Health Minister Fahad AlJalajel Discusses Health System Achievements At Budget Forum 2026

Minister of Health Fahad AlJalajel took part in the Budget Forum 2026 on Wednesday. He discussed significant achievements and progress in Saudi Arabia's health sector. AlJalajel highlighted how government support has enhanced the quality and efficiency of health services. He noted that the Kingdom’s 2026 budget marks a new era of growth, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 goals.

AlJalajel stressed that support from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince has been crucial. This backing has allowed the ministry to fulfill commitments made in the 2025 budget, focusing on "Citizen's Health First." The health system's efforts have led to improved service quality, efficiency, and accessibility, benefiting public health.

Life expectancy in Saudi Arabia increased significantly from 74 years in 2016 to 79.7 years by 2025. Additionally, road traffic fatalities saw a remarkable reduction of 60% during this period. These improvements highlight the positive impact of enhanced healthcare services on public well-being.

The Saudi health system achieved a world-first by reducing deaths from infectious diseases by half. Non-communicable disease fatalities decreased by 40%, while deaths from unintentional injuries dropped by 30%. These milestones underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing public health standards.

Looking towards 2026, the focus will remain on sustainable service delivery. The aim is to ensure higher quality healthcare reaches more people, further improving public health outcomes. This approach will help solidify Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a leading global health destination.

The continued development across all sectors, including health, is part of comprehensive growth under Saudi Vision 2030. The government's ongoing support plays a vital role in achieving these objectives, ensuring that citizens receive top-notch healthcare services.

With inputs from SPA