The evolving landscape of end-of-life care in Saudi Arabia: A socio-cultural, religious and legal perspective

The increase in life expectancy over the last century has brought with it new challenges of providing quality care towards end-of-life. Saudi Arabia has embraced this new challenge and incorporated it within its governing Islamic principles. The country has invested heavily in building the necessary legislative framework and infrastructural support systems to not only enable provision of palliative care but also improve the quality of end-of-life care. Saudi Arabia's commitment to enhancing end-of-life care, aligned with its Vision 2030, reflects a dedication to providing comprehensive, compassionate support to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses and to their families. The country has found innovative local solutions in order to address the challenges unique to its population. It has made significant progress in recognising the importance of palliative care and addressing the cultural, legal, and ethical aspects of end-of-life care appropriate to its ethos.