WHO and Saudi Arabia Expand Digital Health Collaboration with Hajj Health Card

New digital health partnership aims to enhance healthcare access and safety for millions of Hajj pilgrims through innovative global health standards.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have announced a significant expansion of their digital health collaboration, introducing the Hajj health card to support the approximately 3 million pilgrims who undertake the annual pilgrimage to Mecca. This new initiative is built on WHO's Global Digital Health Certification Network (GDHCN) and aims to improve healthcare quality and safety during the Hajj.

The Hajj health card securely stores essential health information, such as medications, allergies, immunization records, and pre-existing conditions. Pilgrims can use this digital card to provide authorized healthcare providers with up-to-date health data, ensuring personalized and accurate medical care during their pilgrimage. The card empowers individuals to manage their health information while travelling to Saudi Arabia.

"This initiative represents a milestone in expanding access to safer, person-centred digital health tools globally," said Dr. Jeremy Farrar, WHO Chief Scientist. He praised the collaboration between Saudi Arabia, WHO, and participating countries, highlighting the importance of strengthening digital health infrastructure.

The pilot phase of the Hajj health card was conducted in 2024, involving over 250,000 pilgrims from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Oman. These countries used global health standards to issue their national versions of the card, improving patient safety and care quality during the pilgrimage.

Given the pilot's success, WHO and Saudi Arabia have committed to expanding the initiative to include more countries. With the technical support of Saudi Arabia's digital health partner, LEAN, the program will enhance data security and facilitate wider adoption.

"This partnership enhances the safety and well-being of millions of pilgrims by leveraging digital health solutions," said Dr. Hanan Balkhy, WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean. The collaboration also aims to strengthen health systems in the region and globally.

The Hajj health card is part of a broader effort under WHO's Global Digital Health Certification Network (GDHCN), which was launched in 2023. With over 80 participating countries, GDHCN enables secure cross-border verification of health credentials, helping to streamline healthcare access during international travel. The network's encryption system ensures that health data remains private while being trusted across borders.

By joining the GDHCN, countries can reduce administrative burdens, improve border control efficiency, and lay the groundwork for future cross-border healthcare initiatives, such as e-prescriptions, insurance, and telemedicine.