Pendulum ride snaps mid-air at Saudi Arabia’s amusement park, injures 23; video goes viral

In the footage, passengers can be heard laughing and cheering moments before a sharp cracking sound pierces the air, followed by a thunderous crash. One part of the structure even appears to launch into the air as chaos ensues. Bystanders scream, some rush to help the injured, while others run in panic.

Watch the video:

Shocking footage from an amusement park in Taif, eastern Saudi Arabia, shows a ride called “360” collapsing while full of people. Dozens were injured, some seriously. pic.twitter.com/aiweHPczjs

— ME24 – Middle East 24 (@MiddleEast_24) July 31, 2025

Eyewitnesses told Fox News that even though riders were strapped in, many were seriously hurt. The force of the collapsing structure caused the central pole to spring back with intense recoil, adding to the injuries. Emergency teams administered first aid on-site before transferring victims to nearby hospitals for further treatment.

Local authorities have since cordoned off the area, and an official investigation is underway. According to Arab News, Prince Saud bin Nahar bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, the governor of the region, has ordered the immediate closure of the resort pending a full inquiry.

Online, the disturbing footage has triggered an outpouring of reactions. “New fear unlocked,” wrote one user. “No amount of money can convince me to get on such rides,” commented another. A third said, “What in the Final Destination”.

Sadly, such incidents aren’t isolated. Earlier this year in Assam, India, a man named Bubu Malakar fell from a ride at the Sitala Puja Mela in Lumding after his safety harness reportedly gave way.