Qatar Tops Arab World in Health Services, Reflecting Journey from Humble Beginnings

Hamad Hospital Qatar

Qatar Tops Arab World in Health Services, reflecting journey from humble beginnings

Doha: Qatar has been ranked first in the Arab world and 18th globally in health services, according to the Numbeo Index. The ranking, based on criteria such as quality of healthcare, accessibility, infrastructure efficiency, and patient satisfaction, underscores the nation’s remarkable progress in building a modern health system from its once modest foundations. 

From a time when healthcare facilities were limited and resources scarce, Qatar has steadily invested in expanding its capacity and expertise. Today, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) plays a central role in shaping national health policies, regulating the sector, and ensuring services are integrated to achieve the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and sustainability. 

MoPH data shows that around 58,000 professionals now serve across public and private health institutions, covering medical, nursing, technical, and administrative specialties. The availability of 5,485 hospital beds reflects how far the country has come in expanding its health infrastructure to meet the demands of a growing population and rapid urban development.

Throughout 2025, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has further strengthened its position as the leading provider of specialized and secondary healthcare in Qatar. Once a modest institution, HMC has evolved into a regional model of excellence, introducing advanced technologies, forging strategic partnerships, and achieving unprecedented medical milestones. To reduce waiting times and improve access, HMC signed agreements with private hospitals, ensuring citizens receive timely care in critical specialties.

In addition, HMC opened a musculoskeletal physiotherapy clinic for seniors at the Qatar Rehabilitation Centre, reflecting its commitment to specialized services that enhance independence and quality of life for older adults. The clinic offers therapeutic programs designed to improve strength, mobility, and balance.

Qatar’s leadership in healthcare was further highlighted in October 2025 when HMC hosted the Middle East Forum on Person-Centred Care, a platform for global experts to share best practices in delivering integrated, sustainable, and human-focused health services.

Preventive care has also seen remarkable success. The National Immunisation Programme continues to achieve coverage rates exceeding 95% for essential childhood vaccines, a testament to effective policies, awareness campaigns, and community commitment. Meanwhile, MoPH launched a five-year national action plan to strengthen food monitoring and surveillance, earning renewed international accreditation for inspection and sampling under ISO/IEC 17020 standards.

Digital innovation has added another layer of progress. The launch of the LBAIH application has transformed patient experiences, allowing individuals to manage appointments, access health records, view test results, and receive reminders with ease.