Bupa Arabia launches first-ever field clinics in Mina to support pilgrims during Hajj

SAUDI ARABIA—Bupa CareConnect, the healthcare division of Bupa Arabia, has taken a major step forward in healthcare delivery by launching its first-ever field-based “Bupa Clinics” in Mina from June 4 to 9.

This initiative marks a significant expansion of Bupa Arabia’s services beyond corporate campuses, bringing integrated, technology-driven medical care directly to pilgrims during one of the world’s largest and most spiritually important gatherings—the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

The “Bupa Clinics” were established in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Urgent Care Centers as part of Bupa Arabia’s social responsibility efforts.

These clinics were open to all pilgrims, whether Bupa members or not, providing comprehensive primary healthcare around the clock.

Conveniently located near key facilities like Al-Dawaa Pharmacy, the clinics ensured easy access to medical care within the sacred sites of Mina.

Operating 24/7 throughout the Hajj period, the clinics handled a total of 1,368 medical cases. Of these, 75% were male pilgrims, while 25% were female.

The medical team consisted of six doctors and three nurses working in shifts to maintain continuous readiness and prompt response.

The range of services offered was broad, including vital signs monitoring, treatment for heat exhaustion, management of chronic illnesses, and emergency care.

Notably, 20 patients required transfer to the Armed Forces Hospital in Mina for advanced treatment, and one critical case needed urgent life-saving intervention, highlighting the team’s preparedness.

Pilgrims sought help for various conditions, such as headaches, fatigue, skin infections, joint pain, conjunctivitis, stomach issues, heatstroke, and minor injuries.

The clinics emphasized culturally sensitive and timely care, with special focus on elderly pilgrims and those with chronic diseases.

Equipped with modern medical devices like ECG machines, digital blood pressure monitors, and glucose meters, the clinics were connected to Bupa Arabia’s unified digital health platform.

This integration enhanced diagnostic accuracy, improved record-keeping, and streamlined patient referrals.

Beyond physical health, the clinics also provided mental health support and health education, adopting a holistic approach that combined digital innovation with compassionate care to serve pilgrims fully.

This deployment was a first for Bupa Clinics outside their usual corporate locations, which include major sites like SABIC, Savola, the King Abdullah Financial District, and the National Housing Company.

By establishing a presence in Mina, Bupa CareConnect extended its reach to Saudi Arabia’s largest annual gathering, reaffirming its commitment to accessible and scalable healthcare solutions.

Bupa Arabia’s CEO, Tal Nazer, expressed pride in bringing Bupa Clinics to Hajj for the first time, emphasizing the goal of offering advanced, people-centered care to all pilgrims, regardless of insurance status.

He highlighted that this initiative aligns with their mission to expand quality healthcare access where it is most needed, using an integrated model driven by innovation and compassion.

Dr. Abdullah Khafagy, Executive Medical Director at Bupa CareConnect, noted that Hajj presents unique medical challenges, and the clinics enabled proactive responses through early screenings, preventive care, and timely interventions right in the heart of Mina.

He described the initiative as a reflection of their healthcare philosophy—proactive, accessible, and respectful of human dignity.

This project supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by enhancing quality of life and encouraging private sector participation in public health.

It serves as a model for integrated, preventive, and curative care tailored to large public events.

Furthermore, Bupa Arabia continues to lead healthcare innovation in the Kingdom.

The company has introduced mobile digital clinics to reach remote areas and launched the “Bupa App,” which allows users to manage appointments, virtual consultations, and ongoing care seamlessly.

In a pioneering move, Bupa Arabia also introduced “Bupa Pro,” the Kingdom’s first health insurance program that removes the need for pre-approval for treatments.

Powered by artificial intelligence, Bupa Pro streamlines claims processing and reduces bureaucratic delays, enhancing the patient experience.

Through this groundbreaking initiative in Mina, Bupa Arabia has once again demonstrated its leadership in health innovation, delivering inclusive, technology-driven, and compassionate care to all, especially during spiritually significant moments like Hajj.

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