Healthcare in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system in 2025 is a Vision 2030 cornerstone, delivering universal, high-quality care to a growing population and expatriate community. With substantial government investment, the sector is transforming rapidly. This article examines the healthcare landscape and key government initiatives.

Healthcare System Overview

The healthcare system combines public and private providers, serving 36 million residents, including 12 million expatriates. Public hospitals, managed by the Ministry of Health (MOH), provide free or subsidized care to citizens, while private facilities like Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Hospital serve expatriates and affluent Saudis. The sector employs 550,000 professionals, with increasing local talent through Saudization.

Government Initiatives

The Health Sector Transformation Program drives improvements: 

Privatization and PPPs: USD 66 billion is allocated for public-private partnerships (PPPs), privatizing 290 hospitals and 2,300 primary care centers by 2030 to enhance efficiency. 

Digital Health: The MOH’s Sehhaty app, used by 20 million, offers telemedicine and health records. AI diagnostics and blockchain secure medical data. 

Primary Care Expansion: Over 1,000 new centers focus on preventive care, addressing chronic diseases like diabetes, affecting 25% of adults. 

Medical Cities: King Faisal Medical City in Asir, with 4,000 beds, reduces regional disparities. 

Saudization and Training: Targeting 70% local professionals by 2030, supported by training at King Saud University.

Impact and Challenges

Life expectancy has risen to 76 years, and infant mortality dropped to 5.6 per 1,000 births. Telemedicine reaches 80% of rural areas. Challenges include a shortage of specialized doctors and rising demand. International recruitment and medical tourism hubs in Riyadh address these gaps.

Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system in 2025 advances through privatization, digitalization, and workforce development. Vision 2030’s initiatives ensure accessible, robust care, benefiting citizens and expatriates despite ongoing challenges.