The Economic Cost of Language Disorders in Saudi Arabia

Language disorders are among the most common neurodevelopmental disabilities, yet their economic burden remains largely underestimated. This session will explore the long-term financial impact of language disorders on individuals, families, and society in Saudi Arabia. Findings from a recent study by the Faseeh Initiative estimate the lifetime economic burden at SAR 190 billion, driven by reduced earnings, increased dependence on welfare, and costly late interventions.

The discussion will highlight the cost per capita of language disorders, which can reach SAR 1.8 million in cases with no intervention. Comparatively, early intervention reduces this cost to SAR 474,000, saving over SAR 1.3 million per child. The return on investment (ROI) for early screening and intervention is 1:8, making it not just a developmental necessity but also an economically sound policy.

We will discuss cost-effective strategies for scaling early screening and intervention, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for inclusive education and healthcare.