Health Insurance for Expats in Saudi Arabia – 2025 Guide

Introduction

Living and working in Saudi Arabia as an expat comes with many benefits, but navigating the healthcare system—especially health insurance—can be confusing. Since health insurance is mandatory for all expatriates in the Kingdom, it’s essential to understand how the system works, what’s covered, and which providers offer the best services in 2025.

This guide explains everything you need to know about health insurance for expats in Saudi Arabia, including legal requirements, types of coverage, costs, and how to choose the right plan.

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Is Health Insurance Mandatory for Expats in KSA?

Yes. Under Saudi labor law and the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance (CCHI) regulations:

• Every expat working in the private sector must be covered by a valid health insurance policy issued by a CCHI-approved provider.

• Employers are responsible for providing health insurance for employees and their dependents (spouse + children).

• No Iqama (residency permit) or renewal is possible without active insurance.

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What Does Health Insurance Typically Cover?

Most standard expat insurance plans include:

✅ In-Patient Care

• Hospital stays

• Surgeries

• Emergency treatment

✅ Out-Patient Services

• Consultations with general practitioners and specialists

• Diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, blood tests)

• Medications and prescriptions

✅ Maternity and Newborn Care

• Antenatal checkups

• Delivery (normal and cesarean)

• Postnatal care

• Incubator and NICU (limits may apply)

✅ Emergency Dental Care

• Usually limited to pain relief and extractions

✅ Ambulance Services

• Ground ambulance to nearest approved hospital

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What’s Not Typically Covered?

• Cosmetic or elective procedures (unless medically necessary)

• Vision and dental beyond emergency needs (unless add-ons are purchased)

• Pre-existing conditions (may require waiting periods or special underwriting)

• Mental health treatment (limited coverage or not included in basic plans)

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How Much Does Health Insurance Cost in Saudi Arabia?

While the employer usually pays, here’s an overview of average costs for reference:

Note: Prices vary by provider, age, dependents, and company deals.

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Top Health Insurance Providers for Expats in Saudi Arabia (2025)

1. Bupa Arabia

• Largest provider with premium and executive expat plans

• 24/7 support and mobile app

• Extensive hospital network

2. Tawuniya

• Strong market presence

• Great for families and corporate coverage

• Offers bilingual (Arabic/English) support

3. MedGulf

• Affordable, compliant with CCHI

• Fast claims process and good outpatient coverage

4. Allianz Saudi Fransi

• Ideal for European and high-income expats

• Offers international coverage and remote claims

5. AXA Cooperative (now GIG Gulf)

• Popular among multinationals

• Flexible coverage with dental, vision, and maternity add-ons

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How to Get or Renew Health Insurance in KSA

✅ Step 1: Choose a CCHI-Approved Provider

Only insurance companies approved by the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance are legally authorized to provide expat health policies.

✅ Step 2: Submit Required Documents

• Iqama copy

• Passport copy

• Employer NOC (if needed)

• Family members' IDs (for dependents)

✅ Step 3: Get the Policy Certificate

This is linked directly to your Absher and Iqama system for residency status and renewal.

✅ Step 4: Use Your Insurance Card

• Present at clinics and hospitals for direct billing

• Use app or website to check hospital network

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Choosing the Right Plan: Tips for Expats

• Check the hospital network: Make sure your preferred clinic/hospital is included.

• Understand the co-payments: Many outpatient visits require you to pay 10–20% upfront.

• Add-on maternity and dental: These are not usually in base plans—ask specifically if needed.

• Get full family coverage: Make sure spouse and children are listed if applicable.

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Using Healthcare Services in Saudi Arabia

• Appointments are often booked via app or phone

• Waiting times at top hospitals can be long—choose VIP plans if speed is crucial

• Pharmacies usually accept e-prescriptions from clinics directly

• Emergency care is available 24/7, but make sure the hospital is in your network

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FAQs – Health Insurance for Expats in KSA

Q: Is health insurance mandatory for children and spouses?
Yes, employers must provide insurance for all dependents under the sponsor’s Iqama.

Q: Can I choose my own insurer as an employee?
No. Your employer selects the provider. However, you can buy an additional private policy if needed.

Q: Is mental health covered?
Basic plans may not cover it, but premium plans might. Confirm before enrolling.

Q: Can I upgrade my plan personally?
Yes, you can pay extra out-of-pocket for enhanced personal coverage if your employer’s plan is limited.

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Conclusion

Health insurance in Saudi Arabia is an essential, legally required safety net for all expats. While your employer typically handles the basics, understanding what’s covered—and what’s not—can help you avoid costly surprises and ensure proper care for yourself and your family. In 2025, with increasing digital access, wide provider networks, and optional add-ons, finding the right plan is easier than ever for Arabic-speaking and international residents alike.