Saudi Arabia Marks World Patient Safety Day 2026

Saudi Arabia marked World Patient Safety Day 2026 on 17 September under the theme “Safe Care for Life,” placing the spotlight on safe, high-quality care for people living with chronic (noncommunicable) diseases. National health indicators released alongside the observance point to major gains in disease outcomes and longevity across the Kingdom.

mortality linked to chronic diseases has fallen by 40%, a reduction attributed to wider prevention efforts, early screening, and stronger long-term disease management. At the same time, average life expectancy has risen from 74 years in 2016 to around 79.7–79.9 years by the end of 2025, bringing the Kingdom very close to its Vision 2030 target of 80 years.

Healthcare performance measures have improved as well. The Healthcare Services Quality Index reached about 70.4% in 2025, comfortably above the annual target of 60%. These results are tied to the Health Sector Transformation Program, which emphasizes prevention before treatment, early detection of chronic conditions, and integrated care pathways that let patients take part in decisions about their treatment and self-management.

Why it matters for the community

The Saudi Patient Safety Center is leading national activities for World Patient Safety Day 2026, framed as a “safe journey throughout life.” Awareness campaigns focus on safe care for chronic disease patients at every stage — from prevention and diagnosis to treatment, follow-up, and long-term care.

For residents and expats across Riyadh, Jeddah, and beyond, the message is practical: routine screening, early detection, and active involvement in managing conditions such as diabetes and heart disease can significantly improve long-term health. These efforts form part of the broader Health Sector Transformation Program under Vision 2030, which aims to keep reducing chronic disease mortality and reach a life expectancy of 80 years by 2030.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving