Taif Governor Orders Immediate Probe After Amusement Ride Collapse Injures 23

JEDDAH: A popular amusement park in the Al-Hada area of Taif, Saudi Arabia, has been ordered shut down following a horrific mechanical failure of a ride that left 23 people injured, including three in critical condition.

The incident occurred on Wednesday evening when the “360 Big Pendulum” ride—a large, swinging pendulum attraction—collapsed mid-operation, sending shock and panic through the park.

In an official statement published on the regional government’s X (formerly Twitter) account, Taif Governor Prince Saud bin Nahar bin Saud bin Abdulaziz directed the immediate closure of the entire resort pending the outcome of a full-scale investigation.

“Several injuries occurred; some were treated at the site, while others were transferred to hospital care. Thankfully, there were no fatalities,” the statement confirmed.

Eyewitnesses and multiple videos circulating online captured the terrifying moment the central column of the massive pendulum snapped horizontally during its swing, causing the passenger arm to plummet to the ground while riders were strapped into their seats.

One video shows stunned visitors screaming and rushing to help as debris and parts from the ride flew across the area, striking individuals on the opposite side of the arc. Emergency responders described scenes of chaos, with passengers suffering broken limbs, concussions, and blunt force injuries.

Civil defense, emergency medical services, and security forces responded within minutes of the accident. Of the 23 injured:

• Three victims remain in critical condition.

• Several others sustained moderate to serious injuries.

• Some were treated on-site for minor wounds.

All those requiring further care were transported to local hospitals, and families of the injured have been notified.

The incident has sparked widespread concern on social media and among safety advocates, with renewed calls for stricter safety protocols, more frequent mechanical inspections, and better regulatory oversight of amusement facilities across the Kingdom.

Calls for accountability have intensified, particularly as videos of the mechanical failure continue to circulate, showing what appears to be a structural defect or possible maintenance lapse in one of the ride’s primary support systems.

Authorities have launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the structural failure. The General Entertainment Authority and municipal inspection teams are expected to be involved, with preliminary findings to be released in the coming days.

The park will remain closed indefinitely until the investigation concludes and all safety measures are reevaluated.

Governor Prince Saud emphasized that public safety is the top priority and that negligence if found will not be tolerated.

“Those responsible must be held accountable. We will ensure the highest safety standards are enforced moving forward,” the governor’s office said.

The “360 Big Pendulum” was one of the park’s signature attractions, drawing thousands of visitors each week, especially during the summer holiday season.