Medical care in Makkah and Madinah

Where to turn if you or someone in your group becomes ill, and how to prepare.

Information only. Rules, permits and timings change, so confirm with official sources and your scholar before you travel. We do not sell, book or guarantee anything.

Emergency numbers

Call 911 in Makkah and Madinah for ambulance and emergencies, 997 for the Red Crescent, and 937 for the Ministry of Health line. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah line is 1966. See our emergency numbers page.

First aid in the mosques

The Ministry guide shows first aid centres on the Masjid al Haram map, along with ablution areas, wheelchair points and lost person guidance points. Free wheelchair services are reported near several gates.

What the Ministry of Health reported

For Ramadan 1446 the Ministry reported more than 65,000 healthcare services in Makkah and Madinah, including over 52,000 emergency department visits, about 10,000 primary care cases, 400 surgeries, more than 150 cardiac catheterisations and nearly 3,000 dialysis sessions. The Saudi Red Crescent reported average response times of about 5 minutes 48 seconds in Makkah and 5 minutes 26 seconds in Madinah. The page does not say whether treatment is free, so carry travel health insurance.

Before you travel

The guide advises checking passport validity, insurance and vaccination certificates, getting the required vaccinations, talking to a doctor about chronic conditions, practising walking and drinking enough water. See our health and vaccines page.

In the heat

Drink water often, rest in shaded or air conditioned areas and avoid the hottest hours. Carry your medicines in original packs with a doctor's note, and keep your hotel name and address on a card.

Frequently asked

What number do I call for an ambulance in Makkah?

911 or the Red Crescent on 997.

Is medical treatment free for Umrah visitors?

The Ministry of Health page we used does not say, so carry health insurance and confirm with the facility.

Is there first aid inside Masjid al Haram?

Yes, first aid centres are shown on the Ministry guide map.

Sources

Reviewed by the Makkah Madina Guide editorial team on 20 October 2026.