Kuwait Healthcare Market Update

Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al Awadhi is focused on restructuring the Ministry of Health and setting up new strategies including investing in healthcare professionals, cutting-edge medical technology and equipment, and developing international partnerships.

In 2016, the Kuwait Government launched the Afia insurance program that provides generous private healthcare coverage to over 200,000 Kuwaiti retirees annually (along with public health benefits) at a cost of $1.5 billion.  In September 2024, the Ministry of Health suddenly terminated its contract with Afia, significantly impacting private hospitals that relied on the program for a large portion of their patients.  Government officials expect Afia to be relaunched by the end of this year.  This will prompt major private healthcare related entities to expand their facilities and services.

A large private rehabilitation project is under construction in central Kuwait (Sabah Al Salem area).  It includes three towers with the first tower planned to open in December 2025.  This project (30 floors) will include 96 inpatient rooms, a radiology department, a laboratory, and a rehabilitation center.  The 323,000 square foot 10-floor rehabilitation and wellness center includes 18 high-raised treatment swimming pools,100 treatment rooms, and 42 outpatient rooms.  The Champion General and Rehabilitation Hospital (https://www.championhospital.com/) is looking to partner with U.S. rehabilitation service providers.

Opportunities for U.S. rehabilitation services including:

•    Physical therapy (orthopedic and sports injuries)
•    Post-surgery rehabilitation
•    Recreational therapy (sports)

For more information, please email Commercial Specialist Rasha Al-Muhtaseb at rasha.al-muhtaseb@trade.gov