Health & Emergencies الصحة والطوارئ

Having the right vocabulary for health and emergencies in Saudi Arabic can be critical when living or traveling in the Kingdom. This topic covers 6 essential phrases for medical situations — from describing symptoms with عندي ألم (Indi alam — I have pain) to calling for emergency services with اتصلوا بالإسعاف (Ittasilu bil-is'af — Call an ambulance). These phrases work at Saudi hospitals, pharmacies, and in urgent situations across the country.

Key Saudi Arabic phrases

Frequently asked questions

How do you say 'I need a doctor' in Saudi Arabic?

Say "محتاج دكتور" (Muhtaj duktoor — I need a doctor) or urgently "أحتاج طبيب فوراً" (Ahtaj tabib fawran — I need a doctor immediately). Major Saudi hospitals have English-speaking staff, but basic Arabic phrases help at smaller clinics and in emergencies.

How do you say 'call an ambulance' in Saudi Arabic?

Say "اتصلوا بالإسعاف" (Ittasilu bil-is'af — Call an ambulance) or "اتصلوا على 911" (Ittasilu 'ala 911 — Call 911). The unified emergency number in Saudi Arabia is 911, handling police, ambulance, and fire services.

How do you say 'I have an allergy' in Saudi Arabic?

Say "عندي حساسية من..." (Indi hassasiyya min... — I have an allergy to...) followed by the item. For example: "عندي حساسية من الفول السوداني" (I'm allergic to peanuts). Always carry a written note of serious allergies when traveling in Saudi Arabia.

What are the emergency numbers in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia's unified emergency number is 911 (police, ambulance, fire). The Saudi Red Crescent ambulance can also be reached at 997. Knowing "أنا في حالة طوارئ" (Ana fi halat tawari' — I am in an emergency) is an important phrase to have ready.