Saudi King Salman awards King Abdulaziz medal to organ donors

RIYADH (Dunya News) - King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has approved the awarding of the King Abdulaziz Medal (third class) to 200 male and female citizens in recognition of their significant humanitarian efforts, including the donation of organs during life or after brain death.

This royal decree continues the national tradition of honoring citizens who give the gift of life. Over the past four years, King Salman has awarded this medal to more than 2,500 individuals for their lifesaving contributions.

A recent television report highlighted the ongoing national campaign, showing how the kingdom appreciates the extraordinary sacrifices of citizens and bereaved families, while promoting organ donation culture nationwide.

Public participation in the organ donation program notably increased in May 2021, when King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman officially registered as organ donors themselves.

The national donor program is managed by the Saudi Center for Organ Transplantation, which was initially established in 1984 to assist patients with kidney disorders and later expanded to include heart, liver, lung, and other organ transplants.

Additionally, the kingdom’s Tawakkalna app now features a digital recognition system displaying gold, silver, or bronze badges on registered donor profiles to provide moral support and public acknowledgment.