Building the future of health tourism 
Saudi Arabia stands on the brink of major transformation in its tourism sector, aiming to achieve the goals of Vision 2030. With tremendous potential to become a world-leading destination in health and wellness tourism, Saudi Arabia can leverage the pillars discussed in previous articles to position itself as a leader in comprehensive wellness and medical care, attracting both local and international tourists.
Mental health is increasingly recognized as a vital aspect of overall well-being and, as awareness grows, so does the demand for destinations offering specialized treatments and environments that promote good mental health.
Saudi Arabia has the potential to develop such facilities, blending traditional healing practices with modern psychological care. This approach is crucial for expanding mental health tourism and addiction centers, where Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural and religious heritage can complement contemporary psychological treatments.
This integration could create a unique therapeutic environment that honors cultural backgrounds while offering evidence-based care. There is a significant opportunity to establish specialized mental health facilities to serve local and international tourists, offering services such as stress management, addiction treatment and comprehensive wellness programs, positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in mental health tourism.
By providing support, funding and infrastructure development — including training healthcare professionals, building specialized facilities and running awareness campaigns — collaboration with international mental health organizations helps bring best practices and advanced treatments to Saudi Arabia. These partnerships can also enhance research and innovation in the field. Developing a strong marketing strategy that highlights Saudi Arabia’s unique offerings in mental healthcare is essential, including promoting the country’s advanced medical infrastructure, culturally sensitive approaches, and beautiful landscapes that contribute to a healing environment.
As the population ages, there is an increasing need for specialized elderly care services. Saudi Arabia can develop facilities to meet the unique needs of the elderly, including chronic disease management, physical rehabilitation and mental health support. Elderly care in Saudi Arabia is deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions.
Developing care facilities that respect these traditions while providing high-quality medical care is crucial to attracting both local and international clients. The concept of health tourism can be expanded to meet the needs of the elderly, offering specialized programs that include physical therapy, mental stimulation activities and cultural experiences specifically designed for older adults.
One of the key challenges is developing infrastructure that is accessible and comfortable for elderly patients. This includes ensuring that facilities are designed with mobility issues in mind and that transportation options are available. There is also a need for healthcare professionals trained in geriatrics who consider the specific needs of elderly patients. This includes not only medical training but also cultural competence. Developing clear regulatory and policy frameworks to support elderly care facilities is essential, including ensuring that standards are met and that there is oversight to protect the interests of elderly patients.
Other ideas include integrated care models that combine medical care, social support and wellness activities, offering a holistic approach. These models can be promoted as part of a health tourism package. Encouraging government investment in elderly care facilities through incentives such as tax breaks or grants can help stimulate sector growth, attract international investors and create opportunities to reduce unemployment.
The nonprofit sector can play a critical role in innovating new approaches to healthcare and wellness, including developing community-based programs, providing education and awareness, and advocating for patients’ rights. Nonprofit organizations often have deep roots in the communities they serve, enabling them to build trust and engagement, which is essential to promoting new health initiatives.
Nonprofit organizations can attract funding and resources from international donors, corporate partnerships and philanthropic individuals. This funding can support the development of healthcare facilities and programs.
Partnerships between the government, the private sector and nonprofit organizations — through a collaborative approach — can create a sustainable model for health tourism, benefiting from the strengths of each sector. By enhancing factors such as policy support for innovation and community engagement, nonprofit organizations can play a key role in training healthcare workers and building capacity in this sector.
Developing regulations that support the growth of the health tourism sector while ensuring ethical practices is essential, including setting standards for healthcare facilities, protecting patient privacy and confidentiality, and ensuring transparency in pricing. The use of technology such as telemedicine and digital health platforms can enhance healthcare services and make them more accessible to international tourists.
Saudi Arabia is witnessing significant development and a major renaissance in various economic fields, seeking to diversify its economy and build a sustainable future. One of the projects focused on sustainability with multiple economic dimensions is the expansion of the health tourism sector, which plays a crucial role in increasing the domestic product, creating job opportunities and attracting investments.
• Saad Majdy Baslom has more than 10 years’ experience in health tourism, wellness services, management, regulation and policy as a technical affairs director in complementary medicine. He holds a leadership and management certificate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, a doctorate in traditional Chinese medicine, and master’s degrees in Chinese herbology and acupuncture.
