Saudi Arabia successfully launched drone-based medicine delivery trials during Hajj 2025, marking a major innovation in healthcare logistics for mass gatherings. The initiative was led by the Saudi Ministry of Health and the Makkah Health Cluster, in collaboration with NUPCO and Terra Drone Arabia. Drones were used to transport medical supplies—like ice packs for heatstroke patients—to hospitals and clinics in Mina and Arafat, reducing delivery time from 90 minutes to just 6.

The drones used were DJI Matrice 350 RTK models equipped with temperature-controlled transport boxes, operated safely through Unifly’s Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) software. The system ensured real-time tracking and safe navigation over the densely populated pilgrimage zones. Deliveries were made to six health centers and were supported by helicopter services to helipad-equipped hospitals for critical needs.

This successful pilot aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to digitize public services and modernize the Kingdom’s healthcare system. The trial demonstrated the efficiency, safety, and scalability of drone logistics in high-pressure environments and is expected to shape future healthcare delivery strategies both during Hajj and across Saudi Arabia.

The project also reinforces the role of Saudi Arabia’s Seha Virtual Hospital, already the world’s largest of its kind, in integrating cutting-edge technology into healthcare. This trial is seen as a global first in using drones for medical delivery at a religious mass gathering.