Inside Kuwait’s healthcare system: What’s changing and why it matters

Kuwait’s healthcare system has undergone a remarkable transformation over the decades, evolving into a modern, integrated network that aligns with global standards. This progress is the result of sustained investment and strategic planning, guided by the country’s leadership, which has consistently prioritised health as a cornerstone of national development.

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Today, Kuwait stands out for its advanced healthcare infrastructure, cutting-edge technologies, and comprehensive services aimed at meeting the evolving needs of its population, a WAM report said.

Expanding capacity and upgrading facilities

The Ministry of Health is implementing a national health strategy that supports Kuwait’s broader Vision 2035 development plan. This includes expanding major hospitals, increasing patient capacity, modernising healthcare centers, and integrating state-of-the-art technologies to improve efficiency, quality, and accessibility of services.

Assistant Undersecretary for Engineering Affairs and Projects, Eng. Ibrahim Al Nahham, said several major healthcare projects are currently underway or have been recently completed, signaling a significant step forward for the nation’s medical sector.

New maternity hospital sets benchmark

One of the most notable projects is the new Maternity Hospital in the Sabah Medical Zone. Built to the highest international standards, the facility is a model of modern healthcare, offering a combination of advanced medical technologies and patient-centered care.

Designed to address women’s health and neonatal services, the hospital incorporates environmentally friendly and energy-efficient construction methods. It serves as a major hub for maternal and child care in the region.

New Al Sabah Hospital: A landmark facility

Another flagship project is the new Al-Sabah Hospital, currently under construction in the same medical zone. Spanning 88,710 square meters, the facility is envisioned as a self-sufficient medical complex offering both general and specialized healthcare services.

The hospital will consist of three main towers, a parking facility, and an engineering services building. When completed, it will provide 512 inpatient beds, 105 intensive care unit (ICU) beds, 72 outpatient clinics, and a helipad for emergency evacuations. All critical departments will be integrated within the structure.

Specialised Communicable Diseases Hospital

To strengthen Kuwait’s capacity in public health and infectious disease management, the Ministry is building a new Communicable Diseases Hospital. Covering 74,000 square meters, the facility includes a main hospital building and a kitchen complex.

The hospital will offer 224 inpatient beds and feature key departments such as emergency care, radiology, pharmacy, medical records, and various support services. It is designed to handle outbreaks and specialized communicable disease cases with advanced safety protocols.

Comprehensive Cancer care at Kuwait Cancer Control Centre

A cornerstone of Kuwait’s cancer treatment capabilities is the Kuwait Cancer Control Centre, under development within the Sabah Medical Zone. Spanning 303,536 square meters, the facility will host one of the region’s most advanced oncology hospitals.

The main structure, divided into two towers, western for outpatients and eastern for inpatients, will house 618 beds. The facility includes fully automated systems and cutting-edge mechanical and electrical infrastructure to support high-level cancer care and research.

New Al Adan Hospital complex: A mega medical hub

The New Al Adan Hospital project is one of the most ambitious healthcare developments in Kuwait. Located in the Al Adan Hospital area, the complex comprises seven interconnected buildings, linked via underground tunnels.

Key components include:

• A 226,369-square-meter maternity and pediatrics hospital with 637 fixed and 471 mobile beds across 14 floors, plus a basement and a helipad.
• A surgical and central services building of 34,417 square meters with 141 mobile beds across two floors.
• A physical therapy and rehabilitation center covering 28,525 square meters over three floors and a basement.
• An eight-floor health district administration and parking building, spanning 118,696 square meters.
• Additional facilities for parking and strategic storage.

Building a future-ready healthcare system

These developments reflect Kuwait’s strong commitment to its Vision 2035, particularly in raising the standard and reach of its healthcare system. The Ministry of Health is also working to strengthen international cooperation, attract global expertise, and adopt leading healthcare models.

Efforts are underway to develop national human capital through training programs, scholarships, and partnerships with academic and health institutions both locally and internationally. These initiatives aim to prepare a new generation of healthcare professionals equipped to meet future challenges.

Kuwait’s healthcare journey, underpinned by strategic vision and modern infrastructure, continues to set a benchmark in the region, offering a model of sustainability, excellence, and innovation.