Accidents and Emergencies In Saudi Arabia

Details of what to do in the event of an emergency in Saudi Arabia.

In the event of any emergency in Saudi Arabia, call 997. This connects with ambulance and helicopter rescue services. Operators usually speak English. If an ambulance is dispatched after a call to this number, it will take the patient to a government-run hospital. The larger private hospitals have their own ambulance services. If an ambulance is not required, go directly to the nearest hospital with an A&E department.

As a precaution, after arriving in the country, it is advisable to search for the closest private hospital to home and/or work with an A&E department, to register there, and to keep it updated with insurance details whenever there are any changes. This will reduce both confusion and waiting time in an emergency. If the hospital has a dedicated ambulance service, store the number for this in case of emergency.

Registration will require a visit to the hospital with some personal identification – either a passport or the Iqama (Residence Permit) – and details of the medical insurance policy (normally on the card). It is also important to carry the medical insurance card at all times as this information will speed up the admission procedure to a hospital.

In the event of treatment being given by a clinic or hospital that is not included by the insurance policy, the patient will be liable for all costs incurred. Therefore, it is important to know what the cover includes when signing up to a policy and to clarify the coverage upon admission to a hospital. The normal procedure in non-emergency situations is for a hospital doctor to verify the necessary treatment, then the hospital will get clearance from the insurer (usually within 24 hours) to go ahead with the treatment.

Emergency Services

Police – 999

Fire service – 998

Ambulance service (public) – 997

Traffic Police (Al Maroor) – 993

Najm (Najm Insurance Services Company) – 9200 00560

Most operators usually speak English, especially enough to understand the circumstances of an accident or emergency. However, in case it is not possible to reach an English-speaker, it is advisable to keep the number of an Arabic-speaking contact handy to help request assistance and describe the situation.

 
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