reflecting the latest international innovations.

Minister of Health Fahad AlJalajel announced the integration of drones and helicopters into the Kingdom’s medical supply framework, in collaboration with the National Unified Procurement Company (Nupco). The initiative is designed to enhance the efficiency of smart medical logistics for large gatherings such as Hajj.

Drones were deployed to deliver urgent medical items—including medicines and essential supplies—from Nupco’s distribution centers directly to healthcare facilities in high-congestion areas. The system has reduced average delivery times from one hour to approximately five minutes, targeting six key medical centers: three in Arafat and three in Mina.

In addition, a helicopter supply initiative was launched to support healthcare facilities equipped with helipads in densely populated pilgrimage zones. This capability allows urgent medical shipments to bypass ground traffic, ensuring timely delivery during peak periods.

By adopting these advanced logistics solutions, Saudi Arabia is establishing new global benchmarks for delivering medical services in crowded environments, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, public health, and improving the overall Hajj experience.