Guide
ABA in Saudi Arabia
A comprehensive guide to ABA practice in Saudi Arabia, including government programs, SCFHS licensing, training pathways, and resources for professionals and families.
What this page covers
- Overview: ABA Practice in Saudi ArabiaSaudi Arabia has invested significantly in autism and disability services over the past decade, and ABA is an increasingly important part of that investment.
- Credentialing in Saudi ArabiaThe Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) licenses healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia. Check with SCFHS and your employer whether your intended behavior-analytic role requires SCFHS classification or licensing before starting work.
- Finding a Provider in Saudi ArabiaOur provider directory, ABAEthics.org, lists US organizations only for now, so it won't help you find a provider in Saudi Arabia. Start with the resources below.
- Frequently Asked Questions: ABA in Saudi ArabiaAsk current local services about availability, the qualifications and supervision of the people delivering services, the individual approach and written fees. A directory listing or an international credential does not establish local permission to practise or suitability for a particular person.
Overview: ABA Practice in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has invested significantly in autism and disability services over the past decade, and ABA is an increasingly important part of that investment. Provider availability varies by location; ask current local services about capacity and qualifications. With a young population of over 35 million, demand for developmental services continues to grow.
The Saudi government's Vision 2030 framework includes provisions for improving disability services and inclusion. Several major hospitals and medical centers offer ABA programs, including King Faisal Specialist Hospital, King Abdulaziz Medical City, and various Ministry of Health facilities. Specialized autism centers, both government and private, provide ABA-based early intervention and ongoing therapy.
The Autism Research and Treatment Center at King Saud University has been a leading research institution, contributing to the evidence base for ABA in the Arab world. The Saudi Autism Society and other advocacy organizations have helped raise awareness and support families seeking services.
The ABA workforce in Saudi Arabia includes both Saudi practitioners and a significant number of international professionals recruited from North America, Europe, and other countries. This international workforce brings diverse training backgrounds but also creates a need for cultural adaptation of ABA practices to align with Saudi family values and social norms.