Sudanese surgeon, wife died of suffocation while sleeping in car in Riyadh

Authorities say the couple had left the AC running while resting in a parked vehicle

Last updated: August 06, 2025 | 18:08

Khitam Al Amir

1 MIN READ

Dr. Abdul Aziz Idris

Supplied

Dubai: A Sudanese surgeon and his wife died of suffocation while sleeping in their car in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, local media reported on Wednesday.

According to Al Ekhbariya TV, Dr. Abdul Aziz Idris, a surgeon at Shaqra Hospital—located approximately 190 kilometres northwest of Riyadh—was on his way to work when he and his wife stopped to rest.

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The couple reportedly fell asleep in their parked vehicle with the air conditioning running, a detail authorities believe may have contributed to their deaths. They were later transported to a hospital in Riyadh, where both were pronounced dead.

The medical community at Shaqra Hospital expressed deep sorrow over the sudden loss, remembering Dr. Idris as a dedicated physician known for his professionalism, compassion, and tireless service to patients. Colleagues and staff paid tribute to his legacy and extended condolences to his family and loved ones.

No official cause has yet been released, but local reports suggest a buildup of carbon monoxide may be responsible. The incident has prompted renewed warnings about the dangers of sleeping in enclosed vehicles. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths is ongoing

Khitam Al Amir

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.

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