What is Wasfaty?
Understanding the system
Wasfaty (meaning My Prescription) is Saudi Arabia's national electronic prescription system operated by NUPCO under the Ministry of Health. It replaced paper prescriptions across all government hospitals and health centers.
When a doctor prescribes medication it is entered electronically. You receive a unique code by SMS linked to your Iqama number which you present at any registered pharmacy to collect your medication.
Key PointThere are no paper prescriptions in the Saudi government healthcare system. Your prescription is entirely digital and tied to your Iqama number.
Getting a Prescription
At the doctor's office
Prescriptions are issued at government hospitals, primary health centers, and registered private clinics. Your doctor enters the prescription directly into Wasfaty during your consultation.
- Bring your Iqama or Saudi national ID to every appointment
- Your doctor enters medication details into the Wasfaty system
- You receive an SMS to the mobile number registered on your Iqama
- The SMS contains your unique prescription reference code
- Private hospital prescriptions may use a separate system - always ask
ImportantYour current Saudi mobile number must be registered on your Iqama. Update via Absher or visit an MOH service center if needed.
Your Prescription Code
What you will receive
Your prescription code is a unique reference number sent by SMS. It is tied to your identity and can only be dispensed against your Iqama - it cannot be transferred to anyone else. Valid for 30 days for regular medications.
Example SMS formatYour Wasfaty prescription is ready. Reference: WFT-2025-XXXXXXX. Valid until DD/MM/YYYY. Collect from any registered pharmacy with your Iqama.
Finding a Registered Pharmacy
Where to collect medication
Nahdi, Al-Dawaa, and Whites pharmacies are registered nationwide at all branches. Use our pharmacy finder above or look for the Wasfaty logo at the entrance.
- Government hospital pharmacies always accept Wasfaty prescriptions
- Nahdi, Al-Dawaa, and Whites are fully registered nationally
- Look for the Wasfaty logo at the pharmacy entrance
- Call ahead when travelling outside major cities
Collecting Your Medication
At the pharmacy counter
- Bring your Iqama or Saudi national ID - mandatory
- Show the pharmacist your prescription SMS or reference number
- The pharmacist scans your ID and verifies the prescription digitally
- They dispense the exact medication and quantity prescribed
- Government prescriptions are typically free or subsidised for insured patients
Useful ArabicAndi wasfaty = I have my prescription. Hal tatakallam inglizi? = Do you speak English?
Private vs Government Healthcare
How prescriptions differ
Most expats access healthcare through private hospitals covered by employer health insurance (CCHI). Private prescriptions can work differently from government Wasfaty prescriptions.
- Private hospitals may issue paper or app-based prescriptions - not always Wasfaty
- Your insurance card determines which pharmacies will accept your prescription
- Some medications require prior insurer approval before dispensing
- Check with your employer HR which hospitals are in your insurance network
Common Problems and Solutions
Troubleshooting
- No SMS received: Confirm your mobile number is linked to your Iqama via Absher or MOH service center
- Medication out of stock: Ask the pharmacist to check another branch or try a different registered pharmacy
- Code expired: Return to your doctor - they can reissue the prescription electronically
- Pharmacy won't accept: Confirm they are Wasfaty-registered - not all private pharmacies are enrolled
- Generic substitution: Pharmacists may dispense a generic equivalent - this is legal. Ask them to confirm same active ingredient