Determinants of Diabetes-Related Quality of Life in Saudi Arabia: A Nationwide Survey-Based Assessment of Demographic, Health, and Complication-Related Influences

<i>Background and Objectives</i>: Diabetes affects quality of life (QoL) in physical, psychological, and social aspects. With high prevalence rates in Saudi Arabia, this study aimed to assess QoL in adults with diabetes across different regions and identify associated factors, addressing research gaps on complications and demographic influences. <i>Materials and Methods</i>: This cross-sectional study recruited adults diagnosed with diabetes from all regions of Saudi Arabia through phone interviews and the distribution of self-administered questionnaires via social media platforms. Data on demographics, health behaviors, diabetes-related complications, comorbidities, and diabetes management were collected. QoL was assessed using the Diabetic Quality of Life (DQoL) tool. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and multivariate regression, with significance set at <i>p</i> < 0.05. <i>Results</i>: Among the 527 individuals with diabetes, 57.7% were married, 56.1% were female, 93.7% lived in urban areas, and 37.2% had at least a bachelor's degree. Common comorbidities included hypertension (29.2%) and hypercholesterolemia (22.8%). Physical activity and healthy weight were linked to improved DQoL. Diabetic complications, such as neuropathy (6.6%) and diabetic foot (4.9%), were significantly associated with lower DQoL scores. Depression was reported in 4.7% of participants and was the strongest predictor of poor QoL (β = -2.01, <i>p</i> < 0.001). Furthermore, individuals who exercised less than five times per week had significantly lower QoL scores (beta = -1.83; 95% CI = -2.56 to -1.10; <i>p</i>-value < 0.001). <i>Conclusions</i>: The study highlights the significant impact of education, health behaviors, diabetes complications, and comorbid depression on QoL. Comprehensive diabetes care that addresses both physical and psychological factors is essential for achieving improved outcomes.