Nov 2, 2023
The Growth of Medical Tourism in the City and the Real Estate Developments Aimed at Accommodating Medical Travelers
What is medical tourism and healthcare tourism?
Medical tourism refers to traveling from one country to another to receive high-quality medical services. This type of tourism is common in various medical fields, such as cosmetic surgery, hair transplantation, rejuvenation, and others, which are basically considered non-essential medical services. On the other hand, healthcare tourism refers to people traveling to receive necessary medical services and treatments for their health conditions, which may not be available in their own countries.
What are the reasons that motivate people to engage in medical tourism?
● Seeking high quality healthcare.
● Cost savings, sometimes treatment costs are much cheaper in certain countries.
● Obtaining medical services quickly.
Healthcare Tourism in Riyadh:
Riyadh is a renowned destination for healthcare tourism. The Kingdom aims to be at the forefront of countries that attract people from around the world for medical tourism purposes. This is evident through the progressive plans aimed at improving real estate investments for healthcare tourism, besides promoting the growth of medical tourism and healthcare tourism in Riyadh, and throughout the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as a whole.
A wide range of healthcare hospitality centers and healthcare real estate are available in Riyadh, such as high-quality medical facilities that provide specialized medical services in various fields. The healthcare sector in Riyadh is characterized by modern medical hosting facilities, in addition to advanced health technologies, along with a specialized medical staff.
The Growth of Medical Tourism in Riyadh and Saudi Arabia:
The Kingdom aims to diversify its sources of national income, establishing its economy on multiple pillars. This has placed healthcare tourism at the forefront of its choices. Due to the Kingdom's significant advancements in the field of medical tourism, efforts are being made to encourage both local and foreign investors to capitalize in the healthcare sector by constructing hospitals and large healthcare centers equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, and finest medical staff from Arab and foreign nationalities. The healthcare sector in the Kingdom is the largest compared to other healthcare sectors in the Middle Eastern countries, with healthcare spending exceeding 150 billion Saudi Riyals, equivalent to 40 billion US dollars. Additionally, the Ministry has announced about 19 health projects, some of which have been completed, while others are still under construction.
Examples of Medical Facilities in Riyadh and Saudi Arabia:
● King Faisal Specialist Hospital: It is considered one of the best hospitals for medical travelers in the Kingdom. It ranks 76th among the top hospitals in the world, in addition to the free treatment it provides. This hospital is known for organ transplantation, cancer treatment, heart diseases, as well as genetic and neurological disorders.
● King Fahad Medical City: King Fahad Medical City is an integrated medical town that significantly contributes to the medical tourism growth in Riyadh. It serves as a role model for the development of real estate for medical tourism. It is one of the largest medical hospitality projects in the Kingdom and one of the largest medical complexes in the Middle East, representing the rapid advancements of Riyadh healthcare developments. Its ranking stands at 3140 worldwide.
The medical city comprises four hospitals: the general hospital, the specialized Gynecology hospital, obstetrics hospital and children's hospital. It has a capacity of approximately 1,200 beds. Annually, the medical city receives over 30,000 inpatient admissions and 500,000 outpatients. It also includes four medical centers: Diabetes Center, King Salman Center for Heart Diseases and Surgery, Oncology and Endocrine Center, and Neurosciences Center.
● Sulaiman Al Habib Hospital: It is one of the hospitals that support medical tourism in Riyadh and contribute to the growth of medical tourism. It is globally ranked at 5569, and it is one of the private hospitals in Riyadh. This medical group consists of several health centers, spread across three countries: Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. The hospital is known for its highly skilled medical staff and medical tourism infrastructure, including modern equipment and advanced technological devices, making it the best in supporting medical tourism in Riyadh.
● Kingdom Hospital: It is one of the largest medical facilities in Riyadh, providing specialized medical services in various fields.
● Al-Mana Hospital: It is a leading center in the field of cosmetic treatment and surgery.
● Al Habib Medical Hospital: It is a specialized hospital in the treatment and surgery of eye diseases.
Developing Real Estate for Hosting Patients in Riyadh:
Developing real estate for patient accommodation in Riyadh is a promising and in-demand field in the current market. There is an increasing need to secure properties for patients in order to provide comfortable and suitable accommodation for those receiving treatments in hospitals and medical centers in Riyadh.
steps to be followed to develop real estates related to this purpose:
● Find a suitable location: It is important to choose a location close to medical centers and important facilities.
● Market analysis: Conduct a deep market analysis to identify the needs and potential competition in the area.
● Design and development of the building: Work with engineers and designers to develop healthcare properties that meet the patients' needs. This includes designing safe and comfortable rooms with essential amenities, such as comfortable beds and private bathrooms.
● Provide essential services: Such as seating areas, dining facilities, elevators, and internet access.
● Adhere to health and safety standards: It is important to comply with health standards to ensure patient safety. There must be regular monitoring and maintenance of the property in order to avoid any potential health or safety problems in the building.
● Offers and promotion: After completing the development of medical properties, it is necessary to promote them and make offers to medical institutions that are seeking properties for their visiting patients or providing accommodation for patients in general, in order to offer comfortable lodging for treatment in Riyadh.
Patient accommodation services in the properties can include the following:
● Rooms equipped with all necessary facilities and amenities for patients.
● Medical treatment facilities, such as physiotherapy rooms and examination rooms.
● Kitchens and restaurants that provide healthy meals for patients according to their special dietary needs.
● Entertainment and leisure centers.
● Medical transportation services.
● Specialized medical and nursing teams.
Developing real estate can be an opportunity to enhance the healthcare sector and promote Riyadh medical tourism, attracting patients from various regions to seek treatment. This, in turn, supports the local economy and promotes economic development.
Medical tourism is considered one of the most promising sectors in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Due to its importance, the Saudi government has directed its attention towards expanding, developing, and investing in medical tourism to make it a key pillar for the KSA's economic growth.
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March 25, 2025
In a move reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental protection and biodiversity conservation, Saudi officials announced the relocation of a global project in the futuristic city of Neom due to the discovery of a rare plant species found exclusively in that location. This decision came under the direct order of HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, emphasizing the priority of environmental conservation in Saudi Vision 2030.
During the planning of a luxury resort in one of Neom’s valleys, experts discovered a rare plant species that grows only in that mountainous area and had never been documented elsewhere in the world. This placed the team in a difficult position: proceed with the massive investment project or protect this unique plant.
As recounted by Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Saudi Minister of Sports, on the program "Hikayat Waad" on MBC, the Crown Prince immediately ordered the project to be relocated and the original site to be turned into a natural reserve to protect the plant. The species was officially registered under the name "Neom", honoring the project that sacrificed financial gains for environmental preservation.
Neom adopts a unique environmental philosophy, aiming to dedicate 95% of its land as protected natural reserves, making it a model for sustainable development that balances urbanization and nature conservation. Key initiatives include:
The Neom plant story is not the only example of Saudi leadership’s environmental dedication. Bandar Al-Khorayef, Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, shared another instance where the Crown Prince rejected a mining investment in a protected area, humorously remarking:
"Did you search the entire country and only find this spot?"
This led to a revision of Saudi Arabia’s investment map to exclude protected zones.
The story of the rare Neom plant is not just an isolated event but a powerful statement from Saudi Arabia that true development does not come at nature’s expense. While other nations prioritize short-term economic gains over the environment, the Kingdom sets a global example in combining economic growth with ecological sustainability, reinforcing its role as a pioneer in protecting the planet for future generations.
March 23, 2025
Eid al-Fitr is a joyous religious and social occasion that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Families and friends come together to celebrate, and Saudi Arabia stands out as a prime tourist destination during this time. With its diverse attractions ranging from historical sites to natural wonders and entertainment hubs, the Kingdom offers an unforgettable holiday experience. In this article, we’ll explore the best tourist destinations and activities to enjoy during Eid al-Fitr 2025.
As the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is a city that blends modernity with tradition. It boasts a variety of tourist attractions, including:
A breathtaking natural wonder offering stunning views from the top of the Tuwaiq Escarpment.
A historic castle dating back to the 19th century, symbolizing the unification of the Kingdom.
A skyscraper featuring a luxury shopping mall, fine dining restaurants, and panoramic city views.
A must-visit for history enthusiasts, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage from ancient times to the modern era.
Known for its stunning beaches and rich culture, Jeddah is a perfect destination for Eid celebrations:
A mosque that appears to float on the Red Sea, offering a serene and picturesque setting.
A family-friendly waterfront with restaurants, cafes, and recreational activities.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional houses adorned with intricate wooden balconies (Mashrabiyas).
AlUla is one of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic destinations, combining ancient history with breathtaking landscapes:
An archaeological site with Nabatean tombs carved into rock formations.
A tranquil retreat surrounded by palm trees and natural springs.
A unique rock formation resembling an elephant, perfect for photography.
Abha’s mild climate and stunning scenery make it a favorite for nature lovers:
The highest peak in Saudi Arabia, offering mesmerizing views of mist-covered mountains.
A heritage village showcasing traditional architecture and local crafts.
A family-friendly park with recreational activities and scenic walking trails.
Located off the coast of Jazan, the Farasan Islands are a haven for beach and marine enthusiasts:
Al-Ahsa is renowned for its lush palm groves and rich history, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site:
The largest palm oasis in the world, home to over 2.5 million palm trees.
Natural caves formed by erosion, perfect for exploration.
A traditional market offering local products and handicrafts.
Tabuk, in the north of Saudi Arabia, is known for its historical and natural attractions:
Dammam is famous for its beaches and modern shopping centers:
An artificial island with a zoo, amusement park, and family-friendly activities.
A waterfront area ideal for walking, cycling, and picnics.
One of the largest shopping centers in the region, featuring a variety of stores and restaurants.
Taif’s moderate climate and natural beauty make it a popular destination for families:
Umluj is known for its golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for beach lovers:
In conclusion, Saudi Arabia is a comprehensive tourist destination offering diverse experiences for all tastes. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, exploring ancient history, or embarking on natural adventures, Eid al-Fitr 2025 is the perfect opportunity to discover the treasures of the Kingdom. Plan your trip now and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones!
March 20, 2025
In a new step reflecting Saudi Arabia's commitment to achieving the goals of Vision 2030, the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture announced the launch of five major investment opportunities in the agricultural sector in the Al-Baha region. These opportunities, announced through the "Furas" platform, aim to enhance self-sufficiency in agricultural products, increase local production, support food security, and attract both local and international investments.
The opportunities include the establishment of an integrated agricultural city dedicated to cultivating prickly pear (cactus fruit), as well as four agricultural cities specialized in growing coffee (Arabica) trees. According to the ministry's statement, over 2.2 million square meters will be allocated for the prickly pear agricultural city, while the coffee cultivation cities will span more than 2.3 million square meters in the Baljurashi governorate of the Al-Baha region, which boasts an ideal climate and environment for these high-quality crops.
Through these projects, the Kingdom aims to achieve several strategic goals, including:
This initiative aligns with the Kingdom's efforts to diversify income sources and reduce dependence on oil, with the agricultural sector being one of the key pillars for achieving this goal. These projects also reflect Saudi Arabia's commitment to sustainable economic development and strengthening its position as a regional hub for agricultural investment.
These investment opportunities represent a significant step towards enhancing the agricultural sector in Saudi Arabia, contributing to food security and supporting the national economy. Through these projects, Saudi Arabia demonstrates its commitment to achieving Vision 2030 by diversifying the economy and creating promising investment opportunities. This move not only supports the agricultural sector but also reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leading investment destination in the region.