Health and Protection Guide in Saudi Arabia

Many expats move to Saudi Arabia, not because of its culture or lifestyle, rather because of its economic power and promising job opportunities. There is a long list of things that you need to prepare when moving abroad and let us remind you about the most important of all: health care. Yes, you can say that a roof over your head and food on the table along with other necessities are far more urgent needs compared to insurance. Let’s put it this way: in case you get ill, and you are unprepared, it will affect everything that you have and can drain your savings. But that won't happen as long as you have protection and here are some information on how you can secure your health in Saudi Arabia. 

Getting Insurance 

Medical coverage is usually a benefit of every expat being relocated to Saudi Arabia so it is more likely that you have one from your company. Always feel free to ask the Human Resource department regarding your health care and if your dependents are covered as well. Also, your employer should be accredited by the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency, a branch of the government that ensures all insurance companies in Saudi Arabia is operating legally.

 Aside from the insurance from your employer, you can also get different types of policy that’ll protect your finances and properties as well. You can choose between an international broker such as Clements Worldwide, who offers auto, home, health and life coverage and a local company like Tawuniya, which is considered to be the largest insurer and re-insurer in Saudi Arabia. 

Importance of Insurance 

Dengue and malaria fever are prevalent in Saudi Arabia especially in the areas of Jizan, Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, and Riyadh. These are types of illness that can be acquired from mosquito bites so it is best that you always carry an insect repellent and keep your environment clean. Another common health risk that affects expats like you is heat related. Since you are just adjusting to the hot climate of the country, you have to protect yourself from direct sun exposure so that you can prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke. One last thing that you need to be aware of is sandstorm which can cause respiratory problems to you and your kids. 

Medical bills in Saudi Arabia can be very expensive especially if you do not have any insurance. We are not just talking about emergency services or confinement but preventive treatments as well. Having a good health care can cover the fees for vaccinations, routine check-ups, laboratory tests and physical exams. These procedures can help you a lot in maintaining good health. Hence, lower chances of getting seriously ill. 

Local Insurance 

You will be pleased to know that the standard of public health care in Saudi Arabia is at par with United States and other Western European countries. All public and private hospitals are under the supervision of the Ministry of Health, who ensures that all citizens and expats in the Kingdom will receive the health assistance that they deserve. You will immediately feel the high quality of medical service in Saudi Arabia since there are no long wait list and hospitals like the King Fahd Medical City are manned with skilled doctors from different parts of the globe. In the case of an emergency, you have to dial 997 to get an immediate response from an ambulance, the police, and fire department. 

Because of the nation’s state of the art public and private hospitals, you should also expect that the cost of medical services can be really pricey if you do not have coverage. It is best for you to get an international insurance that’ll help you with the fees and other costs of hospitalisation. You will be surprised that aside from the peace of mind, having insurance can significantly keep you from hurting your finances.