The Qassim Health Cluster announced significant achievements in health security and prevention through the Health Control Center at Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport, revealing the implementation of a massive package of procedures exceeding 484,000 international health measures during 2025. These efforts are part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening air entry points and enhancing preparedness to deal with any cross-border health risks, thus ensuring the safety of the local community and visitors.
Record numbers in screening and early detection
Official statistics released by the airport authority demonstrated the accuracy and efficiency of the medical teams working there, who handled 400,354 cases of visual and thermal screening of passengers. This step is a cornerstone of the epidemiological surveillance system, aiming for the early detection of any suspected health symptoms upon arrival, thus facilitating isolation and rapid medical intervention before passengers interact with the community.
Enhancing health security and keeping pace with national transformation
These figures take on particular significance when viewed within the context of the healthcare transformation underway in Saudi Arabia as part of Vision 2030, which prioritizes prevention. Health monitoring centers at international airports play a pivotal role as the first line of defense against the introduction of infectious diseases and epidemics. The performance at Qassim Airport reflects a strict adherence to the International Health Regulations (IHR), further solidifying the Kingdom's position as a leader in global health security.
Comprehensive therapeutic and preventive services
The center's efforts extended beyond monitoring to include providing direct medical services. A total of 5,683 travelers benefited from the airport's medical clinic, and 1,240 medical and emergency procedures were performed to efficiently address transient medical conditions. Furthermore, as part of its efforts to promote community immunity, the center conducted 14,326 seasonal influenza vaccination campaigns, demonstrating its commitment to leveraging travel hubs as centers for awareness and prevention.
High readiness to serve the guests of God
Due to the strategic location of the Qassim region, the center paid special attention to pilgrims, as 4,897 pilgrims arriving to perform Umrah were examined to ensure their safety and freedom from infectious diseases, in addition to implementing 57,474 precise procedures related to the application of international health requirements, which contributes to providing a safe and healthy environment in the holy sites.
Logistical procedures and global standards
On the logistical front, efforts included carrying out 24 ambulance transfers of critical cases in coordination with referral hospitals, and handling 140 emergency cases requiring urgent intervention. Specialized teams also ensured environmental safety by conducting 133 disinfection and sanitization operations on aircraft (spraying planes) to guarantee safe and pollution-free flights for passengers.
