Abstract

Healthcare in Saudi Arabia has shown significant growth over the past ten years, raising questions about its long-term sustainability. This narrative review examines the key factors driving the increasing cost of healthcare in the Kingdom, drawing on empirical and policy-related literature published between 2020 and 2025. The analysis highlights that changes in population demographics, a high rate of chronic diseases, and evolving lifestyles have led to a greater need for healthcare services and more complex treatments. Additionally, variations in medical and technological practices have contributed to higher financial costs in the short term due to the need for infrastructure, equipment, and staff training. Policy reforms under Vision 2030, such as privatisation, insurance restructuring, and decentralisation, have also transformed how healthcare is funded and managed. The review also points out the limitations of existing data and research methodologies and suggests that implementing a national cost tracking system and integrated evaluation frameworks would be beneficial. Overall, the paper concludes that the Saudi healthcare system is undergoing a necessary but costly transformation. Sustainable cost control will depend on promoting preventive health measures, making smart investments in technology, and fostering a balanced relationship between the government and non-governmental sectors. These efforts are essential to ensuring a high-quality, well-coordinated, and sustainable healthcare system for the future.

Key words: Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia, healthcare costs; digital health; artificial intelligence.