Saudi Arabia Announces New Plan for National State-Funded Health Insurance by 2026

Saudi Arabia Announces New Plan for National State-Funded Health Insurance by 2026

Saudi Arabia’s Health Minister, Fahad Al-Jalajel, has revealed the kingdom’s plans to introduce a state-funded insurance programme that will provide comprehensive coverage for all citizens by 2026.

Speaking at the Health Forum in Riyadh, Al-Jalajel highlighted the key features of the National Insurance programme, emphasising its unique aspects, as per a report by Saudi Gazette.

The National Insurance programme stands out for being state-funded and does not require annual renewal, ensuring coverage for a lifetime.

Unlike many insurance plans, this initiative will not have a specific ceiling and will eliminate the need for prior approvals, making it more accessible and efficient for beneficiaries.

Addressing a global audience, Al-Jalajel projected a significant increase in private health insurance in the coming years.

He attributed this growth to factors such as population expansion, holders of premium residency, and a rising number of tourists visiting Saudi Arabia.

The transformation in the healthcare sector, according to Al-Jalajel, is designed to accommodate the growing population while empowering the private sector.

He expects that the private sector’s role in providing health services will increase from 20 percent to 50 percent.

Moreover, Al-Jalajel revealed substantial investment opportunities in the health sector, estimating a total investment of SAR330 billion by 2030.

Starting from 2024, all health clusters will