The punitive measures included dismissal from service, salary cuts and transfers to border regions, said Ibrahim Al-Haji, director of public relations and media at the directorate.

The disciplinary action was based on the recommendations of a committee that investigated the incident.

The committee started its investigations after video clips of the farewell party appeared on YouTube. Hospital employees had organized the farewell party five years ago when some of their colleagues left the hospital at the end of their service.

Al-Haji said the dance party was conducted without the knowledge of the hospital management.

The directorate has issued a circular to all hospitals and health centers banning all parties that might go against the regulations of the Ministry of Health.

The directorate urged the concerned departments and agencies to monitor hospitals and health clinics, and report such violations to the directorate.