Healthcare innovation: How drones are transforming medicine delivery in Saudi

The healthcare system in Saudi Arabia has announced the successful pilot launch of a drone-based medicine delivery service between primary healthcare centers and hospitals in the holy sites.

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This marks a significant milestone as a first-of-its-kind initiative. The project aims to enhance the efficiency of healthcare services provided to pilgrims during the 1446 Hajj season, according to a Saudi Press Agency report.

The achievement was made possible through active collaboration between the Makkah Health Cluster and the National Unified Procurement Company (NUPCO), which jointly ensured the supply of medicines and medical equipment to the holy sites using drones.

Purpose of the initiative

The initiative is designed to accelerate response times and support healthcare operations by delivering medicines and medical supplies during Hajj. In one key instance, Mina Emergency Hospital received a drone delivery of ice packs used to treat heat exhaustion and sunstroke, as part of intensified preparedness efforts coinciding with the start of the stoning ritual on the first day of Eid Al-Adha.

Drone-based delivery service: How the process works

The drone-based delivery service follows a multi-phase process starting with preparation, including determining quantities and coordinating with healthcare facilities. The next phase involves packaging using advanced technology, in line with Saudi Food and Drug Authority regulations. Medical, pharmaceutical, and laboratory items are then processed, issued, and delivered to healthcare locations across the holy sites. The final phases include transport scheduling and real-time tracking via a central monitoring dashboard to ensure smooth operations.

The initiative aligns with the healthcare system’s commitment to creating a safe and healthy environment that enables pilgrims to perform their rituals with ease and comfort. It also reflects ongoing efforts to deliver world-class healthcare services in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.