Terrifying Failure: 360-Degree Amusement Ride Snaps Mid-Air at Saudi Park, Injuring 23 Visitors in Dramatic Incident

I. Introduction

In a shocking incident at Green Mountain Park in Taif, Saudi Arabia, a popular amusement ride known as the “360 Degrees” snapped mid-air, causing 23 visitors to be injured. This dramatic mechanical failure occurred as the ride was in operation, leading to a chaotic scene that required an immediate emergency response.

II. Incident Overview

On the evening of July 30, during peak visiting hours at Green Mountain Park, the “360 Degrees” ride experienced a sudden and catastrophic failure. As the ride swung riders around in a high-speed pendulum motion, the central arm supporting the gondola fractured, causing the ride to collapse and crash to the ground. Riders were trapped mid-swing, and several were flung from their seats, leading to multiple injuries.

III. Injuries and Emergency Response

Emergency services responded promptly to the scene. Medical teams transported 23 injured visitors to nearby hospitals. Among them, three individuals were reported to be in critical condition, while others sustained fractures, bruises, and minor injuries. Hospitals in the Taif region were placed on heightened alert to manage the influx of patients.

IV. Eyewitness Accounts

Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud cracking sound, followed by screams and visible panic as the ride’s structure broke apart mid-air. Some riders were seen being thrown several meters away, while others were trapped in the collapsed parts of the ride. Bystanders rushed to assist, and many recorded the terrifying event on their mobile phones.

V. Investigation and Official Statements

Authorities have temporarily closed Green Mountain Park pending a thorough safety investigation. Officials, including the Taif Governor, have ordered the immediate inspection of all amusement rides within the region. Engineers and safety experts have been deployed to assess the mechanical failure’s cause and to evaluate the park’s maintenance practices.

VI. Safety Concerns and Industry Implications

This incident highlights the critical importance of stringent safety protocols and regular maintenance checks in amusement parks. As Saudi Arabia expands its tourism sector, incidents like this underscore the need for robust regulatory frameworks to ensure visitor safety and prevent future accidents.

VII. Broader Context: Amusement Ride Failures Worldwide

Similar accidents have been reported worldwide, often linked to mechanical wear, inadequate maintenance, or design flaws. These tragedies emphasize the necessity for continuous monitoring and upgrading of amusement ride infrastructure to meet international safety standards.

VIII. Summary of Key Facts

Detail
Information

Location
Green Mountain Park, Taif, Saudi Arabia

Date
July 30, 2025

Ride
“360 Degrees” pendulum ride

Number of Injured
23

Critical Injuries
3

Current Status
Park temporarily closed; investigation ongoing

IX. Conclusion

The collapse of the “360 Degrees” ride at Green Mountain Park is a sobering reminder of the risks involved in thrill rides when safety measures fail. As authorities continue their investigation, the affected individuals and their families await answers, while the amusement industry faces renewed calls to enhance safety standards.

📚 Related Articles for Further Reading

“23 Injured After Amusement Ride Collapse in Saudi Arabia” – Associated Press
“Mechanical Failure Causes Ride Collapse at Taif Amusement Park” – People Magazine
“Emergency Response After Saudi Theme Park Accident” – Times of India
“Global Overview: Safety Challenges in Amusement Parks” – CNN Travel
“Lessons Learned From Past Amusement Ride Accidents” – Safety Science Journal