Saudi Arabia – Veterinary Care

What is the standard of veterinary care in Saudi Arabia?

Across Saudi Arabia, veterinary practices are broadly accessible, with facilities operating in cities and towns throughout the country. These clinics are staffed by qualified practitioners capable of treating numerous animal species, and their offerings span routine wellness visits, surgical procedures, dental treatment, and diagnostic services.

The sector is evolving rapidly, propelled by a surge in pet ownership, rising consumer expectations, and the growing influence of international veterinary standards. Hospitals are increasingly investing in cutting-edge diagnostic equipment, surgical technology, digital record-keeping systems, and specialist clinical services. Many leading facilities now feature digital imaging, CT scanners, ultrasound units, and endoscopic equipment, enabling accurate assessments and minimally invasive interventions.

A notable development is the growth of multispecialty and referral centres offering dedicated services in orthopaedics, cardiology, dermatology, dentistry, and exotic animal medicine. Groups such as the Salam Veterinary Group illustrate this trajectory, providing round-the-clock advanced surgical capabilities and emergency care.

That said, considerable variation exists in the quality of care between individual practices, placing pet owners in the position of choosing between a more affordable but less comprehensively equipped clinic and a higher-cost, better-resourced facility. Emergency services available outside of standard hours are largely concentrated in the largest urban centres, meaning that those living in less populated areas face more limited options in a crisis. Inconsistent regulatory oversight, uneven infrastructure, and the challenges of accessing care in rural settings remain genuine concerns.

Expatriates based in Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam will generally find a solid range of well-equipped practices within reach, whereas those living in smaller towns or rural areas will encounter fewer choices. Anyone relocating outside the major cities should identify the closest reputable clinic as a matter of priority, well before an emergency occurs.

Is there a national veterinary association in Saudi Arabia?

The principal government body with responsibility for animal health in Saudi Arabia is the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA). MEWA’s Veterinary Health and Control Division, established in 2017, is charged with drafting and revising animal health regulations, formulating disease control strategies, and setting standards for veterinary health services across the Kingdom. Official resources and guidance are available at www.mewa.gov.sa.

The National Centre for the Prevention and Control of Plant Pests and Animal Disease — known as the WEQAA Centre — works to align Saudi Arabia’s practices with the standards of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), and has invested significantly in strengthening its capacity to manage and respond to disease outbreaks. The WEQAA Centre functions as the central competent authority for animal health nationally, with a mandate to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for the sector.

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) acts as the regulatory body for veterinary product registration in the Kingdom. Both site and product registration applications must be directed to the SFDA, whose website can be found at www.sfda.gov.sa.

At the professional association level, the Saudi Veterinary Medical Society promotes the advancement of veterinary practitioners across all disciplines. Separately, Refq (رفق) — the Saudi Association for Animal Care administers a clinic membership programme. Member clinics are required to hold a valid municipal licence, employ at least one university-qualified veterinarian, and hold a recognised Saudi licence to practise veterinary medicine. Participating clinics receive an annual certificate of membership and appear in a directory of practices endorsed by the association for meeting its standards. Refq’s website — refq.org — offers a searchable listing of member clinics, providing a practical way to verify whether a practice meets minimum accreditation criteria. Always consult official websites for the latest information, as directories and requirements are subject to change.

How do I find a vet in Saudi Arabia, and are multilingual vets available?

Locating a trustworthy vet in Saudi Arabia calls for somewhat more effort than in countries where a centralised national register is readily searchable. The most dependable starting points are the Refq Association’s member clinic directory at refq.org, MEWA’s regional offices, and word-of-mouth recommendations from established expat communities in your area.

Pet Arabia Veterinary Hospital in Jeddah is among the most widely regarded practices in the country, covering routine examinations, vaccinations, surgical procedures, and boarding. The Pet Doctor Veterinary Hospital in Riyadh is staffed by vets experienced in treating multiple species, with services including wellness visits, vaccination programmes, surgery, and dental care. Al Tamimi Veterinary Hospital in Dammam is one of the most established facilities in the Eastern Province, offering check-ups, surgeries, and dental treatment.

In major cities, many vets working in private clinics have completed their training abroad and are fully comfortable consulting in both Arabic and English. Certain practices, such as the Saudi Veterinary Clinic, specifically employ internationally trained veterinarians alongside multilingual support staff, reflecting the diverse workforce found throughout Saudi Arabia, and have considerable experience serving mixed expatriate and local communities. In smaller towns and more remote areas, however, language barriers become more of an obstacle, and arranging a translator — whether through a colleague, your company, or compound staff — is a sensible precaution.

Expat forums and online community groups are invaluable sources of peer-reviewed recommendations and current clinic feedback. Relevant Facebook groups (try searching “Expats in Riyadh”, “Jeddah Expats”, or equivalent) and ExpatWoman.com are particularly active. Google Maps is also widely used across Saudi Arabia and includes user ratings and reviews for veterinary clinics in all principal cities.

What vaccinations and preventive treatments does my pet need in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia’s climate and ecology present health challenges for pets that are markedly different from those encountered in cooler or more temperate parts of the world. The extreme heat, pervasive dust and sand, and the presence of region-specific parasites all demand careful attention to preventive healthcare once you arrive.

Because Saudi Arabia is classified as a high-risk country for rabies, maintaining current rabies vaccination is non-negotiable for all dogs and cats. Beyond rabies, dogs should be protected against canine distemper, canine hepatitis, adenovirus, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. Cats should receive standard feline core vaccines covering herpesvirus, calicivirus, and panleukopenia. Your vet in Saudi Arabia will be able to advise on locally appropriate schedules and any additional non-core vaccines worth considering.

Parasite prevention deserves particular emphasis. Fleas, ticks, and sandflies are all prevalent, and tick-borne illnesses along with leishmaniasis — spread by sandfly bites — have been documented in parts of the region. Year-round protection against fleas and ticks is strongly advisable, and your vet should tailor recommendations to your specific location and your pet’s lifestyle. While heartworm is less widespread here than in some tropical regions, cases have been reported in the Gulf, and preventive treatment may be recommended depending on where you are based.

The ferocious summer heat — which regularly surpasses 45°C in certain areas — also poses genuine dangers, especially for brachycephalic breeds such as bulldogs or Persian cats, which are highly vulnerable to heatstroke. Your vet can provide guidance on heat management and safe exercise patterns. Always seek advice from a licensed veterinarian in Saudi Arabia for current, location-specific recommendations on vaccination schedules and preventive treatments, as local disease risks and requirements can evolve over time.

What does veterinary care cost in Saudi Arabia?

Veterinary fees in Saudi Arabia vary considerably based on the type of clinic, the city, and the nature of the treatment required. No government-regulated fee schedule applies to private veterinary practices, so pricing can differ substantially from one clinic to the next.

The disparity in quality between practices means pet owners must often weigh the appeal of a lower-cost but less well-equipped clinic against the greater reassurance of a better-staffed facility at a higher price. A standard consultation at a certified practice in a major city can reach SAR 300 (approximately USD 80) — broadly on a par with what you might encounter at a private vet in many European countries, though without any equivalent of publicly funded veterinary support. These figures reflect prices from around 2020; always confirm current fees directly with the practice, as costs change over time.

Routine vaccinations at urban clinics generally fall in the range of SAR 50 to SAR 150 per vaccine, while common surgical procedures such as neutering or spaying can range from SAR 500 to well above SAR 2,000, depending on the animal’s size, the clinic’s facilities, and whether any complications arise. Consultations with specialists in cardiology, orthopaedics, or oncology at referral centres will attract considerably higher charges. Request an itemised estimate before authorising any planned procedure, and confirm pricing upfront.

The elevated cost of pet care has prompted some owners to advocate for government-regulated pricing and stricter oversight of lower-quality pet store clinics. This ongoing discussion highlights why choosing a properly licensed and accredited practice matters — even if the initial fee is higher, the standards of care and accountability tend to be greater.

Is pet insurance available in Saudi Arabia, and is it worth it?

In 2023, the Insurance Authority of Saudi Arabia introduced the “Pet Insurance Policy Rules,” requiring all licensed providers to cover a defined minimum set of veterinary services, including emergency care, vaccinations, and annual health checks. These rules also mandate standardised policy terms, transparency in coverage, and adherence to veterinary health standards — making Saudi Arabia’s pet insurance market more formally structured than those of many neighbouring countries.

The Saudi Arabia pet insurance market generated revenue of USD 34.1 million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 109.2 million by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate of 18.1% from 2024 to 2030. Despite this rapid expansion, the market remains small in comparison with mature markets such as the United Kingdom or Sweden, where a far greater proportion of pets are covered.

Policy types currently available include accident-only cover, illness-only cover, combined accident and illness policies, preventive care and wellness plans, and various other options. Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam account for the bulk of activity in this market, driven by higher population density, more affluent demographics, and a greater concentration of veterinary clinics and pet service providers.

One experienced vet based in Saudi Arabia observed that pet insurance is a worthwhile concept, but only when the driving motivation is making animal healthcare genuinely affordable — if profit rather than welfare is the primary aim, the cost to the owner can actually exceed what they would spend without any coverage at all. This is a caution worth heeding in any market. When comparing policies, scrutinise exclusions for pre-existing conditions, annual limits on payouts, and whether the insurer reimburses you directly or settles bills with the clinic. Given that a single emergency surgical intervention can amount to several thousand riyals, a well-chosen policy can offer meaningful financial protection — particularly for older animals or breeds predisposed to health problems.

What are the rules for bringing a pet into Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia imposes strict requirements on the importation of pets, and a thorough understanding of these conditions is essential to avoid disruptions or complications on arrival. The entire process should be initiated well in advance of your travel date — ideally no fewer than six to eight weeks beforehand.

The key steps are as follows:

1. Microchip your pet. Your pet must be fitted with a microchip that conforms to ISO standard 11784 or Annex A of ISO standard 11785. The chip must be 15 digits long, contain no letters, and be non-encrypted so that it can be read by a universal scanner.
2. Vaccinate against rabies. All dogs and cats over three months of age must have documented proof of current rabies vaccination. The vaccine must be given no fewer than 30 days and no more than six months before travel; three-year vaccines are not accepted.
3. Obtain additional core vaccinations. Dogs must be vaccinated against distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and adenovirus. Your vet in your home country can advise on appropriate timing and scheduling.
4. Obtain a MEWA import permit. All dogs and cats require an import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture (MEWA), which must be secured by the owner or an authorised agent in Saudi Arabia no later than 14 days before arrival. The application must be accompanied by a copy of the health certificate, the owner’s passport, residency or work visa details, and sponsor or company information. Applications are submitted through MEWA’s Naama (Anaam) platform. Each permit covers up to two animals and remains valid for 30 days from the date of issue.
5. Obtain a government-endorsed health certificate. The government veterinary authority in your country of origin must formally approve and endorse the health certificate. This document is typically issued within 10 days of departure.
6. Check breed restrictions. As of July 2025, MEWA guidance indicates that dogs are not generally permitted to enter Saudi Arabia except in the categories of hunting dogs, guard dogs, and guide dogs for people with disabilities. Specific breeds including Pit Bulls, Dobermans, and Rottweilers are prohibited. Review current MEWA guidance on breed restrictions before finalising travel plans. Saudi and Arab nationals importing dogs must provide paperwork — endorsed by a licensed veterinarian — confirming that the animal is a certified service, guard, or hunting dog.
7. Enter on the correct visa. Pet importation is not permitted for those entering Saudi Arabia on a tourist visa. Only individuals holding a work or residency visa are eligible to import a pet.
8. Arrive via an approved port of entry. Pets must pass through designated entry points. Confirm which ports are currently approved with MEWA or a specialist pet relocation agent before booking travel.

If all import conditions are fully satisfied, your pet will not be subject to quarantine upon entering Saudi Arabia. Always verify the most current requirements directly with MEWA before travelling, as the rules are updated periodically and non-compliance can result in your pet being quarantined, refused entry, or returned at your expense.

Are there any animal welfare laws or pet ownership regulations I should know about?

MEWA bears responsibility for drafting and updating animal health regulations and formulating disease control strategies, while also establishing oversight standards for veterinary health services across the Kingdom. Saudi Arabia additionally maintains national legislation on zoonotic diseases and a broader livestock regulatory framework that encompasses companion animals.

MEWA has made clear that failure to report epidemic or contagious diseases without delay exposes individuals to penalties under the Livestock Law, potentially including fines of up to SAR 1 million and public disclosure of offenders’ names. Pet owners are therefore legally obligated to cooperate fully with animal disease control measures.

Before signing a rental agreement, it is important to confirm with your landlord that pets are permitted on the property. Many residential areas across the Kingdom prohibit dogs, although a number of expat compounds are pet-friendly. These restrictions often operate at the compound or municipality level rather than being set out in national legislation, and are not always apparent from the outset of a tenancy negotiation.

For pet owners navigating life in a broader social and cultural context, there are important norms to observe alongside formal legal obligations. This includes respecting the prevailing religious sensitivities around dogs — for example, not bringing a dog near a mosque or into dining establishments — cleaning up after your pet consistently, and keeping abreast of local rules as they evolve. Adhering to these expectations is a matter of courtesy and respect, regardless of one’s personal background.

There is no single nationwide companion animal registration scheme equivalent to those in operation in some other countries, but requirements set at the municipal level can differ from one area to another. Contact your local municipality (baladiyya) for detail on any registration, licensing, or leash requirements that apply in your locality. The MEWA website and the WEQAA Centre remain the most authoritative official sources for current national animal welfare legislation.

Frequently asked questions about veterinary care and pet ownership in Saudi Arabia

Can I bring any breed of dog to Saudi Arabia?

As of July 2025, MEWA guidance states that dogs are not generally allowed into Saudi Arabia except for hunting, guarding, and guide dogs for the disabled. Certain breeds including Pit Bulls, Dobermans, and Rottweilers are specifically prohibited, and any attempt to import banned breeds can lead to confiscation, fines, and legal action. Always confirm current breed rules directly with MEWA before making arrangements.

Is there quarantine for pets arriving in Saudi Arabia?

Provided you meet all the import requirements — microchipping, correct vaccinations, MEWA import permit, and endorsed health certificate — no quarantine will be imposed on your pet when entering Saudi Arabia. Failure to meet any requirement may result in your pet being held at the port of entry or refused entry entirely.

How do I apply for a MEWA pet import permit?

A MEWA import permit is required for all dogs and cats, and must be obtained by the owner or an authorised agent in Saudi Arabia at least 14 days before entry. The application is submitted through MEWA’s Naama (Anaam) platform online, along with a copy of the health certificate, owner passport, residency or work visa, and a photo of the pet. The permit is valid for 30 days after issuance. Visit www.mewa.gov.sa for the current application process.

Are English-speaking vets easy to find in Saudi Arabia?

In major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, many vets in private practices have trained internationally and can communicate in English. Some clinics specifically employ Western-trained vets and staff of many nationalities, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s multicultural workforce. In smaller towns and rural areas, English-speaking vets are less common, and arranging a translator in advance is advisable.

What is the SFDA’s role in veterinary care?

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) is the regulatory body responsible for veterinary product registration in Saudi Arabia. The SFDA oversees human and animal products to safeguard the public from harmful, substandard, or ineffective products, with a core mandate to ensure product safety, efficacy, and quality. This means that veterinary medicines and treatments available in Saudi Arabia must meet SFDA approval standards.

Can I take my pet back out of Saudi Arabia when I leave?

Many expat families focus entirely on the process of bringing a pet into the country, only to discover at the time of departure that exporting an animal from Saudi Arabia can be just as involved. For export, the pet must have current vaccinations, proper identification, a veterinary examination, and a valid health certificate — typically issued within the 10 days before departure. Entry requirements differ by destination country, so begin planning the outward journey well ahead of time and confirm both MEWA’s export requirements and those of your next country of residence.

Is there anywhere to report animal welfare concerns in Saudi Arabia?

MEWA encourages everyone to participate in disease control programmes and to report suspected cases by calling the toll-free number 8002470000. For concerns specifically relating to animal welfare, the Refq Association for Animal Care (refq.org) is the principal civil society organisation in this space. Complaints and service requests can also be submitted to MEWA’s regional branch offices.

Do I need pet insurance in Saudi Arabia?

The Insurance Authority of Saudi Arabia issued the “Pet Insurance Policy Rules, 2023,” mandating that all licensed providers must offer coverage for a minimum set of services including emergency care, vaccinations, and annual health checks. While insurance is not a legal requirement for pet owners, the financial case for it is compelling — a standard consultation at a certified urban clinic can already cost SAR 200–300, and surgical procedures can run into thousands of riyals. This makes insurance particularly worthwhile for older pets or those with chronic health conditions. Compare policies carefully, with close attention to exclusions for pre-existing conditions and annual coverage caps.