KFSH&RC welcomes international patients seeking world-class medical care in Saudi Arabia. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about medical travel, treatment, and logistics.
Logistics & Accommodation for International Patients
King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSH&RC)
For international patients traveling to KFSH&RC, ensuring smooth logistics and comfortable accommodation is a priority. Below are frequently asked questions covering transportation, lodging, and facilities to assist medical tourists in planning their stay.
1. What Are the Nearest International Airports to KFSH&RC?
KFSH&RC has facilities in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Madinah. Below are the closest international airports:
- Riyadh: King Khalid International Airport (RUH) (Approx. 40 min from KFSH&RC Riyadh)
- Jeddah: King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) (Approx. 30 min from KFSH&RC Jeddah)
- Madinah: Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) (Approx. 25 min from KFSH&RC Madinah)
All these airports serve major international flights from the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and North America.
2. Does KFSH&RC Provide Airport Transfer Services?
Yes, KFSH&RC offers optional transportation services for international patients. You can request a private hospital shuttle to pick you up from the airport.
Alternatively, you can use:
✅ Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem)
✅ Taxis available at all airports
✅ Car rental services (if preferred)
💡 Tip: Contact the International Patient Services team in advance to schedule an airport pickup.
3. Where Can I Stay During My Treatment?
KFSH&RC provides several accommodation options for international patients and their companions:
1️⃣ On-Campus Lodging (Hospital Guest Houses)
🏨 The hospital offers limited accommodation for international patients who require extended stays. Availability is based on medical necessity and must be booked in advance.
2️⃣ Partner Hotels Nearby
We have agreements with several hotels near the hospital that offer discounted rates for KFSH&RC patients. Options range from luxury to budget-friendly hotels.
🔹 Some popular hotels near KFSH&RC Riyadh:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh (5-star)
- Crowne Plaza Riyadh (4-star)
- Ibis Riyadh Olaya Street (3-star)
🔹 Some popular hotels near KFSH&RC Jeddah:
- Jeddah Hilton (5-star)
- Novotel Jeddah Tahlia (4-star)
- Holiday Inn Jeddah Gateway (3-star)
💡 Tip: Patients can request assistance from the Hospital Concierge team to book partner hotels.
4. Can I Rent an Apartment or Furnished Suite?
Yes, if you plan to stay for an extended period, you may prefer serviced apartments near the hospital. Many furnished residences offer kitchen facilities, laundry, and additional privacy.
Recommended serviced apartments in Riyadh:
- Marriott Executive Apartments
- Fraser Suites Riyadh
- Almuhaidib Residence
These accommodations can be booked monthly or weekly, based on your needs.
5. Can My Family or Companion Stay With Me?
Yes, KFSH&RC allows one companion to stay with the patient, either in the hospital’s accommodation (if available) or at nearby hotels. Additional companions may need special approval.
For patients staying in private accommodation, family members can visit according to hospital visiting hours.
6. What Are the Visiting Hours for Family & Friends?
Visiting hours vary by department but generally follow these timings:
🕒 General Wards: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Daily)
🕒 Intensive Care Unit (ICU): Limited access; approval required
🕒 Pediatric Units: Flexible hours for parents
💡 Tip: Visitors should check with hospital staff for any COVID-19 or health-related restrictions before visiting.
7. Are There Dining & Food Options Nearby?
Yes, patients and visitors can access multiple dining options inside and around KFSH&RC:
Inside the hospital:
Hospital cafeteria (international & Middle Eastern cuisine)
Coffee shops (Starbucks, Tim Hortons)
Special dietary meal services for patients
🍽 Nearby restaurants:
- Riyadh: The Globe, Najd Village, Piatto Italian
- Jeddah: Al Nakheel, Steak House, Paul Bakery
- Madinah: Arabesque Restaurant, Swiss House
For patients on a strict diet, special meal arrangements can be made with hospital staff.
8. How Can I Get Around the City During My Stay?
Transportation Options:
Uber / Careem: Affordable and widely available in Saudi Arabia
Taxis: Available outside hotels and hospitals
Hospital shuttle: Upon request for patients with scheduled appointments
Car rental: Available at airports & city centers for those who prefer to drive
💡 Tip: If you’re visiting for an extended period, renting a car or using a private chauffeur service may be more convenient.
9. Are There Language Assistance Services?
Yes, KFSH&RC provides translation services for international patients. Our staff speaks Arabic and English, and interpreters are available for:
🌍 French
🌍 Urdu/Hindi
🌍 Filipino (Tagalog)
🌍 Turkish
If you need a translator, please request one in advance through International Patient Services.
Travel & Visa Information for International Patients
King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSH&RC)
For international patients seeking treatment at KFSH&RC, understanding the travel and visa requirements is essential. Below is a comprehensive guide covering everything from visa applications to entry requirements and extensions.
1. Do I Need a Visa to Receive Medical Treatment in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, all international patients (excluding GCC nationals) must apply for a Medical Treatment Visa to enter Saudi Arabia for healthcare purposes.
Who Needs a Visa?
✅ Patients from non-GCC countries (Middle East, Asia, Africa, Europe, etc.)
❌ GCC nationals (UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar) can travel without a visa but must have KFSH&RC approval.
2. What Type of Visa Do I Need for Medical Treatment?
You need a Medical Treatment Visa (تأشيرة العلاج), issued by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). This visa is specifically for non-Saudi patients traveling for medical care.
🛑 Note: A tourist visa is not valid for medical treatment at KFSH&RC.
3. How Do I Apply for a Medical Treatment Visa?
Step 1: Submit Medical Records to KFSH&RC
Before applying for a visa, you must submit your medical reports and diagnosis documents for evaluation.
Step 2: Receive a Medical Treatment Authorization Letter
Once KFSH&RC approves your treatment request, they will issue a Medical Treatment Authorization Letter that is required for the visa application.
Step 3: Apply for a Visa Through MOFA & the Saudi Embassy
With the authorization letter, you must apply for the visa via the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) website or your nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate.
📌 Required Documents for Visa Application:
✔ Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
✔ Medical Treatment Authorization Letter from KFSH&RC
✔ Recent medical reports
✔ Proof of financial ability to cover medical expenses
✔ Completed visa application form (provided by the Saudi Embassy)
✔ Passport-sized photographs
✔ Flight itinerary (if required)
Step 4: Wait for Visa Approval
Visa processing time is typically 5–15 business days, depending on your country of application.
4. Can a Family Member or Companion Travel With Me?
Yes, medical visas allow one companion to travel with the patient. Additional companions may require special approval.
Who Can Be a Companion?
✔ A first-degree relative (spouse, parent, sibling, child)
✔ A medical escort or caregiver (for patients requiring assistance)
📌 Companion Visa Requirements:
- Valid passport
- Proof of relationship to the patient
- Visa application (processed alongside the patient’s application)
💡 Tip: If you need extra family members to accompany you, a visitor visa may be required.
5. How Long Can I Stay in Saudi Arabia With a Medical Visa?
The validity of a Medical Treatment Visa depends on the treatment plan:
- Short-term medical cases: Visa issued for 30 to 90 days
- Extended treatment cases: Visa can be renewed or extended based on medical needs
📌 If your treatment requires a longer stay, you must apply for an extension before your visa expires.
6. Can I Extend My Medical Visa if My Treatment Takes Longer?
Yes, if your medical treatment requires an extended stay, you can request a visa extension through KFSH&RC and the Saudi Ministry of Interior (MOI).
How to Apply for a Visa Extension?
1️⃣ Obtain a letter from KFSH&RC confirming the need for continued treatment
2️⃣ Submit a visa extension request through MOFA or Jawazat (General Directorate of Passports)
3️⃣ Pay any required visa renewal fees (if applicable)
4️⃣ Receive approval from Saudi immigration authorities
📌 Processing times for visa extensions vary, so apply at least 2 weeks before your current visa expires.
7. What Are the COVID-19 or Health Requirements for Travel?
As of the latest regulations, the Saudi Arabian government has removed most COVID-19 restrictions. However, travelers must:
✔ Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date
✔ Have a valid medical travel insurance policy (if required)
✔ Check for any updated health entry requirements before traveling
📌 For updated health policies, check with the Saudi Ministry of Health (MOH) or your local Saudi Embassy.
8. What Are the Nearest Airports to KFSH&RC?
Depending on the hospital branch, the nearest international airports are:
🏥 KFSH&RC Riyadh:
✈ King Khalid International Airport (RUH) – 40 minutes from hospital
🏥 KFSH&RC Jeddah:
✈ King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) – 30 minutes from hospital
🏥 KFSH&RC Madinah:
✈ Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) – 25 minutes from hospital
💡 Tip: Contact International Patient Services if you need airport transfer assistance.
9. What Happens Upon Arrival in Saudi Arabia?
Upon arrival, patients must complete immigration & customs procedures:
1️⃣ Present passport, visa, and medical authorization letter
2️⃣ Undergo health screening (if applicable)
3️⃣ Clear customs and collect luggage
4️⃣ Arrange transportation to KFSH&RC (Uber, Careem, taxi, or hospital shuttle)
10. What If My Visa Application Is Rejected?
Visa denials can happen due to incomplete documentation or eligibility issues. If your visa is rejected:
1️⃣ Contact KFSH&RC’s International Patient Services for guidance
2️⃣ Verify all required documents are correct and complete
3️⃣ Reapply with additional supporting documents
4️⃣ Consult with the Saudi Embassy for alternative options
💡 Tip: Applying early and ensuring accurate documentation reduces the risk of visa rejection.
Comprehensive FAQ: Appointment & Treatment Process
1. How Do I Book an Appointment at KFSH&RC?
International patients must follow these steps:
- Submit Medical Records – Send medical reports, test results, and a referral letter from your current physician.
- Medical Evaluation – KFSH&RC specialists review your case and determine eligibility.
- Appointment Confirmation – If approved, you receive a scheduled appointment and a Medical Treatment Authorization Letter, which is required for visa processing.
Medical records can be submitted through the hospital’s official website, email, or by contacting the International Patient Services Department.
2. Do I Need a Referral to Get an Appointment?
Yes, KFSH&RC primarily accepts patients through referrals from doctors or hospitals. Self-referrals are rarely accepted unless the case is urgent or meets specific hospital criteria.
3. Can I Get a Virtual Consultation Before Traveling?
Yes. KFSH&RC offers telemedicine services for international patients who require an initial assessment or second opinion before traveling. Patients must submit medical documents in advance for review before the virtual consultation.
4. How Long Does It Take to Get an Appointment?
The waiting time depends on the treatment type, urgency, and specialist availability:
- Urgent Cases (e.g., cancer, transplants, critical surgeries) – 7 to 14 days.
- Routine Specialist Consultations – 2 to 6 weeks.
Patients requiring faster scheduling should inform International Patient Services, who may assist in prioritizing cases based on medical urgency.
5. What Documents Do I Need for My First Appointment?
Patients must bring:
- Passport (with valid visa)
- Referral letter (if applicable)
- Medical records and diagnostic test results (X-rays, MRIs, blood tests)
- List of current medications
- Health insurance details (if applicable)
- Medical Treatment Authorization Letter (provided by KFSH&RC)
Medical documents should be in English or Arabic. If they are in another language, certified translations may be required.
6. What Happens During My First Consultation?
Upon arrival, patients must:
- Register at the International Patient Services Desk.
- Meet their assigned medical coordinator.
- Undergo initial tests or evaluations.
- Receive a detailed treatment plan and estimated duration.
Additional tests or specialist consultations may be scheduled if necessary.
7. What Treatments Are Available for International Patients?
KFSH&RC provides specialized care in:
- Cancer Treatment (Oncology) – Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgical oncology.
- Cardiology & Heart Surgery – Cardiac surgery, angioplasty, valve replacements.
- Organ Transplantation – Kidney, liver, heart, lung transplants.
- Neurology & Neurosurgery – Brain tumors, stroke management, spinal cord disorders.
- Pediatric Specialties – Pediatric oncology, pediatric cardiology.
- Genetic & Rare Diseases – Gene therapy, genetic diagnostics.
- Other Specialties – Orthopedics, gastroenterology, endocrinology.
If a treatment is not listed, contact International Patient Services for confirmation.
8. How Long Will My Treatment Take?
The duration varies based on the condition:
- Routine procedures & checkups – 1 to 3 days.
- Surgery & hospitalization – 5 to 14 days.
- Long-term treatments (chemotherapy, rehabilitation) – Several weeks to months.
The treating physician will provide an estimated timeline after assessment.
9. What If I Need Additional Tests or Procedures?
If further tests or second opinions are needed:
- Additional diagnostic procedures (MRI, CT scan, biopsies) will be scheduled.
- A revised treatment plan may be issued based on new findings.
- Some tests may require a longer hospital stay or additional consultations.
10. Can I Reschedule or Cancel My Appointment?
Yes, appointments can be rescheduled or canceled through:
- International Patient Call Center
- Online Patient Portal
Patients should notify KFSH&RC at least 72 hours in advance for any changes.
11. Will I Have a Dedicated Coordinator for My Treatment?
Yes. Every international patient is assigned a Patient Liaison Officer, responsible for:
- Scheduling appointments.
- Coordinating tests and procedures.
- Arranging translation services.
- Assisting with hospital processes.
This ensures a smoother experience for international patients.
12. What Happens After My Treatment?
Post-treatment steps include:
- A medical summary report detailing procedures, medications, and follow-up care.
- Instructions on continued treatment or rehabilitation if necessary.
- Coordination with the patient’s home-country physician for ongoing care.
- Optional telemedicine follow-ups if required.
For patients requiring extended stays, KFSH&RC can assist with visa extensions.
13. How Are Follow-Ups Managed After I Return Home?
KFSH&RC offers post-treatment follow-up options:
- Telemedicine consultations for ongoing medical advice.
- Coordination with home-country doctors for local care.
- Repeat visits if additional treatment is necessary.
Patients should discuss follow-up plans with their physician before departure.
