Makkah: The Saudi Red Crescent Authority in Makkah introduced an electric wheelchair as a miniature field ambulance unit in the Grand Mosque, as part of efforts to strengthen rapid response capabilities in high-density environments. The initiative is designed to reduce emergency response times and enhance the efficiency of patient transport in areas inaccessible to conventional ambulance vehicles.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the authority stated that the electric wheelchair is specifically adapted to the movement dynamics at the Grand Mosque. Its compact size and maneuverability enable medical teams to navigate crowded spaces and narrow passageways swiftly, allowing them to reach critical cases without disrupting the flow of worshippers performing Tawaf.

The deployment is intended to accelerate on-site medical transport, particularly during peak periods, while also reducing the physical strain on paramedics, thereby improving service quality and response speed. Field personnel assigned to operate the units underwent specialized training programs before the launch to ensure safe and effective use in line with approved medical protocols.