Overview of the Healthcare System in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has one of the most advanced and reliable healthcare systems in the region. Whether you’re an expat working in Riyadh or living with your family in Jeddah, you’ll find that access to medical care is comprehensive and well-regulated.
The Saudi healthcare system operates under two key authorities:
- Council of Health Insurance (CHI) – chi.gov.sa
- Ministry of Health (MOH) – moh.gov.sa
These authorities work together to ensure that every resident — including expatriates and their families — is covered under a reliable insurance framework. With this policy in place, expats can feel confident that their healthcare needs are supported by law.
Tip: Always carry your medical insurance card or keep a digital copy on your phone when visiting hospitals.
Mandatory Medical Insurance for Expats in Saudi Arabia
Under Saudi law, medical insurance for expats in Saudi Arabia is not optional — it’s a legal requirement. It is the duty of employers to ensure that their workers and dependents are covered. Without valid insurance, your Iqama (residency permit) cannot be renewed.
Your expat health insurance in Saudi Arabia card includes:
- Policy number
- Insurance provider
- Coverage network (hospitals, clinics, labs)
- 24-hour emergency contact number
Tip: You can verify your policy or track health insurance renewal at eservices.chi.gov.sa.
Types of Hospitals and Clinics
Saudi Arabia’s healthcare facilities are divided into three main categories:
| Type | Description | Examples |
| Government Hospitals | Free or low-cost; mainly for Saudi citizens but available for emergencies | King Fahad Medical City, MOH Hospitals |
| Private Hospitals | Modern facilities, faster service; covered by most medical insurance for expats in Saudi Arabia | Dallah, Saudi German, Al Hammadi, Sulaiman Al Habib |
| Specialized Clinics | Focused on dental, eye, maternity, and physiotherapy care | Magrabi Eye Center, Tadawi, NMC, etc. |
Tip: Always choose hospitals listed in your insurance network to avoid paying the full cost.
How to Use Your Health Insurance in Saudi Arabia
- Need your insurance card at the hospital reception.
- The hospital checks your eligibility via the CHI system.
- Pay only the co-payment (a small percentage, if applicable).
- For lab tests or X-rays, approvals may take a few minutes through your insurance provider.
- For emergencies, you can go directly for insurance approval follows automatically.
Emergency & Ambulance Services
- Dial 997 for ambulance services (available 24/7).
- Emergency care is provided first; insurance is processed later.
- Most hospitals have 24-hour emergency units equipped for critical care.
Tip: Save the emergency numbers of your nearest hospital and insurance hotline.
Maternity & Childcare
Maternity services are covered under most health insurance plans in Saudi Arabia. Coverage generally includes consultations, delivery, and postnatal checkups. Vaccinations for children are free at all government health centers.
Tip: Within ninety days after birth, register your newborn with your insurance company to guarantee ongoing coverage.
Pharmacies & Medicines
Pharmacies are easily accessible and often open late — some even 24/7.
- Prescription drugs require a doctor’s note.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are available for everyday needs.
- Popular chains include Al Nahdi, Tadawi, White Pharmacy, and Al-Dawaa.
Tip: Keep your old prescriptions; they’re helpful for follow-up visits and medication renewals.
Preventive Care & Health Programs
Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system focuses strongly on prevention. Many insurance plans include:
- Annual health checkups
- Dental cleanings
- Eye tests
- Fitness and wellness programs
Tip: Ask your HR or insurance provider about your preventive care benefits — many expats overlook these free services included in their health insurance package in Saudi Arabia.
Health Insurance Renewal Tips
Many expats forget to renew their insurance on time, which can delay Iqama renewal or medical coverage. Constantly monitor your health insurance renewal dates to avoid service interruptions.
- Renew at least one month before expiration.
- Confirm new policy details and hospital coverage networks.
- Update dependents’ records immediately after renewal.
Tip: Keep digital copies of your old and new policies to avoid confusion during hospital visits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Visiting hospitals outside your coverage network — you’ll pay full cost.
🚫 Ignoring your insurance renewal reminder.
🚫 Losing your insurance card or failing to store a digital version.
🚫 Skipping preventive health benefits already included in your plan.
Quick Arabic Words for Healthcare
| English | Arabic | Pronunciation |
| Hospital | مستشفى | Mustashfa |
| Doctor | طبيب | Tabeeb |
| Medicine | دواء | Dawa |
| Health Insurance | تأمين صحي | Ta’meen Sahhi |
| Appointment | موعد | Maw’id |
Stay Covered and Confident with Saudi Arabia’s Healthcare System
The healthcare system in Saudi Arabia is modern, efficient, and built to support both citizens and expats. Understanding how the medical insurance for expats works and ensures you’re always protected.
✅ Keep your insurance card handy
✅ Visit hospitals within your coverage network
✅ Renew your insurance before expiry
✅ Use preventive healthcare benefits
Taking care of your health lets you enjoy your life in Saudi Arabia with complete peace of mind.
