Sleep Medicine and Sleep Disorders in Saudi Arabia and the Arab World

Abstract

Sleep disorders are prevalent in the Saudi population, and the demand for sleep medicine services is expected to increase significantly. The prevalence of various sleep disorders in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is comparable to that in Western countries. The practice of sleep medicine in the KSA began in the mid to late 1990s and continued to expand since. Clear guidelines for accrediting sleep medicine specialists and technologists were developed recently. Nevertheless, there remain numerous challenges to the progress of this specialty, including the lack of trained technicians, specialists, and funding. To meet these challenges, two training programs that provide structured training and certification in sleep medicine have been established. Additionally, special training programs and courses are organized for sleep technologists. In this chapter, we address the current structure of sleep medicine practice in the KSA and the Arab world, the prevalence of sleep disorders, and the strategies needed to overcome the current challenges that hamper the progress of sleep medicine as a specialty in the country.