Saudi Arabia could unlock SAR 77 billion in savings through adolescent healthcare
Investing in dedicated adolescent healthcare could yield cumulative savings of up to SAR 77 billion over the first 10 years of implementation for Saudi Arabia, according to a report by FTI Consulting.
Once a specialized healthcare model reaches full implementation, the country could achieve ongoing annual savings of SAR 11 billion to SAR 14 billion. The analysis highlights that young people aged 10 to 19 represent the fastest-growing youth cohort in the country, expanding by 8% since 2016.
Despite this growth, existing medical services remain largely split between pediatric and adult care, leaving young people in a gap that fails to address their specific needs. Reports show that 70% of preventable adult deaths from noncommunicable diseases originate from habits and risks formed during youth.
This is no small issue for Saudi Arabia, especially because the Kingdom’s adolescent population has been growing rapidly in recent years. In particular, the population of adolescents from 10 to 19 years-old has grown by 8% since 2016, faster than any other youth cohorts, including children under 9 and young adults, ages 20 to 29.
This sharp growth underscores the need for health services tailored to address the specific needs of this population group. The report notes that adolescent care should be designed to reflect the physical, emotional, and social transitions of this life stage, integrating preventive, behavioral, and mental health services that actively engage young people in their own health journey.
Unique health burdens and lifestyle risks
The report reveals a distinct medical profile for young people in the country. Psychological health conditions account for roughly 43% of total disability-adjusted life years among adolescents, compared to 14% among adults. In a national survey of over 12,500 young people, 14% reported symptoms of depression, yet fewer than 15% of Saudis with mental health disorders receive lifetime treatment.
Physical health concerns are also accelerating. Only 54.8% of adolescents maintain a healthy weight, while 30.0% are overweight or obese. Physical inactivity is widespread, with only 13.7% engaging in at least 30 minutes of daily activity. Nicotine use is evolving as well, with nearly one in five male adolescents using or susceptible to using nicotine products, driven by a shift toward newer electronic alternatives.
Structural gaps in existing care systems
Adolescents frequently experience issues transitioning from pediatric to adult care. In Saudi Arabia, this transition often occurs at age 14, compared to the international benchmark of 19. Around 44% of healthcare providers report having no formal training in adolescent health, and only 53.9% feel equipped to handle their unique medical needs. One in four young people reports difficulty accessing health services.
Currently, very few specialized youth clinics exist in the Kingdom. The first dedicated general clinic opened in 2008 at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, followed by limited additional openings primarily located in the capital.
Designing a modern model for youth care
To address these challenges, FTI Consulting outlines various areas to address. The proposal recommends dividing the population into distinct sub-groups to deliver targeted care ranging from basic prevention to chronic disease management.
In addition, it advocates for engaging adolescent groups through workshops or focus groups, defining clear health outcomes, and ensuring clear accountability across stakeholders, among other principles.
It is also important to integrate digital platforms, such as AI tools for early mental health screenings and specialized telehealth services. Care should expand beyond traditional hospitals into schools and community centers to build trust and ensure privacy.
When it comes to health reforms, there is already strong proof that these kind of interventions work. Global benchmarks, including Australia’s Headspace network and France’s Maisons des Adolescents, demonstrate how integrated centers offering medical, mental, and social support under one roof lead to earlier intervention and improved outcomes.
Long-term returns beyond financial savings
The economic impact of reforming youth care combines direct health system cost reductions with broader productivity gains as healthier cohorts enter the workforce.
According to FTI Consulting, the benefits extend beyond financial metrics by creating a triple dividend. This includes immediate improvements in well-being, stronger human capital for future economic development, and intergenerational benefits that foster healthier families across Saudi Arabia.
