Health insurance would be mandatory for all foreigners coming to the Kingdom on visit visas, the Cooperative Health Insurance Council announced on Wednesday following a meeting chaired by the health minister.

“Those applying for visas to enter the Kingdom for a visit, an extension or in transit, as well as their dependents should present valid insurance certificates for medical cover inside the Kingdom,” an official said.

The new measure, which has been approved by the Saudi Cabinet, would not be applied to Haj and Umrah pilgrims, holders of diplomatic and special passports, state guests and those coming for medical treatment.

“Visitors from international organizations and diplomatic missions will also be exempted from the law on the basis of reciprocal treatment,” the official said.

He said the insurance certificates are required to meet expenses for the treatment of diseases, emergency cases, first aid and air ambulance services.

The official did not say when the new scheme would be imposed. However, insurance specialists said it would be implemented soon. According to one specialist, the insurance premium could be about SR100 for a month.

“We don’t know whether this system will be implemented through a single insurance company or open to competition for all licensed companies,” said the specialist, who requested anonymity. He said the measure required further clarification from the government.

However, he welcomed the move saying it would help visitors and transit passengers get proper health cover, especially in emergencies such as road accidents. It will cover an estimated 1 million visitors to the Kingdom, especially relatives of expatriate workers.

Another expert estimated the Kingdom’s insurance market at more than SR25 billion, especially after health insurance cover was made mandatory for the issuance of resident permits for expatriates and their family members.

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