Saudi Arabia: A Growing Hub for Healthcare Education and Professional Opportunities
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is driving a transformative shift in healthcare, with the Health Sector Transformation Program at its core. By investing in advanced facilities, education and training, the kingdom is meeting evolving healthcare demands while diversifying beyond oil into tourism, sports, culture and entertainment. Rapidly emerging as a key global player, recent Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) survey data underscores Saudi Arabia’s increasing appeal to international healthcare practitioners and students.
An emerging destination with high potential
Along with its rapidly advancing economy, Saudi Arabia has garnered global attention for its remarkable healthcare transformation. Central to this appeal are the Saudi Board for Health Specialties, which provides world-class training across key health specialties and enhances the skills of healthcare practitioners. Beyond this, the kingdom offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty and modern experiences, making it a premier destination for both cultural enrichment and professional growth. Offering exceptional educational opportunities, cultural immersion, career advancement and attractive financial benefits, Saudi Arabia stands out as an ideal choice for continued education and professional development.
A notable portion of healthcare professionals and students, especially those from Europe, North America and key international markets, have positive perceptions of Saudi Arabia. A key finding from the survey is that 26% of respondents would consider moving to Saudi Arabia for postgraduate healthcare accreditation or certification. Their interest is driven by quality training, a culturally enriching environment and attractive career benefits, including substantial financial remuneration. The survey highlights the attraction of Saudi Arabia’s healthcare infrastructure, financial opportunities and specialized training programs, and its perception as a financially rewarding, developed and innovative country.
The report highlights growth potential from markets such as Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Mexico and the USA, along with strong interest in Saudi Arabia’s healthcare education and training from countries with sizable Muslim populations, like Indonesia, India and Nigeria.
“Vision 2030 and the Health Sector Transformation Program are driving the kingdom’s healthcare growth. We support their goals by leveraging technology, advancing telemedicine and fostering continuous learning. While our strategies evolve, our aim remains clear: to provide accessible, high-quality healthcare training and services. As we progress, we are transforming healthcare and setting a global example of innovation, diversity and opportunity,” says Prof. Aws Alshamsan, Secretary General, Saudi Commission for Health Specialties.
As the kingdom diversifies its economy, SCFHS plays a crucial role in advancing healthcare. For three decades, SCFHS has led in healthcare certification and training with its Saudi Board for Health Specialties, integrating classification, training, assessments and registration. With over 19,000 trainees, SCFHS is now using AI to enhance workforce development, streamline accreditation and ensure top-quality healthcare.
Saudi Arabia is set to emerge as a global leader in healthcare training and certification. By addressing the needs of international healthcare professionals, the kingdom aims to become a top destination for quality training, cultural enrichment and career growth. These efforts are crucial in guiding Saudi Arabia toward achieving the ambitious healthcare goals of Vision 2030.
About the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) and the survey:
The SCFHS is an independent scientific professional body, established in 1992, that regulates healthcare-related practices and accreditation at all levels in Saudi Arabia. SCFHS conducted a global survey to enrich its understanding of how Saudi Arabia is perceived internationally by current and aspiring healthcare professionals. The survey, conducted online, studied responses from 5,000 healthcare practitioners and medical students/interns spanning 39 countries. The primary objective of this research was to delve into the attitudes, behaviors and motivations of healthcare practitioners and students from Europe, North America and key international markets. The survey was conducted between April and June 2024.
