RIYADH — Saudi Arabia is making significant strides in healthcare access and quality, recently achieving a 10th-place ranking among G20 nations in the World Health Organization and World Bank’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Service Coverage Index. This progress in universal health coverage demonstrates the Kingdom’s commitment to improving the well-being of its citizens and residents. The findings, released in the Tracking Universal Health Coverage: Global Monitoring Report 2025, highlight the effectiveness of ongoing health sector reforms.
The report indicates Saudi Arabia’s score rose to 83 points, a substantial increase of nine points over the last two years. This improvement positions the nation within the group of countries recognized for having a high level of health coverage, signaling a positive trajectory in public health outcomes. The assessment was conducted using a standardized set of indicators to measure access to essential health services.
Saudi Arabia’s Progress in Universal Health Coverage
The Kingdom’s advancement in the UHC index is directly linked to its ambitious Vision 2030 plan, which prioritizes citizen health and well-being as key pillars of national development. This comprehensive strategy involves substantial investment in infrastructure, technology, and human capital within the healthcare system. The focus extends beyond simply treating illness to proactively preventing it and promoting healthier lifestyles.
According to the report, the gains are attributable to a multi-pronged approach. Strengthening primary healthcare services has been a central tenet, ensuring more people have access to basic medical care. Additionally, the expansion of early screening programs for prevalent diseases is contributing to earlier detection and more effective treatment.
Key Initiatives Driving Improvement
Several specific initiatives are credited with accelerating progress. The Ministry of Health has emphasized enhancing the readiness of healthcare facilities to meet the growing demands of the population. This includes upgrades to equipment, improved staffing levels, and the implementation of best practices in patient care.
A significant driver of change has been the rapid digital transformation of the healthcare sector. Platforms like Sehhaty, a comprehensive health portal, and the Seha Virtual Hospital are expanding access to care, particularly in remote areas. These technologies facilitate telemedicine consultations, remote monitoring of patients, and streamlined access to medical records.
The Ministry of Health also reports a focus on preventative care, aiming to reduce the burden of chronic diseases. This includes public health campaigns promoting healthy diets, regular exercise, and awareness of risk factors. These efforts are designed to foster a culture of wellness and empower individuals to take control of their health.
The positive impact of these reforms is already visible in key health indicators. Average life expectancy in Saudi Arabia has increased from approximately 74 years in 2016 to nearly 79.7 years in 2025. This upward trend brings the Kingdom closer to achieving the Vision 2030 target of 80 years, demonstrating the tangible benefits of the national health strategy.
Health Minister Fahd Al-Jalajel stated that the achievement reflects the successful implementation of Vision 2030 and the unwavering support of the Kingdom’s leadership. He emphasized that the improvements in international health indicators are a direct result of focused efforts on prevention, primary care, digitization, and service development across all regions.
Al-Jalajel further pledged continued progress towards greater efficiency and sustainability, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a leader in global healthcare. The Ministry is actively working to integrate advanced technologies and innovative care models to further enhance the quality and accessibility of services.
The Kingdom’s progress in healthcare access is noteworthy considering the challenges faced by many nations in achieving universal health coverage. Factors such as geographic disparities, socioeconomic inequalities, and limited resources often hinder efforts to provide equitable access to essential health services. Saudi Arabia’s success demonstrates that strategic investment and comprehensive reforms can overcome these obstacles.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Health is expected to continue refining its national health strategy, with a particular emphasis on addressing emerging health challenges and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the system. Further expansion of digital health solutions and increased collaboration with international partners are also anticipated. The next report on the UHC index is scheduled for release in 2027, providing a benchmark for future progress and allowing for a comparative assessment of global efforts in achieving health equity. Monitoring the impact of ongoing reforms and adapting to evolving healthcare needs will be crucial for maintaining the positive momentum observed in recent years.
The continued focus on preventative medicine and early detection programs will likely be a key area of development. While life expectancy is rising, addressing the prevalence of non-communicable diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, remains a priority. The effectiveness of these programs and their contribution to overall health outcomes will be closely watched in the coming years.
