The program follows an ambitious project by health institutions in the Kingdom including the Ministry of Health and the Saudi Food & Drug Authority (SFDA) to ensure the availability of safe blood for everyone in Saudi Arabia.
"A large number of people including top Lulu executives queued up to donate their blood on Saturday," said Shehim Mohammed Unni, Lulu's regional director.
Shehim said that there was a need to raise awareness about donating blood and available blood transfusion services in Saudi Arabia. According to a SFDA report, the Kingdom needs a more consistent supply in its blood banks. At the moment, there are 253 blood banks in the country, including 50 in private hospitals.
Shehim pointed out that the blood donation campaign was preceded by the opening of a series of cultural programs including a drum and sword dance by a troupe of young Saudis.
More than 3,000 customers enjoyed the sword dance, said Abdul Saleem V. K, Lulu's regional manager for the central region.
The cultural segment of the program was inaugurated by Gen. Mohammed Al-Ghamdi, a top police official, in the presence of a large number of spectators at Lulu Hypermarket Friday night.
A traditional Arabic souk and a face-painting corner were also featured.