The healthcare system in Mecca, consists of both public and private hospitals and clinics. The quality of healthcare services varies, with private hospitals generally offering better facilities and services than public ones.
Saudi Arabia’s Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in Saudi Arabia is called the Ministry of Health (MOH). It provides free healthcare services to Saudi citizens, but foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are also allowed to use the public healthcare system. However, many expats prefer to use private hospitals due to better facilities and services. Public hospitals in Mecca are often crowded, and the quality of care may not be up to the standards expected by foreigners. For serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, people generally recommend using private hospitals in Mecca. Private hospitals offer a higher standard of care, with more modern facilities and better-trained staff.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Mecca
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Mecca include:
- Al Noor Specialist Hospital (public) – located in the Al Aziziyah district
- King Faisal Hospital (public) – located in the Al Mesfalah district
- Al Hada Military Hospital (public) – located in the Al Hada district
- Dr. Bakhsh Hospital (private) – located in the Al Aziziyah district
- Al Afia Clinic (private) – located in the Al Aziziyah district
If expats in Mecca require specialized medical care or surgeries that are not available locally, they may need to travel to nearby cities such as Jeddah, which is approximately 85 kilometers (53 miles) away by car.
Emergency Services in Mecca
There are ambulance services in Mecca, and they can be reached by dialing 997. However, response times may vary depending on traffic and other factors. In some cases, it may be faster to arrange private transportation to the nearest hospital or clinic.
Health Insurance Companies in Mecca
Some popular private health insurance companies in Mecca include Bupa Arabia, Tawuniya, and Medgulf. These companies offer various health insurance plans catering to different needs and budgets. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers, depending on their preferences and requirements.
