Healthcare and Health Insurance in Saudi Arabia

Summary: The quality of medical care in Saudi Arabia is generally considered to be on par with the United States. Saudi Arabia has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. Emergency services are generally reliable and efficient, with ambulances available to respond to medical emergencies. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 997 or 112 from any phone.

How are healthcare services Saudi Arabia?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Saudi Arabia, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Saudi Arabia are comprehensive and comprehensive public healthcare system is available to Saudi citizens and foreign residents. The public healthcare system is accredited with international standards and includes primary health care, specialist care, hospital in-patient services, and preventative care, among other services. The quality of public healthcare services is generally high, with state-of-the-art facilities and expert staff. The main public provider of healthcare services is the Saudi Ministry of Health. Foreign residents in Saudi Arabia do have access to the public healthcare system, however, some additional fees may apply. Expats in Saudi Arabia who are employees of a Saudi company may be entitled to access public healthcare services for free, or for a discounted rate, depending on the regulations and their employer’s policies. Additionally, foreign residents may also purchase private health insurance plans from private insurance companies, though these plans usually carry high premiums and do not offer the same level of coverage as the public healthcare system," said one expat living in Saudi Arabia.

"If you need medical care, go back to the US or to Europe, if you can afford it. Both medical and dental care are substandard. If you can find doctors trained in the US, that is no assurance that they are qualified. The licensing program and qualifications are sketchy, at best," mentioned one expat in Riyadh.

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What are medical services in Saudi Arabia like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Saudi Arabia, they replied:

"Saudi Arabia offers a wide range of health care services throughout most of the country. The facilities range from well equipped hospitals to primary care centers and clinics. The government of Saudi Arabia supports the healthcare system and free services are available for those who cannot pay for medical care. It is also possible for citizens to receive health insurance through the Saudi Arabian Social Security Organization. Many of the hospitals in Saudi Arabia provide excellent medical care, offering the latest treatments and accessible medical technology. Specialized centers focus on providing specialized medical services. Saudi Arabia also has a strong emphasis on preventive healthcare and vaccinations are available at an affordable price. Furthermore many hospitals offer specialized services such as Geriatrics, Pediatrics and Mental Health. All clinicians and members of the healthcare staff must meet the high standards set by the Ministry of Health," said one expat living in Saudi Arabia.

"In general I am satisfied with it, however sometimes I feel like they may not know what is wrong with me they make things up," mentioned one expat in Jeddah.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Saudi Arabia?

"Healthcare in Saudi Arabia is generally considered to be of very high quality, but it can be expensive at times. Private hospitals are usually more costly than public hospitals, as they provide more luxurious facilities. Health insurance in Saudi Arabia is also expensive, as premiums must be paid in order to be eligible to receive healthcare services. Those without health insurance may find the high fees associated with treatments and hospital visits unaffordable," commented one expat living in Saudi Arabia.

"My sponsor always paid for my insurance. I ended paying an extra amount for higher end insurance so I could go the Kingdom Hospital, and found out that the medical staff there are not adequately trained," wrote one expat.

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What are emergency services like in Saudi Arabia?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Saudi Arabia wrote:

"Emergency services in Saudi Arabia are generally quite reliable. Ambulance services, first responders, and emergency medical technicians are widely available and always ready to respond to a medical emergency. If you or someone else needs medical assistance, you can call for an ambulance by dialing 997. A medical team will arrive quickly and provide the necessary care," wrote an expat living in Saudi Arabia.

"I used Kingdom Hospital, purportedly one of the best, if not the best. It was substandard. I also went to Specialized Medical Center. The staff were even less qualified. Please be careful with your health. I ended up coming back to the US for medical care," said an expat in Riyadh.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The cities of Riyadh and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia are home to some of the most comprehensive medical specialist networks in the country. The Eastern Province, including the cities of Damman and Al Khobar, is also known for its excellent selection ofmedical specialists. Further, the cities of Taif, Medina, Mecca, and Buraydah are home to many experienced medical specialists. Additionally, there is an excellent network of medical specialists in the Asir region, including the cities of Abha, Khamis Mushait and Najran," said an expat in Saudi Arabia.

"I returned to the US this past summer so I could get treatment. Outstanding standards in the US," commented one expat living in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

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Are common prescription medications available in Saudi Arabia?

"Yes, many common prescription medications are available in Saudi Arabia. However, the availability of certain medications may depend on the country of origin and the type of medication. Additionally, there may be certain restrictions in place, such as the need for special authorization or the need to obtain a prescription from an approved doctor in order to obtain a particular medication. In general, however, medications used to treat common ailments and those used to maintain overall health are widely available in Saudi Arabia," wrote one expat.

"You can get anything at any corner pharmacy without any prescription. the exception are birth control pills or homonal replacement therapy. They are cheap," commented one expat who moved to Riyadh.

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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Saudi Arabia?

"The medical care in Saudi Arabia is largely top-notch, with many hospitals that have well-equipped facilities and the latest medical technology. Treatment is usually up to international standards and there are many specialists in various health sectors. Staff are well-trained and there is a strong emphasis on providing high-quality medical services. The country is also taking steps to increase access to care and health insurance coverage. Overall, Saudi Arabia has an excellent medical care system in place," remarked one expat in Saudi Arabia.

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As a foreigner living in Saudi Arabia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, foreigners living in Saudi Arabia have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Saudi Arabia is made up of many hospital and primary care clinics. These health facilities are mainly spread throughout the country in major cities and towns, though a large number of specialised hospitals are located in the major urban centres as well. The quality of public healthcare services is generally good and they are very affordable according to local standards. In addition to the public sector, there are numerous private clinics and hospitals that provide healthcare services to expatriates and locals alike," said one expat.

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What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Saudi Arabia if they have access to public healthcare in Saudi Arabia. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Saudi Arabia during the pandemic have predominantly been positive. The country has taken steps to improve access to high-quality healthcare, with doctors and nurses receiving additional training in preparation for any COVID-19 related medical issues. There has been an increased emphasis on preventive measures such as physical distancing, wearing masks and proper hygiene, in addition to detailed tracking of patients who may have come into contact with the virus. In response to the pandemic, many hospitals have opened specialized Covid-19 wards, and most facilities offer comprehensive testing and treatment services. Telemedicine has also been implemented, enabling patients to access medical advice and consultations from the safety of their homes. The government has made healthcare a top priority, providing support to citizens and expats to ensure that they can access the medical care they need," said one expat living in Saudi Arabia.

"Once a system was established, it seems to be running quite well. However, I am not a fan of being forced into a government hospital b/c private hospitals won't take my SAICO insurance to treat COVID," mentioned one expat in Jeddah.

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What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Saudi Arabia?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Saudi Arabia about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"1. Make sure you are aware of local laws and customs that relate to pregnancy and childbirth before you begin. For example, pregnant women are not allowed to work in Saudi Arabia and residency for the baby must be obtained. 2. Get in touch with local support agencies, such as Moms in Saudi, to gain more information and advice from other expats who have gone through the same experience. 3. Research the health care system available in the community and seek advice from a qualified doctor before committing to any specific provider or health care plan. 4. Research birth and post-natal care options to ensure you have a positive experience and that your needs are taken care of. 5. Consider your financial planning- hospital bills can be costly and expats should ensure they have a valid health insurance that covers childbirth and post-natal care. 6. Get in touch with local mothers groups who offer both social and practical support- they are a great resource for advice and can provide a support network during the pregnancy and after birth," said one expat in Saudi Arabia.

"Go to one of the large private hospitals and ask to see the most popular OB/GYN on the staff. If you don't like the doc you get, ask for another one or go to another hospital. A good technique, actually, is to ask a doctor you trust who s/he recommends. Who delivered her (or his wife's) children? Best, of course, to go Home, if at all possible. It's also important for the baby to be born in the USA, because otherwise the baby cannot confer US citizenship on his or her children, if they are born abroad," wrote a person living in Jeddah.

Are healthcare services good in Saudi Arabia?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Saudi Arabia. They wrote:

"In Saudi Arabia, healthcare services are generally of very high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system which is government financed and supported. Public healthcare is provided free of charge at government hospitals and clinics. Private healthcare is also available and is subsidized in part by the government. There is a wide range of specialized medical services available within the country and a good selection of healthcare professionals. In addition, the country has signed bilateral agreements with many western countries in order to provide access to advanced medical technology," explained one expat.

"In Arab countries, you do NOT! In Europe, you DO. In America, you DO. In South America, you DON'T. in China, they let you ROT. In Japan, they send you to the USA :-)," said one person in Al-Khobar.

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Saudi Arabia

How are healthcare services Saudi Arabia?

What are medical services in Saudi Arabia like?

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Saudi Arabia?

What are emergency services like in Saudi Arabia?

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

Are common prescription medications available in Saudi Arabia?

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Saudi Arabia?

As a foreigner living in Saudi Arabia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Saudi Arabia?

Are healthcare services good in Saudi Arabia?

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