The Red Crescent rescues a pilgrim at the Prophet's Mosque in record time
In a scene that embodies the highest standards of humanitarian and medical readiness in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the ambulance and volunteer teams of the Saudi Red Crescent Authority in the Madinah region, thanks to God, were able to save the life of a 63-year-old Thai pilgrim, after he suffered a critical health crisis that almost cost him his life inside the precincts of the Prophet’s Mosque.
Details of the crucial moments
The story began on Saturday evening when the operations room of the medical deportation center received an urgent report at 8:08 PM stating that a person had collapsed inside the Prophet's Mosque. In a response described as exemplary, the field teams stationed on-site arrived at the scene at 8:09 PM, just one minute after receiving the report—a world-class response time that reflects meticulous planning and the strategic deployment of ambulance teams within the central area.
Upon arrival, it was discovered that the pilgrim was suffering from complete cardiac and respiratory arrest. Medical personnel immediately initiated advanced cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) protocols, supported by an additional backup team to ensure the highest level of care. These professional efforts were successful; the patient regained a pulse and was safely transferred to Al Safia Health Center for further examination and treatment.
The importance of rapid response in critical situations
This incident is of medical significance, as the first few minutes in cases of cardiac arrest are the difference between life and death, or permanent brain damage. Medical studies confirm that immediate intervention with CPR significantly increases the chances of survival. This achievement reflects the efficiency of the emergency medical services system provided by the Kingdom to pilgrims, where teams are equipped with the latest mobile medical devices to handle critical cases in the field.
Healthcare for pilgrims: A national priority
This event comes within the framework of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to serve pilgrims to the Two Holy Mosques, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Guests of God Service Program. The Saudi government places great importance on ensuring healthcare for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims by deploying mobile and foot ambulance teams and activating the role of health volunteers, who constitute a vital component of humanitarian work during religious seasons.
The integration between official ambulance teams and volunteer staff at the Prophet’s Mosque represents a model to be emulated in crowd management and emergency response, which enhances the sense of reassurance among worshippers and visitors that they are in safe hands that are watching over their safety around the clock.
