A Review on Teledermatology in Saudi Arabia: Framework, Barriers, and Opportunities

Teledermatology has become an important tool for expanding access to dermatologic care, especially in geographically large countries such as Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia's digital transformation and the shortage of dermatologists in rural regions have created favorable conditions for the adoption of teledermatology. Several platforms now provide virtual dermatology consultations. This narrative review aimed to explore teledermatology's current status, acceptance, barriers, and future directions in Saudi Arabia. The literature indicates that both dermatologists and patients are generally receptive to teledermatology, particularly for follow-up care; however, concerns about the lack of physical examination and reduced interpersonal interaction persist. A SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis revealed that Saudi Arabia's strong digital infrastructure, high smartphone penetration, and alignment with Vision 2030 are major strengths supporting teledermatology expansion. Key weaknesses include regulatory and reimbursement gaps, limited digital literacy, and the lack of dermatology-specific guidelines. Opportunities lie in extending services to underserved areas and integrating artificial intelligence, whereas threats include cultural resistance, cybersecurity risks, and potential inequities in digital access. In conclusion, teledermatology in Saudi Arabia is rapidly developing and shows considerable promise; however, its sustainability will depend on targeted investment, regulatory reforms, and efforts to promote equitable access.