Healthcare in the Middle East - statistics & facts
The Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) nations have made significant strides in healthcare over the past few decades. Yet, beneath this progress lies a dual reality: cutting-edge medical hubs thrive in some areas, while healthcare systems collapse in others. The region’s diverse population, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds add complexity to its challenges, which include ongoing conflicts, a growing refugee crisis, and rising rates of non-communicable diseases, such as the region’s diabetes prevalence.
Additionally, these regions are experiencing a growing mental health crisis, with sharp increases in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression among conflict-affected populations. The number of mental health patients in the MENA region was estimated at almost 80 million in 2024.
In conclusion, the MENA region’s healthcare landscape is one of contrasts. While some countries excel as global medical hubs, others face critical challenges. Sustained investments, continued commitment to addressing disparities, and fostering collaboration are key to unlocking the full potential of healthcare in this diverse region.
Thriving healthcare sectors in MENA
While some healthcare systems in the region face challenges, others stand out as models of success. The healthcare system of Saudi Arabia provides nationals and expats working in the public sector free public healthcare. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is recognized in areas such as cancer treatment, cosmetic surgery, and ophthalmology, drawing medical tourists with luxury wellness experiences and high-quality care. Healthcare spending in the UAE was forecast to exceed 30 billion U.S. dollars by 2027. The UAE ranked 19th in the 2022 World Index of Healthcare Innovation. The UAE has also become a leader in digital health, integrating telemedicine and artificial intelligence (AI) to expand access and enhance efficiency. The number of digital health users in the UAE was about 3.4 million in 2024.Healthcare in conflict zones
Countries in conflict face a severe healthcare crisis, marked by overwhelming demand for medical assistance and a dire shortage of healthcare supplies. The MENA region had the world’s highest need for humanitarian aid in 2023, according to the United Nations Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. In Yemen, the healthcare system struggles to provide basic healthcare to its citizens. Alongside this, in Syria, more than half of the hospitals have suffered damage or destruction due to the continuing civil conflict and a lack of medical supplies because of political sanctions. In Gaza, the situation is even more dire, with the healthcare system on the brink of total collapse.Additionally, these regions are experiencing a growing mental health crisis, with sharp increases in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression among conflict-affected populations. The number of mental health patients in the MENA region was estimated at almost 80 million in 2024.
In conclusion, the MENA region’s healthcare landscape is one of contrasts. While some countries excel as global medical hubs, others face critical challenges. Sustained investments, continued commitment to addressing disparities, and fostering collaboration are key to unlocking the full potential of healthcare in this diverse region.
