Tenerife, Spain – Concerns are growing for Norway’s King Harald V, 89, who has been hospitalized on the Spanish island of Tenerife. The Royal Court announced Tuesday evening that the monarch was admitted to Hospital Universitario Hospiten Sur due to an infection and dehydration, though his condition is described as stable given the circumstances.
The hospitalization comes shortly after King Harald celebrated his 89th birthday on Saturday, a milestone traditionally marked with travel abroad. For decades, the King has often spent his birthday week during the winter holiday period at a warmer destination. This year’s celebration in Tenerife is now overshadowed by health concerns, prompting well-wishes from across Norway and internationally.
The Royal Court stated that the King’s personal physician is en route to Tenerife to support the local medical team. This underscores the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to providing the best possible care for the aging monarch, who has faced health challenges in recent years. King Harald and Queen Sonja, 88, are currently enjoying a winter break on the island.
A History of Recent Health Concerns
This isn’t the first time King Harald’s health has been under scrutiny. In 2024, during a trip to Malaysia, the King experienced a severe health episode requiring the temporary implantation of a pacemaker. He was subsequently flown back to Oslo with a specialized medical team, where the temporary device was replaced with a permanent one, according to reporting from the Associated Press.