Al-Hada amusement park disaster has shocked Saudi Arabia and the world after a thrilling ride malfunctioned, injuring 23 people. The horrifying event, captured on video, quickly went viral, igniting discussions about amusement park safety and regulatory standards across the region.
The Incident: A Thrill Ride Turns Deadly
On the evening of July 30, 2025, families and tourists gathered at Green Mountain Park in Al-Hada, Taif, eager to enjoy the popular “360 Big Pendulum” ride. Known for its thrilling swings and heart-pounding rotations, the ride suddenly became a scene of terror. Eyewitnesses reported a loud cracking sound before the central arm of the ride snapped mid-air, sending the passenger section crashing to the ground.
According to several reports, some riders were thrown from their seats, while others were injured by the recoiling structure. Panic spread immediately as visitors screamed and fled, unsure of what had just occurred.
“It was like a scene from a nightmare. People were screaming, running, and trying to help each other,” said a bystander who witnessed the collapse.
Emergency Response and Victim Accounts
Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene. The Saudi Red Crescent Authority and local hospitals coordinated to provide immediate medical care. All 23 injured individuals were treated at the scene before being transported to nearby medical facilities. Three of the victims were reported in critical condition, while the others suffered fractures, bruises, and minor injuries.
Hospital officials confirmed that, fortunately, no fatalities occurred. Many families praised the quick response of paramedics, who were able to stabilize victims on-site.
The Viral Video: Shock Across Social Media
Footage of the ride collapse quickly spread across social media, drawing millions of views. The video shows the pendulum snapping mid-air, riders screaming, and bystanders rushing to help. Many viewers expressed horror and concern, while some debated whether such rides should be allowed without stricter safety regulations.
The video has ignited an online conversation about the safety of amusement park rides worldwide, with hashtags trending on Twitter and Instagram calling for better inspections and accountability.
Official Investigation and Park Response
In response to the incident, the governor of Taif, Prince Saud bin Nahar bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, ordered the immediate closure of Green Mountain Park pending a thorough investigation. Authorities are examining mechanical failures, maintenance records, and operational procedures to determine the cause of the ride collapse.
The park management issued a statement expressing deep regret over the incident and assured the public that full cooperation with investigators is underway.
Safety Concerns: A Regional Perspective
Amusement park accidents, though rare, highlight the importance of strict safety standards and regular inspections. Experts point out that thrill rides, especially high-speed pendulum and rotation rides, require constant maintenance and professional oversight.
Several advocacy groups have called for:
- Mandatory safety certifications for all amusement park rides
- Regular third-party inspections and audits
- Emergency preparedness training for park staff
- Transparent reporting of mechanical issues
The Al-Hada disaster has reinforced the urgent need for robust regulations, not only in Saudi Arabia but across the Middle East, where amusement parks are increasingly popular among tourists and locals.
Eyewitness Accounts: Personal Stories from the Scene
One visitor recounted the chaos:
“I saw the arm break and people flying everywhere. My heart sank. We helped each other get out safely, but it was terrifying.”
Another parent shared relief that their child, who was on a nearby ride, remained unharmed:
“I can’t imagine what would have happened if we were closer. This park has always been fun, but today was a nightmare.”
These firsthand accounts underline the emotional impact of the disaster on families, staff, and the broader community.
Conclusion: Lessons and Future Measures
The Al-Hada amusement park disaster serves as a sobering reminder that amusement park safety cannot be taken for granted. While no lives were lost, the incident has left a lasting impression on visitors and authorities alike.
As investigations continue, it is expected that lessons learned from this tragedy will lead to stronger safety measures, improved ride maintenance, and stricter regulations. The goal is to ensure that thrill-seekers can enjoy amusement parks without fearing for their lives.
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