As petroleum-rich economies, the GCC nations are majorly dependent on oil as their primary source of income. However, a slump in oil prices in the past few years has slowed down the economic growth of the region and has forced governments to find means of generating income from non-oil-based sectors such as healthcare, education, tourism, and so on ensure growth and stability in the region.

The healthcare industry in the GCC is picking up pace as reflected by the growing healthcare expenditure, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE accounting for more than 75% share of current healthcare expenditure.

With foreign-trained doctors & specialists, Saudi Arabia can combine medical tourism with religious tourism and attract 24% of the world’s Muslim population, as people may have higher spiritual needs during illness.

Saudi Arabia is known for treatments such as organ transplants, eye surgery, pediatrics, and obesity. The Arabian Gulf Medical Tourism agency in Saudi Arabia delivers medical liaison services between Saudis and foreign patients and hospitals.