City in Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia
Healthcare in Mecca: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Mecca
Free Hajj health centres exist during the season. For serious cases, ambulances (997) take pilgrims to the nearest government hospital; private hospitals are an option for visitors with insurance.
Hospitals for foreigners in Mecca
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Al Noor Specialist Hospital | Large hospital near the Haram, handles pilgrims |
| King Abdullah Medical City | Major government hospital for serious cases |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: SR150–400 ($40–107) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Saudi Arabia: Good government and private hospitals in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam; the visa insurance covers basics. Remote desert areas are far from care.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacy chains like Nahdi and Al-Dawaa are everywhere, many 24 hours; city pharmacists usually speak English.
- Health spending: US$1,825 per person a year (2023); 3.4 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 999 · Ambulance 997 · Fire 998 · All emergencies 911.
Travel and health insurance
Required for entry: Medical insurance is mandatory and included in the tourist eVisa fee.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Mecca for foreigners?
Al Noor Specialist Hospital: Large hospital near the Haram, handles pilgrims
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Mecca?
About SR150–400 ($40–107) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Saudi Arabia?
Medical insurance is mandatory and included in the tourist eVisa fee.
More about Mecca
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Saudi Arabia
- Nusuk (Umrah and Hajj)
- Ministry of Hajj and Umrah
- Saudi eVisa
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