To ensure the health and safety of pilgrims, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) is intensifying its preparations for the Hajj season by implementing training initiatives and engaging in collaborative scenario exercises that enhance rapid response capabilities to health incidents. Notably, during the holy month of Ramadan, the SFDA played an active role at the National Crises and Disasters Control Center at Mina Hospital, strengthening coordination among relevant government bodies and supporting preventative measures.

As part of these efforts, the SFDA conducted a specialized workshop in Makkah, focusing on "Food Poisoning," for its personnel deployed to the Center. This workshop detailed the protocols for swiftly addressing suspected cases, emphasized the regulatory procedures, and underscored the importance of immediate reporting and interagency coordination.

The National Crises and Disasters Control Center serves as a crucial hub for managing health crises and disasters during the Hajj season. It facilitates collaboration among all relevant stakeholders, promoting integrated preparedness and unified responses to health emergencies, reporting, and risk management. The Center provides real-time health situation monitoring, enabling prompt decision-making, activation of emergency plans, and rapid intervention. It also oversees the readiness of health facilities, ensuring swift incident response, thereby safeguarding pilgrim health and safety.

Furthermore, the SFDA's Makkah office participated in a joint simulation of a virtual food poisoning incident, organized by the Ministry of Health in partnership with the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Tourism, the Saudi Red Crescent Authority, and the Holy Makkah Municipality. This exercise aimed to evaluate the preparedness of government agencies in handling such incidents, foster enhanced cooperation and integration, and assess emergency operational plans to ensure effective response and rapid control of foodborne outbreaks.

These initiatives are integral to the SFDA's oversight and supervisory responsibilities, complementing its awareness and preventive efforts during the Hajj season. The Authority also maintains its rigorous field inspections and monitoring activities across its branches and offices, ensuring food establishments adhere to health standards and verifying product safety throughout the manufacturing, storage, and distribution processes.

Through these comprehensive programs and activities, the SFDA aims to guarantee the provision of safe food, medicine, and medical equipment for pilgrims and Umrah performers, while strengthening collaboration among all relevant entities, in alignment with the directives of the wise leadership to serve the Holy Mosques visitors and ensure their well-being.