Saudi Arabia's 18th Hajj Volunteer Health Program Engages 710 Students

The 18th edition of the volunteer health program for the Hajj season was organized by the charity Derham Waqaya under the supervision of Saudi Arabia's Ministries of Health and Hajj and Umrah. Seven hundred ten medical students and recent graduates from universities across the Kingdom formed 115 field teams that operated at key sites in the holy sites, providing first‑aid, medical checks and health education to pilgrims.

Volunteers reported a range of experiences, from treating heat‑related fatigue to delivering meals and basic care to pilgrims who had not eaten. Participants highlighted the practical medical training, teamwork under pressure, and the spiritual reward of serving the "Guests of the Mercy" during the pilgrimage. The program also aligns with Vision 2030 objectives on volunteering and social responsibility, supporting the health system during one of the world's largest annual gatherings.