Crown Prince opened new Stavanger University Hospital
Crown Prince Haakon cut the ribbon and officially opened one of Norway's largest and most modern hospital projects.
On Saturday, January 18, 2026, Crown Prince Haakon performed the official opening of the new Stavanger University Hospital at Ullandhaug. The hospital is one of the country's largest construction projects and represents an important step in the development of healthcare services in the region.
Crown Prince Haakon during the official opening of Stavanger University Hospital. Photo: The Royal Court
The flight from Oslo to Sola was delayed due to bad weather, causing many expectant children and adults to wait. When the Crown Prince finally arrived, he apologized with a twinkle in his eye: 'This has been one of the largest construction projects since Gardermoen. It seems fitting to say sorry we were late!'
In his speech, the Crown Prince emphasized that hospitals are about people: 'When we build hospitals, we also build communities. It's more than beautiful buildings – it's when people meet people that it becomes a hospital.'
Crown Prince Haakon especially thanked the staff, mentioning that over 100 professions contribute to operations, from porters and cleaners to healthcare workers. 'They contribute to ensuring that 400,000 residents here in South Rogaland have a world-class hospital,' he said.
The new university hospital at Ullandhaug covers approximately 125,000 square meters and is the third largest emergency hospital in the country. Together with the University of Stavanger, it forms the largest knowledge and educational institution in the region. The hospital is built to support comprehensive patient pathways, efficient operations and good working conditions.
During the visit, the Crown Prince received a briefing on the hospital's functions and services, met with management and staff, and was given a tour of the facilities designed for future needs in patient care, research and education. He also left his handprint at the children's and youth reception.
After the hospital opening, the Crown Prince visited Laerdal Medical, a company that develops medical simulation equipment and life-saving training solutions. The company is internationally recognized for its work in simulation and patient safety.
Crown Prince Haakon during the official opening of Stavanger University Hospital. Photo: The Royal Court
The flight from Oslo to Sola was delayed due to bad weather, causing many expectant children and adults to wait. When the Crown Prince finally arrived, he apologized with a twinkle in his eye: 'This has been one of the largest construction projects since Gardermoen. It seems fitting to say sorry we were late!'
In his speech, the Crown Prince emphasized that hospitals are about people: 'When we build hospitals, we also build communities. It's more than beautiful buildings – it's when people meet people that it becomes a hospital.'
Crown Prince Haakon especially thanked the staff, mentioning that over 100 professions contribute to operations, from porters and cleaners to healthcare workers. 'They contribute to ensuring that 400,000 residents here in South Rogaland have a world-class hospital,' he said.
The new university hospital at Ullandhaug covers approximately 125,000 square meters and is the third largest emergency hospital in the country. Together with the University of Stavanger, it forms the largest knowledge and educational institution in the region. The hospital is built to support comprehensive patient pathways, efficient operations and good working conditions.
During the visit, the Crown Prince received a briefing on the hospital's functions and services, met with management and staff, and was given a tour of the facilities designed for future needs in patient care, research and education. He also left his handprint at the children's and youth reception.
After the hospital opening, the Crown Prince visited Laerdal Medical, a company that develops medical simulation equipment and life-saving training solutions. The company is internationally recognized for its work in simulation and patient safety.