MBBS in Saudi Arabia

King Saud University, College of Medicine 2025-26

Saudi Arabia

King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh

The College of Medicine, King Saud University, located at Riyadh, is the first medical college in Saudi Arabia, established in 1967 (1387 AH).

About King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh

Since then, it has formed one of the cornerstones in the medical education and development of health care in the Kingdom. In 1974, the establishment of the women’s section signaled an important drive toward increased female participation in medical education.

King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh – Table of Contents

About
Advantages
Ranking
Departments And Course Duration
Facilities And Infrastructure
Fee Structure
Required Documents
Eligibility Criteria
Admission Process
Benefits
Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students
FAQ’s

Two years later, in 1976 (1396 AH), King Abdulaziz University Hospital—previously known as Prince Talal Hospital—was integrated with the college, providing students with an advanced clinical training environment. The modern campus and King Khalid University Hospital were officially inaugurated by King Khalid on January 12, 1982 (17 Rabi’ al-Awwal 1402 AH), further enhancing the institution’s capacity for medical education, research, and healthcare service.

King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh Accreditations, Affiliations, Recognitions

Within the years, it has produced over 5,000 physicians and more than 1,400 medical specialists through its Fellowship and postgraduate programs. It has continued to achieve international standards in the training and research of medicine. In 2009, it attained global recognition by attaining a rank of 79th among medical schools worldwide in the Times Higher Education rankings-a feat parallelled by no Middle Eastern institution.

During the 2021–2022 academic year (1443–1444 AH), the college’s undergraduate program enrolled 1,868 students, including 1,093 male and 775 female students. In addition, 987 postgraduate students were registered across 117 fellowship programs, two Ph.D. programs, four master’s degrees, and three diploma tracks, reflecting the institution’s commitment to academic diversity and professional advancement.

That same year, 286 new students were admitted to the undergraduate program, while 273 students successfully graduated, along with 294 postgraduate trainees completing advanced specialization.

King Saud University, College of Medicine boasts many esteemed graduates who have pursued international fellowships and enhanced their medical training in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia. These graduates moved on to assume major leadership roles within Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system and were sizable contributors toward the Kingdom’s medical innovation, public health development, and national healthcare leadership over recent decades.

Advantages of Studying in King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh

Academic and Research Benefits

Expert faculty: Highly qualified Faculty with a large component of Professors having obtained advanced degrees from renowned international universities.

Research focus: This is a college dedicated to being a research facility, focusing on the production of scientific publication and comprising many research centers and institutes.

Innovation and funding: According to Educatly, KSU is hugely funded for research projects and in collaboration with industries and government.

Practical and Clinical Benefits

Extensive training facilities: It has huge practical exposure through affiliation with King Abdulaziz University Hospital and King Khalid University Hospital.

Prestigious medical school: The College of Medicine is the highest among private medical schools in the Saudi Kingdom.

Other Benefits

Prestigious reputation: King Saud University is among the most prestigious universities in the Middle East, and its College of Medicine is known as one of the most prestigious throughout the region, according to Educatly.

Bilingual education: a possibility to learn both in English and Arabic.

Separate facilities: At RMC Education, women students study separately from male students under female faculty members, with access to male faculty provided through a closed television network.

Latest Notifications:

King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh – Ranking

The College of Medicine, KSU, Riyadh, has been ranked among the best medical schools in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East based on criteria for excellence in academic education, research, and clinical practices. It was established in 1967 (1387 AH) as the first medical college in the Kingdom, thus shaping the nation’s healthcare and the medical education landscape in this country.

During the whole history of the College, it moved step by step, developing itself and gaining distinction in accordance with the strategy of King Saud University. It is the mission of the college to pay attention to community participation, the establishment of a complete quality system, and gaining accreditation by recognized national and international academic organizations, thereby lifting its ranking to an internationally recognized status.

The college’s strategic planning framework is continuously updated to reflect new educational trends and medical advancements. This dynamic approach ensures that the college remains at the forefront of innovation and aligns closely with King Saud University’s institutional goals and the broader Saudi Vision 2030 initiative.

This national vision aims to develop a world-class education system and reinforce the Kingdom’s position as a global hub for scientific research and innovation. The College of Medicine also contributes to the realization of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud’s aspiration to position King Saud University among the top ten universities worldwide.

This is made possible through the effort invested by the faculty, researchers, administrative staff, and academic departments within the college. Together, they cultivate the commitment to leadership, excellence, creativity, and quality in all areas at the core of the mandate of the college: medical education, research, and community service.

Regarding the patient services, the King Saud University Medical City is attached to the College of Medicine. Advanced health care services in the community find a hub in the medical city. The medical city will provide a center of excellence in clinical training through faculty physicians and clinicians as well as in patient care and applied medical research.

The College of Medicine has also attained many scientific and academic landmarks, both regionally and internationally. It is still continuing to expand into more postgraduate and fellow programs, advancing scientific methodologies and evidence-based learning methods in order to keep pace with the international growth of medicine.

Its research output significantly contributed to Saudi Arabia’s scientific visibility and ranking worldwide in the health sciences, further solidifying its reputation as a leading medical education and innovation hub. Today, as the college celebrates in excess of five decades of distinction, it stands as an emblem of academic heritage and progressive excellence.

Its enduring success has been secured by the unstinting support of the King Saud University administration, which has continued to provide the resources, infrastructure, and policy backing essential for sustained advance.

The College of Medicine would like to extend its sincerest gratitude to the university’s leadership and to all who have helped in growing and fostering it. With a vision looking toward the future and with a solid foundation in excellence, the college continues to be committed to its mission of educating future physicians, advancing medical research, and being in the forefront of healthcare delivery-not only in Saudi Arabia but also in the global medical community.

Departments And Course Duration in King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh

MBBS Departments & Course Duration

King Saud University, College of Medicine – Riyadh

The Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program at the College of Medicine, King Saud University (KSU) is one of the most prestigious and comprehensive medical programs in Saudi Arabia. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in medical sciences, clinical skills, ethical practice, and research proficiency—preparing them to become competent and compassionate physicians capable of serving both the local and global community.

Course Duration

The MBBS program spans six (6) years, followed by a one-year compulsory internship in accredited teaching hospitals under the supervision of experienced medical professionals.

Years 1–2: Pre-clinical phase – focused on basic medical sciences and foundational knowledge.

Years 3–5: Clinical phase – emphasizes clinical exposure, patient interaction, and rotations across major hospital departments.

Year 6: Advanced clinical training and integrated learning.

Year 7: Internship – hands-on experience in various medical and surgical departments.

Departments

The College of Medicine comprises a wide range of academic departments that contribute to the teaching, training, and research components of the MBBS program. These include both basic science and clinical departments, ensuring a holistic and multidisciplinary education.

Basic Medical Science Departments

Department of Anatomy
Department of Physiology
Department of Biochemistry
Department of Pharmacology
Department of Pathology
Department of Microbiology and Immunology
Department of Medical Education
Department of Family and Community Medicine
Clinical Science Departments
Department of Internal Medicine
Department of Surgery
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Department of Pediatrics
Department of Ophthalmology
Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery
Department of Orthopedic Surgery
Department of Dermatology
Department of Psychiatry
Department of Radiology
Department of Anesthesiology
Department of Emergency Medicine
Department of Urology
Department of Neurosciences (Neurology and Neurosurgery)
Department of Medical Genetics

Curriculum Highlights

Integrated Modular Curriculum: Blends basic sciences with clinical knowledge from the early years.

Problem-Based Learning (PBL): Encourages critical thinking and application of medical concepts.

Clinical Rotations: Conducted at King Khalid University Hospital and King Abdulaziz University Hospital.

Research Component: Students engage in supervised medical research projects to develop analytical and investigative skills.

Elective Training: Opportunities for local and international electives in reputed medical institutions.

Degree Awarded

Upon successful completion of the six-year program and the internship, graduates are awarded the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree, recognized by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) and internationally respected across medical councils worldwide.

Latest Updates:

Facilities And Infrastructure in King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh

King Saud University, College of Medicine – Riyadh

The College of Medicine at King Saud University (KSU) offers state-of-the-art facilities and world-class infrastructure designed to foster excellence in medical education, research, and healthcare services. As one of the oldest and most prestigious medical schools in Saudi Arabia, the college has continuously upgraded its learning environment to meet international academic and clinical standards.

Campus and Academic Buildings

The College of Medicine is located within the King Saud University campus in Riyadh, featuring modern, purpose-built facilities equipped with advanced teaching and research technologies. The main academic complex includes:

Spacious lecture halls with digital smartboard technology and audiovisual systems.
Well-designed tutorial and seminar rooms for interactive and problem-based learning sessions.
Modern simulation centers and clinical skills laboratories that provide realistic training in patient care and medical procedures.
Dedicated faculty offices and academic support centers to facilitate mentoring and student guidance.

Laboratories and Research Facilities

KSU’s College of Medicine places a strong emphasis on scientific research and innovation. To support this mission, it offers:

Advanced biomedical laboratories for Anatomy, Physiology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Pathology.
Central Research Laboratories equipped with high-end diagnostic and analytical tools for medical research.
King Abdullah Institute for Medical Research (KAIMR) and other specialized centers promoting translational and clinical research.
Dedicated molecular biology, genetics, and immunology labs supporting graduate and faculty research projects.

Teaching Hospitals

The college is affiliated with two premier hospitals that serve as teaching and training centers for medical students and residents:

King Khalid University Hospital (KKUH) – A tertiary care hospital offering a wide range of specialized clinical services and facilities.
King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH) – Renowned for advanced medical care, clinical research, and postgraduate medical training.
These hospitals provide extensive opportunities for clinical rotations, internships, and real-world patient exposure under the guidance of highly qualified consultants and professors.

Library and Learning Resources

The Medical Library at King Saud University is one of the largest and most resourceful medical libraries in the region. It provides:

Extensive collections of medical textbooks, journals, and electronic databases such as PubMed and ScienceDirect.
E-learning resources, digital archives, and online medical simulations.
Quiet reading areas, group study rooms, and computer terminals for academic and research purposes.
Access to Saudi Digital Library (SDL) and global medical literature for continuous learning.

Hostels and Student Accommodation

KSU provides comfortable and secure on-campus accommodation for both male and female students. The hostels feature:

Fully furnished rooms with internet access.
Common lounges, study halls, and recreation spaces.
Separate residential complexes for male and female students.
24/7 security and maintenance services ensure a safe and conducive living environment.

Cafeteria and Student Facilities

The college offers a variety of cafeterias and food courts serving healthy meals and refreshments. In addition, students have access to:

Student lounges and common rooms for relaxation and interaction.
Bookstores and stationery shops on campus.
Medical services and counseling centers for student well-being.

Sports and Extracurricular Facilities

To encourage holistic development, KSU provides excellent sports and recreational amenities, including:

Modern gymnasiums, football fields, swimming pools, and indoor sports halls.
Facilities for basketball, tennis, volleyball, and athletics.
Support for student clubs, cultural events, and volunteer medical campaigns that enhance leadership and teamwork skills.

Technology and Digital Infrastructure

The College of Medicine integrates cutting-edge technology into all aspects of education and management:

E-learning platforms and virtual classrooms for blended and remote learning.
Simulation-based learning software for clinical practice.
High-speed campus-wide Wi-Fi and digital access to academic resources.
Online academic portals for course materials, registration, and examination results.

Environment and Sustainability

The campus maintains a green and eco-friendly environment, with landscaped gardens and energy-efficient infrastructure. The university’s facilities are designed to promote sustainability while offering a comfortable and inspiring learning atmosphere.

The College of Medicine at King Saud University combines modern infrastructure, advanced technology, and world-class clinical training to create a dynamic educational environment that supports students’ intellectual, professional, and personal growth.

Official site For King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh: Click Here

King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh Fee Structure

Approximately fee structure will be 12 lakhs to 15 lakhs.

Required Documents For Admission in King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh

Birth Certificate
10th Marksheet
12th Marksheet
Passport Copy
Offer Letter from the Saudi university
5 passport size photographs
Bank Fee Receipt
Police Clearance Certificate (if required by the university)
Statement of Purpose (has to be attested by a governing body)
Migration Certificate (if required by the university)

Eligibility Criteria For Admission in King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh

The applicant must have completed 12 years of schooling or equivalent education.
Students must have studied Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as main subjects in high school.
A minimum aggregate of 70%–75% in science subjects is usually required.
The applicant must be at least 17 years old at the time of admission.
Students must provide official transcripts and certificates from their previous school.
English proficiency is required; students may need to show proof through IELTS, TOEFL, or an English-medium certificate.
Indian students must meet the Medical Council of India (MCI/NMC) eligibility norms for studying MBBS abroad.
Applicants may have to appear for an interview or assessment conducted by the university (If required)

Admission Process For King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh

Fill the application form the university’s official website.

Submit the original documents and apply for the course which the student wants to study.

The university will review and process the application.

Once you receive the offer letter, print a copy of it.

Pay the application processing fee as required.

After admission is confirmed to the MBBS program, apply for a student visa right away.

Inform the university about the arrival date in Saudi Arabia.

Get more details about the colleges in Kyrgyzstan: Click Here

Benefits of Studying at King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh

The College of Medicine at King Saud University is indeed one of the most prestigious and highly regarded institutions for academic excellence, innovative research, and clinical expertise, regionally and internationally. It is the first medical college in Saudi Arabia and still maintains standards in medical education across the region. The students here enjoy an enriching academic environment, world-class facilities, and great career opportunities.

1. Prestigious Reputation and Legacy

The KSU College of Medicine was founded in 1967, always upholding excellence, and was ranked as the first medical school in Saudi Arabia.

The college constantly holds top positions in rankings among medical schools in the Middle East and is internationally recognized for its high standards in education.

Its graduates are highly valued by both national and international health institutions.

2. Full & Modern MBBS Curriculum

The six-year MBBS program is based on a student-centered integrated curriculum combining basic sciences and clinical knowledge with practical patient care.

The learning methodology emphasizes PBL, evidence-based medicine, and early clinical exposure to facilitate the growth of students into capable, ethical, and compassionate physicians.

It is regularly updated to keep pace with the updated international frameworks of medical education and the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

3. Access to top world teaching hospitals

This clinical training is extensively provided at two of the most advanced medical centers in the Kingdom: King Khalid University Hospital (KKUH) and King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH).

These are exposure widening from different hospitals, advanced health care technology, to real-life patient cases in a variety of medical specialities.

Clinical rotation and internships added to simulation-based learning will ensure that graduates are professionally ready for medical practice.

4. High Intensity of Research and Innovation

The college has a strong research culture that encourages projects under expert supervision for students.

This is where the state-of-the-art facilities like King Abdullah Institute for Medical Research, KAIMR, and many specialized laboratories are housed.

Normally, the students publish their research in indexed international journals and thus attain recognition in the scientific community.

5. International Recognition and Opportunities

It ensures that the KSU’s College of Medicine is nationally and internationally accredited to ensure its degrees are globally recognized.

Further pursuances are also in residency and fellowship programs abroad, such as in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia.

Such international collaborations and exchange programs expose students to global medical practices and research trends.

6. Experienced Faculty and Mentorship

The college has a distinguished faculty that consists of both local and international professors, consultants, and researchers.

Moreover, faculty are teachers and mentors who guide students in clinical, academic, and professional development.

A low student-to-faculty ratio ensures personalized learning and close academic guidance.

7. Sophisticated Learning Environment

With KSU, modern classrooms, simulation labs, e-learning tools, and digital resources are provided to make for an enriching and modern academic experience.

It enhances the students’ capacity to learn and do research through the access of Saudi Digital Library and other databases.

The campus environment fosters collaboration, critical thinking, and innovation.

8. Scholarships and Financial Assistance

It grants scholarships to meritorious students and includes financial assistance, tuition fee waiver, and stipend for research.

International students are also given scholarships based on academic excellence, thus making high-quality medical education accessible at an affordable cost.

9. Holistic Student Life and Well-being

The students have a well-rounded college life, with involvement in sports, recreational, and even cultural clubs.

Trained student support services and counseling programs are available to students for their academic and personal development.

On-campus hostels accommodate both male and female students, ensuring safety and comfort.

10. Excellent Career Prospects

The graduates from KSU’s College of Medicine are highly employable and in demand across the Saudi Arabian healthcare sector and beyond. Indeed, many of the alumni assume great responsibility in leading medical institutions, government healthcare organizations, and research bodies. A good reputation and network of the college open doors for advanced postgraduate studies and international medical careers.

The College of Medicine at King Saud University offers students an unrivaled blend of academic excellence, world exposure, clinical experience, and professional development. The study herein offers solid grounds in medicine, nurtures leadership, innovation, and lifelong learning-cum-attributes essential to excel in the dynamic healthcare environment.

Privileges And Benefits for Indian Students in King Saud University, College of Medicine Riyadh

King Saud University, College of Medicine – Riyadh

Besides academics, culture, and profession, the Indian students at King Saud University College of Medicine have several added advantages. Equipped with one of the best education systems, global exposure, and a friendly environment, it is among the top destinations for international medical aspirants from India.

1. A Globally Recognised and Accredited Degree

The KSU MBBS is internationally recognized, fully accredited by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties, and other global medical bodies.

Thus, the graduates can appear for various international licensing exams such as USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), MCCQE (Canada), and the FMGE/NExT (India) to be registered or licensed to practice medicine in respective countries, including India.

The curriculum is accredited by the World Federation for Medical Education and the World Directory of Medical Schools.

The MBBS course for Indian students is integrated and comprehensive, relating theory to clinical exposure.

The curriculum will follow international models, including Problem-Based Learning, simulation-based practice, and early clinical exposure.

The language of instruction is English, which makes classes comfortable for international students.

2. Clinical Training at World-Class Facilities

Very hands-on learning for Indian students is arranged in King Khalid University Hospital and King Abdulaziz University Hospital, among the most highly advanced medical centers in Saudi Arabia.

These hospitals would expose them to a wide range of both medical and surgical specialties, inclusive of advanced technologies, and real-life patient care with expert supervision.

3. Affordable Education with Scholarships

The study of medicine within KSU is thus very affordable compared to other Western countries, offering world-class education at a reasonable cost.

KSU offers various scholarships to talented international students, covering all tuition fees, with a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, and accommodation.

Full scholarships could be supported by the Saudi government or King Saud University, and may be considered for talented Indian students.

4. Mentorship and Academic Support

Academic advising, mentoring programs, and counseling services are provided to aid international students to be productive and successful at the College of Medicine.

The faculty members are approachable and give personal guidance that would be helpful in research matters, examinations, and professional development.

5. International Exposure and Cultural Diversity

KSU has on its campus a representative number of students originating from a great many countries, thus permitting a multicultural academic experience.

Thus, knowledge and ideas of Indian students are interchanged with their counterparts from the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia, which enrich their international vision.

Student events, medical conferences, and exchange programs within the university facilitate cross-cultural understanding.

6. Research and Innovation Opportunities

The students are also encouraged to take part in research projects, publish scientific papers, and work with the faculty in research centers such as King Abdullah Institute for Medical Research.

State-of-the-art laboratories and digital resources ensure access for better research training and academic growth.

7. Comfortable Accommodation and Student Life

KSU provides fully equipped separate hostels for male and female international students in comfortable, safe, and convenient ways.

Facilities include access to Wi-Fi, study areas, cafeterias, gyms, and recreational areas.

Furthermore, the university promotes student clubs, cultural societies, and sports activities that will keep the Indian students’ lifestyles in balance.

8. Excellent prospects of residency and career

Graduates from KSU will be in high demand in Saudi Arabia and internationally, with the opportunity to get employed in the highest-ranked hospitals or even go abroad to pursue postgraduate medical training.

Many Indian students coming out from KSU get their residencies successfully in the USA, UK, Canada, and India.

The international partnerships and alumni network of the college open the gate to advanced medical research and clinical fellowships.

9. Strong Support for International Students

The Deanship of Admission and Registration, as well as the International Student Affairs Office, continually support the integration into campus life, while all documentation and visa processing is done along with academic assistance. It ensures equal opportunities for all international students in academics, extracurricular activities, and healthcare.

Indian students at King Saud University’s College of Medicine enjoy an internationally recognized degree, reasonably affordable education, advanced clinical exposure, and wide career prospects. In fact, the academic excellence, international recognition, cultural inclusiveness, and strong institutional support combine to make KSU one of the most sought-after destinations for Indian medical aspirants in the Middle East.

FAQ’s

What is the language of instruction?

The medium of instruction is English, especially for international students. However, students also learn basic Arabic medical terminology to communicate effectively with patients during clinical rotations.

Where do students receive clinical training?

Clinical training is conducted at King Khalid University Hospital (KKUH) and King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH), both part of King Saud University Medical City. These hospitals are among the top tertiary care centers in Saudi Arabia, offering hands-on experience in all major medical disciplines.

Is on-campus accommodation available?

Yes. KSU provides comfortable, secure, and gender-segregated hostels for international students.

Facilities include:

Furnished rooms with Wi-Fi.
Study areas, cafeterias, gyms, and recreation halls.
24/7 security and healthcare support.

How does the college promote student life and well-being?

The college offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, societies, and extracurricular activities, including sports, volunteer medical camps, and research symposiums.
Counseling and health services are also provided to ensure student wellness.

What are the career prospects after graduation?

Graduates from KSU’s College of Medicine are highly sought after both in Saudi Arabia and abroad. They can:

Pursue postgraduate training or residency programs locally or internationally.
Qualify for medical licensing exams in multiple countries.
Work in hospitals, research institutions, or public health organizations globally.