Saudi Arabia is working on enhancing its medical tourism sector through partnerships with emerging markets. However, it is expected to face tough competition from established players like Thailand, the UAE, and Malaysia.

Collaborations to Improve Healthcare Services and Infrastructure

The country is focusing on collaborations to improve healthcare services and infrastructure, which are crucial for attracting international patients seeking medical care abroad.

Memorandum of Understanding with Morocco

Last August, Saudi Arabia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Morocco, emphasizing collaboration in various areas such as research, digital health, therapeutic development, pandemic preparedness, and preventative medicine.

Partnership with Thailand

A similar agreement was also established with Thailand in January, focusing on knowledge sharing related to hospital management and wellness services.

Investing in Tourism Infrastructure

To support its medical tourism ambitions, Saudi Arabia is investing in improving its tourism infrastructure, including accommodation options. The country aims to attract 150 million arrivals by 2030.

Challenges in the Medical Tourism Market

Despite these efforts, Saudi Arabia's medical tourism market is projected to lag behind other emerging markets like Thailand, the UAE, and Malaysia, which have established themselves as leaders in the sector. These countries have well-developed infrastructure and a reputation for excellence in healthcare services.

Future Outlook and Strategy

Saudi Arabia is still in the early stages of developing its medical tourism industry and will need time for its strategic partnerships and infrastructure improvements to translate into a significant increase in global demand for its medical services. Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia's approach to medical tourism will likely involve continued collaboration with other countries and a focus on enhancing its healthcare capabilities. The emphasis on research and digital health suggests a forward-thinking strategy aimed at leveraging technology to improve patient outcomes and streamline healthcare delivery.

Improving Quality of Care and Patient Experience

To compete effectively with more established markets, Saudi Arabia will need to improve the quality of care, expand treatment options, and enhance the overall patient experience. By prioritizing these areas, Saudi Arabia can position itself as a viable alternative for international patients seeking medical treatment.