Paramedics Resuscitate Pilgrim in Makkah’s Grand Mosque Within Two Minutes

Sajid Raza March 16, 2025

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Authorities received a report at 4:06 p.m. of an Algerian pilgrim in his 60s who had fallen unconscious in the outer courtyards of the mosque. (SPA)

Quick action by emergency teams saves life during busy Ramadan period

RIYADH – Paramedics successfully resuscitated an Algerian pilgrim in his 60s who had suffered a cardiac arrest at the Grand Mosque in Makkah on Saturday, just two minutes after the emergency call was made.

At 4:06 p.m., authorities were alerted to an unconscious pilgrim in the outer courtyards of the mosque. The Saudi Red Crescent’s rapid response teams, which were already on alert for the busy Ramadan period, immediately attended to the situation. Using an electrical defibrillator and chest compression device, they managed to restore the pilgrim’s vital signs.

After the successful resuscitation, the patient was swiftly transported to a nearby medical facility for further treatment and observation. The swift intervention underscores the effectiveness of the Saudi Red Crescent’s emergency preparedness, specifically tailored for the influx of pilgrims during Ramadan.

The holy month has seen a significant increase in emergency cases. In fact, the Saudi health authorities reported over 240 emergency cases being transferred from the courtyards of the Prophet’s Mosque to medical centers. Meanwhile, the Madinah Health Cluster, which includes local hospitals and clinics, has provided critical care to more than 23,000 pilgrims from over 70 countries this Ramadan.

The Madinah Cardiac Center has also played a key role, performing open-heart surgeries and cardiac procedures, including seven catheterizations, for Umrah pilgrims from five different countries.

The authorities continue to ensure the safety and well-being of millions of visitors during this holy month by maintaining a high level of readiness and providing state-of-the-art medical care.