Saudi Life Expectancy Rises to 78.8 Years Ahead of 2030 Target
The Kingdom’s life expectancy has increased from 74 to 78.8 years since 2016, with a national goal of reaching 80 by 2030.
Saudi Arabia has recorded a steady rise in life expectancy, reaching an average of 78.8 years in 2024, up from 74 years in 2016. The data was shared by the Ministry of Health to mark World Health Day, and reflects broader efforts to improve quality of life through national healthcare initiatives.
The Ministry of Health credited the increase to several ongoing reforms and awareness campaigns. These include nationwide efforts to encourage physical activity, reduce risk factors associated with chronic illness, and promote healthier dietary habits. Among the most impactful measures have been the elimination of hydrogenated oils, mandatory calorie labelling in restaurants, and efforts to reduce salt consumption in food products.
These public health strategies are part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives, which aim to increase life expectancy to 80 years within the decade. The Kingdom’s expanding healthcare infrastructure and preventive medicine initiatives are seen as central to achieving this goal.
Life expectancy worldwide has more than doubled over the past century. According to data from ‘Our World in Data’, the global average life expectancy in 1900 was just 32 years. By 2021, that figure had risen to 71 years. Saudi Arabia’s trajectory places it above the global average and among the highest in the region.
