Expatriate Physicians in Saudi Arabia: Evolving Expectations and Experiences in the Era of Healthcare Reform
Author : Dr. Swathi Gurajala
Abstract :
Background: Expatriate physicians constitute a substantial portion of Saudi Arabia’s healthcare workforce play a critical role in both public and private sectors. Since 2019, transformative reforms under Vision 2030, alongside global disruptions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic have significantly reshaped their professional landscape.
Objective: This brief report examined the evolving expectations and lived experiences of expatriate physicians in Saudi Arabia from 2019 to 2024. It focuses on key areas including workforce policy changes, digital transformation, cultural integration, and emotional well-being.
Methods: A review methodology was employed to synthesize insights from peer-reviewed journals, government publications, and regional literature published between 2019 and 2024. Thematic analysis was used to identify the core domains influencing the professional lives of the expatriate medical staff.
Results: Five major themes emerged:
1. Job insecurity driven by Saudi policies,
2. Inadequate institutional support for digital health transitions,
3. Persistent cultural and gender integration challenges,
4. Elevated burnout rates and insufficient mental health resources, and
5. Limited access to career advancement and leadership roles. These factors contribute to a growing disconnect between physician expectations and institutional realities, prompting many to consider relocation.
Conclusion: Despite the ongoing healthcare reforms, expatriate physicians in Saudi Arabia continue to face significant professional and personal challenges. Addressing these issues requires inclusive workforce policies, enhanced cultural integration, accessible mental health support, and transparent merit-based career pathways for foreign-trained doctors.
Keywords: Physicians, Foreign, Health Care Reform, Saudi Arabia vision 2030, Burnout, Professional, Personnel Management.
Keywords :
Physicians, Foreign, Health Care Reform, Saudi Arabia vision 2030, Burnout, Professional, Personnel Management.
