WHO Says Saudi Health Ministry Sets Benchmark for Pilgrim Health
WHO highlighted Saudi preparedness, use of robots and drones, wide access to health services, and continuous monitoring during Hajj, under a comprehensive surveillance and rapid response system.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health said the 2026 Hajj season recorded no epidemic outbreaks or public health threats, drawing praise from the World Health Organization for the Kingdom’s management of one of the world’s largest human gatherings. World Health Organization Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus congratulated Saudi Arabia on the season, praising the dedication of healthcare workers and their contribution to providing a safe and healthy environment for pilgrims.
The World Health Organization’s Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, Hanan Balkhy, commended the level of preparedness and the use of modern technologies, including robots and drones. She noted the wide availability of health services across multiple locations and the continuous monitoring of pilgrims’ health throughout the rituals.
The Ministry of Health said this outcome followed the implementation of a comprehensive and integrated health system during Hajj. Measures included epidemiological surveillance, health assessments, risk management, and rapid response mechanisms, coordinated with national authorities and international health organisations.
Minister of Health Fahd Al-Jalajel said health security during Hajj is an integral part of global health security due to the arrival of millions of pilgrims from around the world. He said the season’s results were based on a framework that began with health requirements and mandatory vaccinations before arrival and continued with early preparedness, continuous monitoring, and timely, effective responses.
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