A pendulum-style ride at Green Mountain Park in Saudi Arabia collapsed mid-air, injuring at least 23 people, with three in critical condition. The incident, which occurred at the popular Taif resort, has sparked concern over the safety of amusement rides in the region. Viral video footage circulating since Thursday shows the ‘360° ride’ swinging at full speed before the main support column suddenly fractures. The passenger platform, filled with riders, plummets to the ground, sparking panic as witnesses describe a chaotic scene.
Eyewitnesses, cited by the Khaleej Times, said the ride’s support pole recoiled violently, striking some passengers. Others were injured after falling from their seats during the collapse. The Taif Governorate has announced an official investigation into the cause of the failure and said the park’s operations have been suspended. This incident adds to a growing list of amusement ride accidents worldwide, including a similar incident in Ecuador in 2023 and a fatal fall from a roller coaster in Delhi, India in April 2025.
The accident at Green Mountain Park has raised questions about the safety protocols and maintenance practices of amusement parks, particularly in regions where such rides are becoming increasingly popular. While there is no direct financial impact reported from this incident, it highlights the need for stricter regulatory oversight in the entertainment industry. The government’s swift response in suspending operations and launching an investigation signals a commitment to addressing safety concerns, although the long-term implications for the tourism sector remain to be seen.