Autism prevalence among children in Saudi Arabia is higher than official figures
In Saudi Arabia, the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder among children is estimated to be between 1.7% and 1.8% – significantly higher than the currently cited figure of 0.6%. That is according to a new study published in the Saudi Medical Journal.
Authored by healthcare experts from the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Autism Center, the Ministry of Defense of Saudi Arabia and global consultancy Arthur D. Little, the comprehensive study examined the estimated prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among children in the Kingdom.
The study applies a structured analysis of international and regional data to provide a more realistic estimate of ASD prevalence in the Kingdom. It integrates recent peer-reviewed Saudi research, including the largest national meta-analysis to date, and compares findings against global benchmarks from countries with mature healthcare systems and advanced ASD monitoring infrastructure, such as the UK, the US, Denmark, Italy, South Korea, and Singapore.
To ensure regional relevance, the study also incorporates data from the UAE, Qatar, and Jordan. These countries share cultural and demographic similarities with Saudi Arabia and face comparable challenges in terms of underreporting and service accessibility.
By adjusting for local factors such as population structure, healthcare access, and diagnostic practices, the study offers a calibrated view of autism prevalence that reflects the unique context of Saudi Arabia.
Higher than so far assumed
Based on their analysis, the authors advise Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health to revise its public health planning, early screening initiatives, and resource allocation for autism services. “The prevalence of ASD among children in KSA is substantially higher than the official estimate of 0.6%. A calibrated range of 1.7% to 1.8% better reflects the true prevalence.”
“Reliable data is essential for delivering real impact," said Patrick Linnenbank, Partner at Arthur D. Little. “This study contributes to a clearer understanding of autism prevalence in the Kingdom and offers a constructive foundation for enhancing screening, diagnosis, and support.”
The report encourages decision-makers to prioritise continued investment in early detection efforts, expand the reach of national screening programs, and address geographic disparities that limit access to diagnosis and care in areas outside major cities. It also underscores the role of public awareness and community engagement in reducing the social stigma often associated with autism diagnoses.
“Together, these steps are critical to ensuring that more children receive timely support – and that families, educators, and healthcare professionals are equipped to respond with confidence and compassion,” said Linnenbank.
The authors of the study are: Hadeel Khamees, Patrick Linnenbank, Ankita Gulati, Arindam Vatsa, Mohammed Aldosari, and Ehsan Hoque.
