There is a specific kind of frustration that comes with being sick in a foreign country. You are tired, you are worried, and the last thing you want to do is navigate a maze of phone menus or drive to a clinic only to be told, "No appointments today."
In Saudi Arabia, that old chaotic system is dead. As part of the Vision 2030 healthcare overhaul, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has centralized almost everything into the Sehaty app. Whether you need a flu shot, a referral for back pain, or a COVID-19 booster, it all happens here.
But for expats newly arriving in 2026, or even long-time residents who haven't been sick in a while, the interface can be tricky. It’s not just "click and book." There are prerequisites, Nafath verifications, and specific "family doctor" rules you need to know.
This is your human guide to skipping the reception desk and securing a doctor’s appointment from your sofa.
The Golden Ticket: Prerequisites Before You Start
You cannot just download Sehaty and book instantly. The system needs to know you legally exist in the Kingdom. Before you open the app, ensure you have:
- Active Absher Account: Sehaty pulls your data from the Ministry of Interior. No Absher, no Sehaty.
- Active Nafath App: As of 2026, simple SMS logins are rare. You will likely need to approve your login via the Nafath app using biometrics.
- Valid Iqama/National ID: Your residency must be valid. If your Iqama has expired, the app may block you from booking non-emergency services.
Step-by-Step: How to Book a Physical Appointment
This process applies whether you are visiting a Primary Health Center (PHC) or a hospital.
Step 1: Login and Locate
Open the Sehaty app. Log in using your National ID/Iqama number. You will get a prompt on your Nafath app to verify your identity. Once in, look for the "Appointments" tab in the bottom navigation bar.
Step 2: Choose Your Service
Tap "Book Appointment". You will see a list of clinics. For general illness (fever, cough, pain), select "Family Medicine". Note: You generally cannot book a specialist (like a dermatologist or cardiologist) directly. You must see a Family Medicine doctor first to get a referral.
Step 3: The "My Doctor" Filter
The app will default to your assigned Primary Health Center (PHC) based on your neighborhood registration. Pro Tip: If you moved neighborhoods recently, you might still be linked to your old center. You can change this in the app under "Profile" > "Update Address," but it takes 24 hours to reflect.
Step 4: Select Date and Time
You will see a calendar. Green dots indicate availability. Select a time slot. Warning: If you miss three appointments without cancelling, the MOH system may temporarily suspend you from booking online.
Step 5: Confirmation
Once confirmed, you will get a QR code. Take a screenshot. When you arrive at the clinic, you often just scan this code at the kiosk to check in, completely bypassing the reception desk.
The 2026 Game Changer: Virtual Consultations
If you don't need a physical exam (e.g., for a prescription refill, rash, or mild cold), do not drive to the clinic. Sehaty’s "E-Consultation" feature is robust.
How it works: Select "Teleconsultation" instead of "Family Medicine." You will enter a virtual waiting room. A doctor will video call you within the app. They can issue sick leave (which goes directly to your employer via Qiwa) and electronic prescriptions (Wasfaty) instantly.
Troubleshooting: "Why Can't I Book?"
If you see an error message saying "No Appointments Available," don't panic. This is a common glitch, usually meaning your specific assigned center is full.
The Workaround: Try booking via the 937 phone line. Often, the phone agents have access to slots that the app doesn't show. Alternatively, check the app at 8:00 AM or 1:00 PM when new slots are typically released.
"User Not Eligible" Error: This usually appears for new expats whose insurance or medical file isn't linked yet. Visit the nearest PHC in person once with your physical ID to open a file manually. Once open, the app will work forever.
Beyond Booking: The "Health Passport"
Your appointment isn't just a meeting; it's data. After your visit, check the "Health Reports" section. You will see your lab results, prescribed meds, and even the doctor's notes. In 2026, you don't need to ask for a paper copy of your blood test results; they are already in your pocket.
Sehaty has transformed from a COVID-tracker into a full-fledged hospital in your pocket. Use it, trust it, but always remember to cancel if you can't make it—someone else needs that slot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I book an appointment for my wife/husband using my Sehaty app? A: No. Spouses are not considered "dependents" in the system in the same way children are. Your spouse needs their own Absher and Sehaty account to book appointments.
Q: Is the Sehaty app free to use? A: Yes, the app and the appointments at government Primary Health Centers are free for citizens. Residents (expats) may pay a consultation fee depending on their insurance status and the specific facility.
Q: How do I reschedule a Sehaty appointment? A: Go to "My Appointments," select the upcoming visit, and tap "Reschedule." You can do this up to 2 hours before the slot. If it's closer than 2 hours, you must cancel and book a new one.
