Assessing the Coordination Between the National Health Emergency Operations Centre and Other National Organisations in Disaster Management in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This research assesses the coordination between the National Health Emergency Operations Centre (NHEOC) and other national organisations in disaster management during Qatar's World Cup 2022. It explores the effectiveness of these efforts through a mixed-methods approach, incorporating secondary research, document analysis, online questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews. The study evaluates the structural, functional, and outcome aspects of NHEOC's coordination mechanisms. Key findings reveal the significant role of advanced technologies such as geographic information systems (GIS), real-time health monitoring systems, and multi-channel communication in enhancing situational awareness and response capabilities. The study highlights the success of interagency collaboration and communication protocols, enabling the NHEOC to coordinate effectively with internal departments of the Ministry of Health, government bodies, non-governmental organisations, and international partners. Despite the overall effectiveness, areas for improvement were identified, particularly in operational integration with the Public Health Authority (PHA), the need for multi-sectoral monitoring systems, and continuous professional development for disaster management personnel. Comparative analysis with other studies on major sporting events, such as previous World Cups and Olympics, reinforces the importance of multi-agency coordination and technological integration in disaster management. The study concludes with recommendations for enhancing future disaster management efforts, emphasizing the need for ongoing training, investment in advanced technologies, and the development of standardized communication procedures. These improvements aim to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s disaster management framework, ensuring a more resilient and effective response to future international events.